Skiing is as enjoyable a spot as it’s exhilarating. There’s something about zipping about the slopes that offer a sense of excitement and freedom unlike any other. One of the most important pieces of skiing gear is ski helmets, which not only protect your head from injury but also the cold. If you wear glasses, then you have to consider additional aspects when it comes to choosing ski helmets. Luckily, there are many options for the best ski helmet for glasses wearers in the market today. When snowboarding or skiing, the two many issues for you as a glass wearer is fogging and the glasses fitting comfortably beneath the helmet. What’s more, the cold and the changes in temperatures don’t help either. Also, you might be offered the commonest piece of advice of wearing contacts, but you might not be entirely comfortable.
However, you don’t need to compromise in today’s times. Besides there being options for helmets where the glasses sit comfortably beneath, you also have another choice – helmets with visors. So, keeping everything in mind, here are the 13 best ski helmets for glasses wearers.
How To Choose The Best Ski Helmets For Glasses Wearers?
The first obvious question you’ll ask is – why wear a helmet at all? For one, not wearing it puts you at greater risk of severe injury. No matter how advanced a skier you are, the same cannot be said for others. So, wearing ski helmets is all about protecting your own head. Moreover, the last thing you want is a brain freeze on the slopes due to the cold. If this doesn’t convince you, then ski helmets are pretty much compulsory in most terrain parks and the World’s Best Ski Resorts! So, what to look for while choosing ski helmets, especially if you’re wearing glasses? Read on.
If you’re starting out with skiing, then we’d recommend you also look at the Best Ski Helmets For Beginners.
Safety
The first and foremost aspect of any ski helmet is safety and protection. One of the best safety innovations in ski helmets today is the ‘MIPS’ or Multi-directional Impact Protection System. Basically, it’s a scientifically-designed additional sleeve structure fitted between the shock-absorbent foam and outer shell. In an unfortunate crash, MIPS helps reduce the dangerous rotational forces to your head by dampening the impact force. So, when you fall off your skis or snowboard, you’re likely to fall at an angle. So, the helmet transfers the impact energy onto itself and not your grey matter.
Visors
Most of the good ski helmets for glasses wearers are the ones that come with visors. The visor should keep your eyes away from obstructions like snowflakes, the glare of the snow or the sun, etc. It should be robust enough for protecting your glasses and face, in case something untoward happens.
Fitting and adjustment
Ski helmets, undoubtedly, need to fit very well or they’re not exactly effective. Usually, the helmet’s adjustment system comes into play, which includes the fastenings, chin straps, inner adjustment layers, and even the sizes they differ. To get the best fit, consult the size chart, and measure your head’s circumference before purchasing. Generally, ski helmets are sized like S/M, M/L, etc. to fit all types and kinds of head sizes. What’s more, you might have to try on a good number of helmets before you find the perfect one.
Ventilation
Nobody in this world likes a sweaty head, notwithstanding whether you’re a beginner skier or an expert. The best part is that helmets today come with excellent ventilation systems that allow your head to breathe. At the same time, they maintain the structural strength of the helmet as well. We’d recommend that you look for helmets that have adaptable vents that are ideal for all seasons.
Head Rachel Snow-Sports Helmet (CU)
13
The comfortable, well-vented, and lightweight Head Rachel is one of the best ski helmets for glasses wearers. It’s an excellent, yet subtle way to hop on to the visor program. The visor on this helmet works extremely well over glasses, leaving enough space in between for movement. It pivots on elastic cords, lending the feel of goggles. What’s more, the adjustable BOA dial tightens the fit around the entire head, not making you feel as if you’re wearing separate items. It even sells polarised versions for men (Radar) and women (Rachel Polar). Moreover, the brand sells a whole lot of visors for different conditions depending on your eye and glasses needs. if that wasn’t enough, they’re easy to swap in without any tools.
There are a lot of good things about this helmet. It boasts a lightweight construction and adjustable venting ideal for all-day comfort. Finally, rounding everything up is the magnetic buckle, which is easy to use even with gloved hands.
Pros:
- Excellent for over-glasses use.
- The brand sells a huge range of visors for different needs, which are easy to fit in and take off.
