Lens

From microscopes to rifle sights, Zeiss is one of the leading brands in optical equipment. In the fight against crap goggles, that’s a pretty good cornerman to have. Giro lenses feature Zeiss’ VIVID tech, which delivers all the clarity and contrast you could ask for. They’re also injection-moulded to ensure there’s no distortion.

The Giro Method boast a classic cylindrical lens, featuring ‘EXV’ (Expansion View Technology). As the name suggests, the lens provides extra peripheral awareness by moving the frame closer to your face so that it doesn’t encroach on your field of vision.

Changing the lens is a breeze; it’s held in place with notches all along the minimalist frame. Simply pull the top of the frame up, and out she pops. There are thirteen lenses from which to choose, so you’re bound to find the right one for your needs. Plus the Method comes with two when you buy ‘em, so you’ll be all set for a wide variety of conditions from day one.

“Giro lenses feature Zeiss’ VIVID tech, which delivers all the clarity and contrast you could ask for”

Frame and Straps

It doesn’t really matter how much clarity the lens tech delivers if it gets fogged up all the time. The good news is that’s not a concern here, thanks to Giro’s ‘EVAK’ venting. A solid yet springy lattice of moisture-proof material runs across the top of the frame, allowing damp air to pass on out whilst keeping the elements at bay. This one-way traffic is the key to a clear lens, and it works like a charm.

That’s the frame’s main USP; elsewhere it’s fit for purpose without bowling us over. The triple-layer face foam is comfy, but these days that’s the minimum requirement for a decent pair of googs. The frame itself is nice and light, and fairly easy to manipulate with gloves on when it’s time to pop the lens out.

Wrapping things up is a pretty nifty strap-change system. You can keep on using your frame and lens, but swap to a different Giro strap as and when you fancy. With everything from plain black to Fender collabs to something apparently known as ‘Urchin Cloud Dust’, there’s truly something for everyone.

“The lens provides extra peripheral awareness by moving the frame closer to your face”

Roundup

Giro probably still has more name recognition in cycling than it does in snowboarding, but make no mistake – it’s one of the heaviest hitters in goggle tech. With the Giro Method, you’ve got proof that it’s not just about practicality, either; this is a fine-looking specimen with visuals that can be customised in myriad ways to fit your needs.

The full package, then; and if you’re in the market for a helmet as well, you can always go double Giro for a seamless fit.

Pros:

• Top-tier visuals – it’s like snowboarding in 8K
• That venting system really is killer. Giro could offer a money-back guarantee on lens-fogging

Cons:

• While more than serviceable, the lens change tech is a little behind the cutting edge these days

Buy the Giro Method: £145 at Blue Tomato UK 

Buy the Giro Method: €160 at Blue Tomato EU