VALLON Freebirds Snow Goggles Reviewed in 2025

In-Depth Look at VALLON Lens Technology

The lens technology in the Freebirds ski and snowboard goggles is solid overall. The VALLON lens is developed with Carl Zeiss lens technology. Carl Zeiss was a German industrialist who developed fine optical instruments; now, reputable companies use his innovative lens technology. The lens is really clear and has great contrast.

The VALLON lens is constructed of polycarbonate (PC). PC is the best ski goggle lens material due to its impact-resistant, shatterproof, and scratch-resistant properties. PC is used for most ski goggle lenses and sports sunglasses.

Combining a brown-tinted lens and anti-reflective mirror coating creates excellent clarity and depth perception. Due to the brown tint blocking blue light, these goggles perform well on a bluebird day.

However, something noticeable was the mirrored lens reflected the frame slightly. Also, glare was picked up across the lens if the light shined from certain angles.

VALLON claims to maximize peripheral vision due to the spherical lens shape. However, the closest comparison is to the cylindrical Smith Squad goggles, which have a noticeably more expansive peripheral vision than the Freebirds. The Freebird’s frame can be seen in the users’ peripheral vision from the side and top of the goggles. When snowboarding, using the side and top of the frame is vital, so it was disappointing to be distracted by the frame while riding.

VALLON does make the Freebirds with the interchangeable lens option. This is valuable due to variable light conditions. A low-light lens option during storm days will improve your vision and keep you safer. VALLON offers the opportunity to buy an accompanying low-light lens for $40 at checkout.

Goggle Frame and Strap Analysis

The VALLON Freebirds snow goggles are designed with suitable materials for protecting skiers and snowboarders. The Freebirds fit securely during high-impact activities; they provide protection during every phase of the turn. The unisex fit of the goggles is medium to large.

The frame is made of Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU). The TPU Freebirds frame is flexible, durable, and impact-resistant and keeps its properties in low temperatures. This material is ideal for snow goggle frames.

Different face shapes will find these goggles comfortable due to their flexibility. However, people with low-bridge faces will find these most comfortable. As someone with a high-bridge face, the goggles slipped down and pinched the end of my nose. It helped if I tightened the goggles and secured them in place.

The inside of the goggles is lined with a soft triple-layer foam. This material feels good against the face and does not cause discomfort. Even if you are sweating, the material does a good job of wicking instead of sticking. The foam contours to your face, providing a more secure fit.

The Freebirds goggle strap is made of Nylon with silicone on the inside. The silicone helps keep the goggles in place whether you are wearing the goggles over or under your helmet. The strap is also adjustable, which creates size versatility.

What Keeps the Fog Away

If you grew up skiing in the 90s, fog in your goggles seemed to accumulate at remarkable rates. Today, the VALLON Freebirds do a fantastic job keeping the fog away. A few key features contribute to their superb anti-fog performance in all weather conditions.

First, the ventilation design of the goggles is superior. They have just enough vents to keep fog away but mapped out not to let too much wind in. The vents on top of the goggles are exceptionally compatible with standard helmets like the Smith Method Mips helmet.

Second, the anti-fog coating on the Freebirds helps prevent fogging. Anti-fog coating is on most modern goggles and is made of a hydrophilic coating that prevents droplets from splitting into fog. On receipt, pull back the plastic film to reveal VALLON’s high-quality Zeiss lenses with anti-fog coating.

Last, VALLON uses a dual-lens technology. Double-layered lenses are known not to fog as fast as single-layered lenses. Virtually all ski goggles made today have dual-lens technology.

Value

VALLON offers a good product for half the price of the most technologically advanced goggles. Many ski goggles are sitting well above $250, so for $169, users are curious what their performance is like.

After testing, the value of these goggles meets the price point. However, the performance does not match the Anon M5 or  Smith I/O Mag goggles, which is understandable due to the different prices. Although there are a few cons, the pros outweigh them. If you are collecting gear with a budget in mind, the VALLON Freebirds should be a heavy contender.

If you are looking for a much cheaper option, the Wildhorn Roca goggles are in the two digits. However, Wildhorn’s lens technology is not as good as the Freebirds.

We Recommend these VALLON Ski Goggles

The VALLON Freebirds are quality ski goggles at a sensible price. The Freebirds universally perform well in all weather. And if you snag an extra lens, you will be prepared for all lighting conditions. But it is annoying that a second lens isn’t automatically included.

The biggest pros of the Freebirds defeat the cons. The contrast and clarity of the Zeiss lens is excellent. When it comes to keeping fog away, these goggles are top contenders. The frame and lens materials provide superior protection. And, of course, the price point helps.

However, the cons of the Freebirders should be weighed when purchasing. The frame is slightly visible in the user’s peripheral vision compared to more expensive goggle options. The lens can pick up a glare or internal reflection occasionally. Last, the goggles can slide down and pinch the nose a bit on a high bridge face.