- Snug, comfy fit.
Cons:
- None.
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Atomic Savor Visor Stereo (404)
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The Atomic Savor Visor Stereo is one of the best over-the-glasses helmets sans breaking the bank. It offers one of the best values for a top-end, visored look. The visor on the helmet has not one or two, but nine layers of mirror coating! It not only perfect balances contrast and colors but also protects your eyes from fatigue and glare both. Moreover, the anti-scratch/anti-fog and hydrophobic treatments on the visor lens help keep the vision clear at all times. So, even if you’re wearing glasses, your vision is never hindered. It even comes with a second set of visor hinges that give your glasses extra space. Moreover, the three layers of facial foam help seal out harsh elements.
What’s more, the ski helmet also features a whole boatload of other technical and safety features. These include the 3D shape of the cleverly-crafted liner, which creates crumple zones for additional protection. The washable and removable antimicrobial lining keeps odors at bay. All this is sealed in a hard, durable plastic outer shell. It even comes with a lens cloth and helmet bag to keep your helmet long-lasting.
Pros:
- The visor comes in nine layers of mirror coating.
- The second set of visor hinges leaves space for glasses.
- The visor is hydrophobic, anti-fog, and anti-scratch, keeping your vision clear.
Cons:
- None.
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Salomon Driver S Helmet (CU)
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The Salomon Driver S Helmet is one of the most unique ski helmets for glasses wearers. It features a cat. S2 visor with an innovative Motion Shield system ensuring all-day comfort. There’s even an easy changing lens system which means you don’t spend a lot of time changing visors either. Salomon’s Custom Dial Fit System furthers the fit and comfort, allowing you to lock it in the up/down position. This also allows you to keep enough space between the visor and your glasses. Moreover, there’s a lot of range on size adjustment, making for one of the most progressive visor designs ever.
The helmet is built using the EPS4D technology for superior shock absorption, making for one of the highest safety standards ever. The hybrid construction makes the helmet suitable for the most intense skiing or snowboarding activities, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier. Finally, the special adjustable dial at the back can be rotated until you find the right, most comfortable setting.
Pros:
- EPS4D construction.
- Best over-the-glasses helmet.
- Easy lens change system
Cons:
- Some users have reported snow getting into the helmet.
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Bollé Backline Visor Premium (404)
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Performance and function come together in a superior style in the premium Bollé Backline Visor Premium. The field view through the visor is superb and is wider than any ski goggles you could possibly wear. So, even with your glasses, your vision is anything but hindered. Moreover, the visor is abrasion-resistant with an anti-fog coating, and can easily be changed by unscrewing the two aluminum dials on both sides. Plus, there are a variety of lens categories and colors that are compatible with this helmet, along with a photochromic option too! So, you can darken or lighten your lens depending on the climate conditions. It’s no wonder that it’s considered as one of the Best Ski Helmets With Visors.
There’s a lot more to love about this helmet. It’s not only well-constructed but also comes with a hypoallergenic lining, rear dial adjustment, removable ear pads, and an injected ABS shell. Moreover, eight underside vents and a two-layer face foam provides a secure and comfortable fit. The ratchet system chin strap is easily adjustable, and the shell complete protection.
Pros:
- Excellent visor with lots of lens categories and color options.
- Superb build quality.
Cons:
- A bit on the expensive side.
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Bern Watts EPS Thin Shell (CU)
9
The Bern Watts EPS Thin Shell is one of the coolest value ski helmets for glasses wearers. The visor blends both function and form, and easily allows you to wear spectacles beneath it. The visor doesn’t touch the glasses, nor does it hinder your field of vision in any way. What’s more, the air vents prevent the glasses from fogging, and your head from heating up. If that wasn’t enough, the helmet’s signature shape allows it to sit around your glasses more ergonomically than others.
The Watts’ thin ABS hard shell along with the single-impact, light EPS foam is what protects your head so well. The micro-adjust ratchet at the rear allows you to dial in the perfect fit. At 17 ounces (0.5kg), it’s one of the lightest helmets ever, while keeping you warm and fitting like a glove.
Pros:
- Presence of MIPS.
