A no-nonsense guide to Squad, Squad XL, Squad S, and more
Buying goggles shouldn’t be complicated - but somehow it always is. Sizes, lenses, face fits, helmet compatibility… suddenly you’re three tabs deep and still not sure what you actually need.
We stock a tight, well-chosen range of Smith goggles for a reason. They all do slightly different jobs, and once you know which one suits your face and riding style, the decision becomes very easy.
I’ve spent time with most of these on snow, so here’s a straight-up guide to help you pick the right pair - without overthinking it.
First things first: Smith goggles in general
Before we get into individual models, it’s worth saying this: Smith lenses are excellent.
Whether you’re riding in flat light, bright sun, or mixed conditions, their ChromaPop lenses genuinely make a difference. Contrast is better, terrain definition is clearer, and your eyes feel less fatigued at the end of the day.
So when choosing between Smith goggles, you’re not really choosing quality - you’re choosing fit, size, and style.
Smith Squad, the all-rounder
If there’s one goggle that works for the majority of riders, it’s the Smith Squad.
This is the sweet spot in the range. Medium fit, plenty of peripheral vision, and a frame that works with most helmets and face shapes. It’s simple, functional, and does exactly what you want it to do - day after day.
If you’re not sure where to start, start here.
Buy the Smith Squad if:
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you want a do-everything goggle
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you’ve got an average-sized face
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you value performance over fuss
Smith Squad XL, same goggle, more vision
The Squad XL is essentially the Squad turned up a notch. Same lens tech, same comfort, but with a larger frame and bigger field of view.
If you’ve ever tried goggles on and thought, “These feel a bit small,” the XL is probably your answer. It’s also a favourite with riders who like that modern, oversized look.
Buy the Squad XL if:
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you have a larger face
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you want maximum peripheral vision
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you like a bold, modern goggle style
Smith Squad S, for smaller faces (and kids)
The Squad S does exactly what it says on the tin. Same performance, same lens quality, just scaled down. my wife for example, has a tiny nose. This means goggles always slip down her face. the Squad S is her model.
This is ideal for:
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smaller adult faces
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teens
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riders who struggle with goggles sitting too low on their nose or pushing into their cheeks
A lot of people compromise with goggles that are too big - this one fixes that.
Buy the Squad S if:
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standard goggles feel bulky
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you want proper performance in a smaller fit
Smith Tribute, clean, simple, reliable
The Smith Tribute is a great option if you want something slightly more traditional in feel.
It’s comfortable, dependable, and easy to live with. Less about big frames and bold looks, more about doing the job well. A solid choice if you want Smith quality without chasing the latest trends.
Buy the Tribute if:
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you prefer a classic goggle shape
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you want comfort and clarity without fuss
Smith Transfer, budget-friendly, no nonsense
The Smith Transfer is proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a decent goggle.
It’s straightforward, comfortable, and ideal for:
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beginners
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indoor slopes
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spare or backup goggles
You still get Smith build quality and decent optics - just without premium extras.
Buy the Transfer if:
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you want a reliable goggle at a lower price
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you’re new to snowboarding or skiing
Smith Rally, compact and low-profile
The Smith Rally is a smaller, more compact goggle that sits closer to the face. It’s lightweight and understated, making it a good choice if you don’t want anything too bulky.
It’s especially popular with riders who like a clean, minimal setup.
Buy the Rally if:
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you want a low-profile fit
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you don’t like oversized goggles
Smith Blazer, classic style, modern comfort
The Smith Blazer brings a bit of old-school goggle style into the modern era.
It’s got a simple, timeless look, but still delivers the comfort and lens quality you’d expect from Smith. Great if you like gear that doesn’t scream for attention.
Buy the Blazer if:
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you like a classic aesthetic
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you want something simple that still performs
Still not sure? Here’s the shortcut
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Most people → Smith Squad
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Big faces / max vision → Squad XL
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Small faces → Squad S
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Classic & simple → Tribute or Blazer
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Budget / beginner → Transfer
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Low-profile look → Rally
If you’re stuck, drop us a message - we’ll happily help you choose the right fit.
Final thoughts
Good goggles make a bigger difference than people realise. When you can see clearly, you ride better, feel more confident, and enjoy the day more - simple as that.
Smith make some of the best goggles out there, and whichever model you go for, you’re getting quality optics and comfort. The key is choosing the right one for your face and riding style.
Hopefully this guide makes that decision a bit easier.
