Gear Review(s): Smith 4D MAG Goggles & Smith Level Helmet
[Ben Carpenter]
Vision: Smith MAG™ lens change system uses magnets for quick, easy lens changes
ChromaPop™ lenses enhance contrast and natural color to make the details pop
BirdsEye Vision™ clarifies not just your line, but the riders in your periphery
Fit / Integration: Designed for ultimate integration with Smith helmets for maximum comfort, venting and fog-free performanceQuickFit strap adjustment system lets you find the right fit fast
Ultra-wide, silicone-backed strap stays put
Three-layer DriWix face foam wicks moisture for a fog-free fit
AirEvac™ ventilation system integrates with Smith helmets for fog-free lenses
Medium fit; Available in Low Bridge Fit for faces with a lower nose bridge and/or a wide or high cheekbone shape
Review: The last pair of goggles I bought was close to 8 years ago. I’m a big believer in continuing to use gear until it fails completely on me and I am forced to buy a replacement. That said, I couldn’t deny that goggles and lens technology changed in recent years, improving both eye protection and visibility for the wearer. As an avid winter enthusiast, I decided it was time to look at some new goggles. I used the Smith Phenoms up until 2 years ago, when the frame cracked after I contacted a branch before I could react. Then I used my brother’s old Smith I/O and a pair of Zeal Optics goggles so old I couldn’t find a match on their website. So it was time for something new.
Since we’re talking new, why not try the newest from Smith, the 4D MAG goggles? Magnets in the frame that lock the lens in place but allow for easy switching, ChromaPop technology and BirdsEye Vision to enhance the visibility of the rider, and a wide strap around the back that keeps the goggles locked in place on your head. When I put them on, the first thing I noticed is the BirdsEye Vision. It broadens the width and height of your field of view by bending the lens a little around the edges, which proved to be distracting at first as it warps your peripheral vision. It also kept the periphery in crisp detail even when I wasn’t looking directly into it. On the hill, this was great for me and I was able to adjust to the bend in the lens and make the most of it. However, there is a stark line in your vision where the bend happens, which proved to be too much for my brother and sister riding with me - they noticed it immediately and were uncomfortable with it in their vision after less than one run.
Key Takeaways: The additional field of view is wonderful and the clarity provided by the lens technology is a huge improvement. In comparison to Zeal Optics Lookout goggles, I preferred the Smith fit and vision. While clarity is comparable between the two, the additional peripheral view was the difference, as it is a wider field of view and clearer around the edges. Easy to switch lenses make these ideal for anyone looking to ski all day in any conditions, or even people just out for a couple laps in the afternoon.
Smith Level Helmet
Tech Specs (from website)
Regulator climate control allows easy, one-handed vent adjustment.
20 vents
Removable Snapfit SL2 ear pads add warmth and are audio-chip compatible.
Aleck™ audio systems compatible.
Weight (Size M, MIPS®): 19 oz / 550 g
Hybrid shell construction blends a durable exterior with a lightweight in-molded shell for durability where you need it most while keeping the helmet light.
Zonal Koroyd® coverage for lightweight, energy-absorbing and ventilated impact protection
MIPS® Brain Protection System reduces rotational forces caused by angled impacts to the head
Select colorways offered without MIPS® system
Certification: ASTM F 2040, CE EN 1077:2007 CLASS B
Review: Similar to my goggles, I have not replaced my helmet in close to 5 years - if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it. However, technology continues to improve, and it seems apt to update safety equipment to protect my head given my predisposition towards smacking into things.
The Smith Level is larger than I expected, thicker too, due to the Zonal Koroyd system and MIPS system in the helmet. Koroyd is the honeycomb collapsible structure to absorb direct impact and MIPS allows the helmet to move across the head to absorb angled impacts. Despite the size and newness of the helmet, it fits true to size and is remarkably breathable, even with the vents closed.
The Smith Level sat high up on my head, a strange feeling in comparison to the old Vantage I wore for a few seasons. After a few days of wearing this helmet, I got used to the profile and barely noticed a difference. It looked a bit bigger on my head, but it felt and performed similarly to a sleeker design. I definitely recommend this helmet for people skiing in-bounds terrain heavily and maybe a little bit of backcountry exploration. The primary use of this helmet is definitely tailored to riding lifts.
Key Takeaways: While the high-profile look and feel of the helmet was strange and a little bit much for me, it is a welcome tradeoff for the improved safety features offered by the MIPS and Koroyd systems. In combination with the warmer ear pads and array of vents across the top of the helmet, this helmet is a great option for in-bounds skiers who will be on the lift in any conditions and weather.