- Earpads provide warmth on cold days.
- Excellent ventilation.
- Lightweight.
Cons:
- None.
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Oakley Mod 5
8
The Oakley Mod 5 is not just an excellent over-the-glasses ski helmet with a visor but is also one of the Best Ski Helmets For Women. Besides coming with two visors, it boasts a Modular Brim System which allows you to swap a variety of brims for getting the perfect fit with your glasses. The helmet comes with a large and a small brim, which can easily be changed with a screwdriver. Furthermore, the excellent ventilation system keeps the visors fog-free, leaving your field of vision clear. The best part? The visor is removable too!
The Mod 5 also integrates MIPS for complete protection. The BOA retention system renders a superb fit and comfort, and the ventilation system traps in warmth well. The hybrid construction doesn’t leave it a light helmet, but it’s strong, durable, and impact-resistant too.
Pros:
- Modular Brim System to make it easy to wear with glasses.
- Excellent ventilation system with a quick-flip adjuster.
- Magnetic buckles for one-hand operation.
- Available in multiple color variants.
Cons:
- Heavy.
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Oakley MOD 3 (CU)
7
If the Oakley Mod 5 is perfect for women, then the Oakley Mod 3 is one of the Best Ski Helmets For Men. What’s more, it’s also one of the best ski helmets for glasses wearers. Just like other helmets from the brand, this one also features the signature Modular Brim System. It allows changing the size of the brim/visor at the front of the helmet. So, it makes enough space for your spectacles which you can wear with the helmet comfortably. Moreover, the ventilation system keeps both your head cool and your glasses mist and fog-free.
Besides having a robust and durable ABS and In-Mold exterior, the Oakley MOD 3 is one of the stylish and sleekest helmets. The magnetic Fidlock buckle strap makes it very easy to latch even with one hand, even when you’re wearing mittens or gloves. Finally, the inner liner is both washable and removable, while the comfy ear cups provide ear protection and warmth.
Pros:
- Available in 19 colors.
- Easy-to-handle Fidlock magnetic buckles.
- MIPS integrated.
- BOA adjustment system.
Cons:
- Practically none!
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Smith Vantage MIPS
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The Smith Vantage MIPS is one of the most unique ski helmets since it’s one of the only helmets with both a visor or no-visor option. The visor option is equally one-of-a-kind – it’s smaller compared to other helmets. However, that doesn’t deter the glasses-wearing action or your field of vision and adds a cool aesthetic at the same time. Moreover, the visor does a superb job at protecting your eyes from the glare of the sun and the snow, as well as water, fog, mist, etc. Finally, the venting system does an incredible job of keeping your glasses de-fogged on wet or really hot days.
The Smith Vantage takes the cake, baker, and bakery for its insanely long list of special features. The hybrid helmet features a soft interior lining that wicks moisture effectively, while the foam improves comfort on-the-go. It also has many adjustable vents that keep it cool, while the strong clip keeps them in place. Finally, the helmet is even audio compatible, in case you’re a music aficionado.
Pros:
- Available in 19 designs and colors.
- Offers both comfort and performance.
- Soft interior lining keeps you cool and comfortable.
Cons:
- Very expensive.
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Pret Cynic X (CU)
5
There’s no surprise that ski helmets are expensive. So, if you’re a glasses wearer and are looking for a relatively inexpensive ski helmet, then the Pret Cynic X is perfect. The visor is not as high-end as, say the Bollé Backline, but it does the job of protecting your face with your glasses. Moreover, the 12 vents offer great ventilation and don’t allow the spectacles to fog up. Its easy-to-use fit system is admirably comparable to a BOA design and helps achieve the right comfort of fit you want while wearing your glasses.
There’s a lot to like about the Pret Cynic X. The helmet is off to a great start with a wool-blend liner, which makes it one of the most comfortable interiors for less than $200. Although it doesn’t have the Boa design, its fit system is easy to use. Even though its ventilation isn’t adjustable, its 12-vent fixed system with a few open/close interior flaps regulates temperature well. The in-mold build keeps the weight in check at less than a pound (0.45 kg) for the medium-sized pick. Plus, the helmet also has additional sturdiness thanks to well-placed polycarbonate panels that thicken the shell sections. Finally, even though appearance is subjective, you’ll definitely like Pret Cynic’s design.
