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Dragon X1 2017-2018 Snowboard Goggles Review

UPDATE: Check out our review of the 2018/2019 Dragon X1 here

The Dragon APX (Advanced Projects X) shook up the snowboard goggle market with its ‘frameless’ design. It eventually evolved into the Dragon X1, which holds the same focus on top tech and minimalist, sleek aesthetics.

“Lumalens is a major step up from what came before; a genuinely excellent bit of tech”

Front and centre of the 2017/2018 Dragon X1 snowboard goggle is the new Lumalens technology. Like most of the major goggle brands, Dragon have been working on a ‘high-definition’ lens that improves visuals whilst reducing eye fatigue. Lumalens is a major step up from what came before; a genuinely excellent bit of tech that will improve the experience of any level of snowboarder.

There are several different varieties available (eleven, all told) to suit every colour scheme and all kinds of weather, with a spare lens thrown into the bargain to make sure you’re always covered. Small plastic plugs run right around the lens, so when it’s time to make a change you just work your way around the frame to disconnect it – and the new lens clicks into place safely and securely.

It might not be the quickest system, but it’s still fairly hassle-free, and you’ll never doubt its reliability. For a bit of extra cash you can also opt for one of four Transitions lenses, which automatically change their tint as the clouds come and go.

“Built to last, the armoured venting delivers consistent airflow even after your millionth yard sale”

Whichever tint you opt for, subtle vents near the top of the spherical lens allow air to enter, preventing the ever-unwelcome goggle-fog. The lens itself has an anti-fog coating, and the combination of the two keeps your vision clear all day.

Air passes back out of the Dragon X1 through the armoured venting that runs along the top of the goggle. Built to last, this tough strip of perforated plastic delivers consistent airflow even after your millionth yard sale.

As nice to look at as they are to look through, the Dragon X1 still leads the way in wrapping breakthrough tech up in a neat, frameless package. If you like the sound of these but have a smaller face, not to worry; the Dragon X1s has all the same tech, but in a smaller frame.

Tester’s Verdict

Andrew Duthie – whitelines.com

“Frameless spherical designs are still my favourite, and the X1 is a stellar example – not quite as big or expensive as the X2, but still ticking all the right boxes.

“The X1 is flawless… comfy and easy to adjust, and looks great too”

I rode this with the pink-tinted Transitions lenses on a gloriously sunny day, and never felt any eye strain. When the sun dipped down and runs were partially shaded, it did feel like the lens was helping with the dramatic shifts in light when they happened.

I personally would still prefer to ride with a more specific bluebird lens and then swap to another when needed (especially as the Lumalens tech is so good), but if you’d rather keep things simple then Transitions definitely do help.

As for the rest of the X1, it’s flawless. The vents work a treat and clearly won’t let you down even after months of use, thanks to the armoured design. It’s comfy and easy to adjust, and looks great too.”

Trade Secrets

Jake Largess – Global Snow Marketing Manager, Dragon

The X1 is a perfect goggle for any occasion. Our patented frameless design coupled with an optically correct, injection-moulded spherical lens allows for unmatched clarity, peripheral vision and an eye catching look.

The Super Anti-Fog coating has been upgraded to be twice as effective, the triple-layer face foam fits like a dream, and the armoured venting prevents your goggles from filling up with snow.

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