Product Details
Color Details
Size DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the Smith I/O and the I/O MAG?
How do I change lenses on the Smith I/O goggles?
What is ChromaPop lens technology and how does it work?
Are the Smith I/O goggles compatible with helmets?
Can I wear the Smith I/O goggles over prescription glasses?
What lens tints come with the Smith I/O goggles?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Smith Optics Snow Goggles M00638 I/O Goggles stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Faster magnetic lens-change system with clips and magnets
- Same excellent ChromaPop optics and spherical lens as the standard I/O
- Available in more size options (S, standard, XL, Low Bridge)
- More affordable entry point ($100-165 vs $208-223)
- Still features ChromaPop lens technology
- Cylindrical lens design (some prefer the look)
- Superior vertical field of view, especially looking down
- BirdsEye Vision lens technology for enhanced peripheral vision
- Improved lever-based lens-change system (easier than I/O MAG clips)
Read the full comparison
Smith I/O vs. I/O MAG vs. Squad vs. 4D MAG: Which Goggle Is Right for You?
The Smith I/O sits in a sweet spot within Smith's goggle lineup—offering the same premium ChromaPop optics and spherical lens design as the pricier I/O MAG, but with a traditional lens-change system that keeps the price more accessible. Here's how it compares to the most common alternatives.
I/O vs. I/O MAG: Is the Magnetic System Worth $60-80 More?
The I/O MAG ($270-305) is essentially the same goggle as the standard I/O, but with magnets and clips for faster lens changes. Forum discussions reveal mixed opinions: some skiers love the convenience, while others say the standard I/O's clip system is "easy enough" and not worth the premium. One experienced user noted, "I wouldn't upgrade to the mag unless they were the same price." The MAG is worth considering if you frequently swap lenses mid-day, but if you typically stick with one lens per outing, the standard I/O delivers identical optical performance for less money.
I/O vs. Squad: Spherical vs. Cylindrical Lens
The Squad ($100-165) is Smith's more affordable option, using a cylindrical lens instead of the I/O's spherical design. Both feature ChromaPop technology, but the I/O's spherical lens provides better peripheral vision and a more premium, near-frameless look. The Squad fits slightly larger and has a more traditional, partially-framed aesthetic. If budget is your primary concern and you prefer a cylindrical lens, the Squad is excellent. But the I/O's spherical optics and wider field of view justify the price difference for most serious skiers.
I/O vs. 4D MAG: Premium Performance at a Premium Price
The 4D MAG ($340-464) is Smith's flagship goggle with BirdsEye Vision technology that extends your field of view, particularly when looking down at your bindings or checking your line. It also features an improved lever-based lens-change system that testers prefer over the I/O MAG's clips. However, some users report optical distortion when looking down through the curved lens. For most skiers, the I/O offers the best balance of optical quality, features, and value. The 4D MAG is worth the splurge only if you ski frequently and want the absolute maximum field of view.
Bottom line: The Smith I/O is the smart choice for skiers who want premium ChromaPop optics and proven durability without paying for features they won't use. It's been a staple at resorts worldwide for good reason—it simply works, season after season.
At a Glance
Smith I/O MAG Goggles
Pros:
- Faster magnetic lens-change system with clips and magnets
- Same excellent ChromaPop optics and spherical lens as the standard I/O
- Available in more size options (S, standard, XL, Low Bridge)
- Includes two ChromaPop lenses and lens protector sock
Cons:
- Significantly more expensive ($270-305 vs $208-223)
- Lens changes still require two hands and removing from face
- Magnetic clips can break if wrong technique is used
- Not worth the upgrade if you rarely swap lenses mid-day
Smith Squad Goggles
Pros:
- More affordable entry point ($100-165 vs $208-223)
- Still features ChromaPop lens technology
- Cylindrical lens design (some prefer the look)
- Slightly larger fit than the I/O
- Available with MAG lens-change system (Squad MAG)
Cons:
- Cylindrical lens instead of spherical (slightly less premium optics)
- Partially framed design vs. near-frameless I/O
- Standard Squad has more difficult lens changes than I/O
- Smaller field of view compared to I/O's spherical design
Smith 4D MAG Goggles
Pros:
- Superior vertical field of view, especially looking down
- BirdsEye Vision lens technology for enhanced peripheral vision
- Improved lever-based lens-change system (easier than I/O MAG clips)
- Smith's top-tier offering with most advanced features
- More comfortable fit according to testers
Cons:
- Significantly more expensive ($340-464 vs $208-223)
- Some users report distortion when looking down through curved lens
- Overkill for casual or occasional skiers
- The I/O's spherical lens may have better optical clarity straight-ahead