Pros:
- Comfortable and warm wool-blend liner.
- In-mold construction keeps it durable and lightweight.
- Available in many colors and designs.
Cons:
- The vents are non-adjustable.
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POC Obex Spin Helmet (CU)
4
The half-shell POC Obex Spin Helmet is another great over-the-spectacles ski helmet. The helmet features a visor/brim that acts as the perfect shield for your glasses and your face. It not only protects the glasses but also your vision from glares, snow, and water. What’s more, it has a superb venting system that doesn’t fog or mist up your glasses either. Rounding out the excellent, comfy fit is the adjustable fit system. It allows you to adjust the helmet according to the comfort you see fit, as well as secures evenly it around the head.
One of the other good things about the Obex its integration with the eponymous SPIN technology, which is the brand’s version of a MIPS. Moreover, the Spin employs cushioned pads that meld seamlessly into the lining. An in-mold design and a hard plastic yet thin exterior offer superior protection.
Pros:
- In-built Bluetooth makes it audio compatible.
- Adjustable vents.
- High-quality EPS liner.
- Fixed clip for glasses.
Cons:
- Some users mentioned comfort issues.
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Odoland Ski Helmet
3
The Odoland Snow Ski Helmet is one of the best ski helmets for glasses wearers. It features a visor that sits securely atop your glasses with a good amount of space between them. Moreover, it ensures a secure fit and it allows the spectacles to move or shift around either. Furthermore, the 12 vents not only optimize airflow within the helmet but also prevent the visor from blurring or fogging up. If that wasn’t enough, the visor even keeps harsh elements like snow and rain away from your field of vision.
There’s a lot more to like about this Odoland helmet. It features a comfortable and durable design. The inner lining and earmuffs lend comfort and are easily removable for washing. Moreover, the helmet can even absorb shocks and keep you safe, and it comes with a free carrying bag.
Pros:
- Of the 12 vents, 6 are completely adjustable for comfort.
- Highly durable and lightweight.
- Detachable lining.
- Adjustable chin strap.
Cons:
- None.
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Giro Essence MIPS Women’s Snow Helmet
2
One of the best visor helmets for over-the-glasses use is the Giro Essence MIPS Women’s Snow Helmet. It features a stylish, smart, and protective shield design that’ll keep your glasses covered well sans blocking your field of vision. Moreover, it protects your face and your glasses from the harsh elements sans moving your glasses around or smudging your make up. It’s why this helmet is a favorite of sorts with women skiers who wear glasses. Moreover, the Stack Vent technology keeps your glasses mercifully fog-free.
The Giro Essence works well on multiple counts. It boasts a thermostat control that regulates airflow within the helmet, allowing you to adjust to different environments. Plus, the Form-Fit system is easily adjustable, while the MIPS helps protect your head in case of impact. Finally, the in-mold design is low-profile and tough and offers complete protection.
Pros:
- Available in eight colors and designs.
- The form-fit system allows for an excellent custom fit.
- The stylish integrated visor keeps face safe from elements sans touching your classes.
Cons:
- None, practically.
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Giro Vue MIPS Snow Helmet
1
The Giro Vue MIPS Snow Helmet is one of the best ski helmets for glasses wearers. The Vue is the ultimate helmet and goggle (or glasses, for that matter) combination wrapped in a lightweight, modern, and sleek package. The helmet features a convertible visor that shields your glasses without banging against it as you ski. Moreover, it offers protection from harsh elements including rain, snow, and even harmful UV light. At the same time, it has an exceptionally wide field of vision that boasts impressive optical clarity. The adjustable vent system prevents your glasses from fogging up inside the visor too.
The helmet has a lot of other impressive features, like the MIPS technology that protects your head from impact. The anti-odor inner padding combined with the excellent in-mold construction makes the helmet both comfortable and lightweight.
Pros:
- Excellent build.
- Padded inner keeps the face comfortable.
- Vents keep the head cool and ventilated.
Cons:
- Slightly on the expensive side.
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