snow goggles cleaning guide

Snow goggles are an essential part of any skier’s or snowboarder’s setup. Not only do they protect your eyes from snow, wind, rain, and harmful UV rays, but they also help you read the terrain—spotting ice patches, changes in elevation, and potential obstacles before it’s too late.

Whether you only break out your goggles a few times a year for a big trip out West or you’re riding laps at your local terrain park every week, proper care and maintenance can help your goggles last for many seasons. With multiple components like interchangeable lenses, foam padding, straps, and frames, each part needs a little TLC to stay in top shape.

Let’s break down exactly how to clean and store your goggles so you don’t find yourself buying a new pair every winter.

TLC: Tender Lens Care.

After a day on the slopes, start by giving the outside of your lens a quick rinse. This helps remove snow, dirt, or debris that could scratch the lens during cleaning. Once rinsed, allow the goggles to air dry. If you’re in a hurry, gently breathing onto the lens can help speed up the process.

When the lens is completely dry, use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the exterior. If you don’t have one handy, your soft goggle case works just as well. Avoid paper towels or regular towels—they tend to leave lint behind and can cause micro-scratches over time.

Whatever you do, don’t wipe your goggles with your jacket sleeve, gloves, or random fabric. Even if it feels soft, it can permanently damage the lens. Also, skip chemical cleaners or household products entirely—they can ruin lens coatings and anti-fog treatments.

Cleaning the Inside of the Lens

The inside of the lens is even more delicate. Only clean it when it’s completely dry, and gently press away smudges using a microfiber cloth or goggle bag. Never use water, abrasive materials, or cleaning products on the inside of the lens.

Cleaning the Other Components

Your goggles are more than just the lens, and the rest of the parts deserve attention too.

Frame & exterior: A soft cloth, microfiber towel, or even an old toothbrush works well for removing dirt and grime. Just be sure nothing you use is rough or abrasive.
Foam padding: This part requires a gentle touch. Lightly dab the foam with a microfiber-like material to remove sweat or residue. Avoid harsh rubbing or chemicals, as these can cause the foam to break down over time.

Safe Storage for the Long Haul

How you store your goggles during the off-season is just as important as how you clean them.

If your goggles came with a soft case, a great option is to nestle them inside your helmet, following the curve of the helmet shell. This helps protect them from being crushed or bumped while packed away.

Even better? A hard case. If your goggles came with one, definitely use it. If not, investing in a hard case is well worth it—especially if you travel frequently. Hard cases provide the best protection whether you’re flying or packing the car full of gear.

Mind the Climate

Temperature and humidity matter more than you might think. Avoid storing your goggles (and other snow gear) in hot, damp environments like unregulated garages or sheds. Excess heat and moisture can damage lenses, foam, and straps over time. Instead, store your gear in a cool, dry place with stable temperatures.

It’s also a good idea to check on your gear once or twice during the off-season. Catching damage early gives you time to replace or repair items before the snow starts falling again.

Final Tips: Invest Smart

Taking good care of your ski or snowboard goggles will keep them performing well for years—but having options helps too. If possible, invest in multiple lenses (or even multiple pairs of goggles). Different lenses perform better in different conditions:

Dark lenses for bright, bluebird days
Amber or low-light lenses for cloudy conditions
Clear lenses for night skiing or storms

Do your research and choose goggles and lenses that match the conditions you ride most often. Your eyes will thank you.

Smith Squad Goggles ChromaPop Lens

Oakley Line Miner Clear

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