A deep dive into the tech and features behind the Smith Optics epic Stash XL snowboard goggles.
- Price: $195 / €185
- Lens: Cylindrical
- Sizes: Large
- New for 2026/27 season: Yes
A deep dive into the tech and features behind the Smith Optics epic Stash XL snowboard goggles.
“What is it they say about size not mattering? Well, that doesn’t apply here.”
What is it they say about size not mattering? Well, that doesn’t apply here. The Stash XL takes Smith’s largest cylindrical lens and tweaks the frame to offer an insane FOV.
You value high-quality optics and prioritise being able to see as much of the mountain as possible. Seriously, I think you could see into next week with these things.
The boffins in the Smith lab struck gold when they developed ChromaPop, a lens tech that filters wavelengths of light to more clearly differentiate between colours. The result is a clearer, sharper visual that allows you to more easily spot changes in terrain so you can react faster, with more confidence. Paired with the semi-frameless, ultra-wide lens, you can think of wearing the Stash XL like watching Lord Of The Rings in high-def in an IMAX, rather than squinting at your phone screen as they charge Helms Deep.
With the Photochromic upgrade, you’re really getting the VIP treatment. The lenses react to changes in UV light, darkening when it’s sunnier, and lightening when the clouds roll in, so you don’t even have to faff about with swapping lenses as the conditions vary. Two big issues with most goggles is they fog up and they get scratched easily, but the Stash XL are rider-refined with a capital R and use anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings to nip these right in the bud.
“You can think of wearing the Stash XL like watching Lord Of The Rings in high-def in an IMAX…”
You can, of course, swap the lenses when you fancy it; Smith has a TONNE of options, with varying VLT depending on what conditions you think you’re most likely to encounter. Hell, collect ‘em all like Pokémon cards if you fancy it. This is done with Smith’s easy change lug system. Just pop the lens out from the frame and slot the new one in, like a jigsaw, but all the pieces are corners, easy as pie.
Smith has shaved down the frame for this season, reducing the overall weight and offering even more FOV. They use a responsive frame fit, using malleable materials to allow the goggle to mould to your face as you’re riding, and this is backed up by the cushy triple-layer face foam to prevent rub, hotspots and friction. Plus, the rimless design gives a great seamless fit, especially if you’re rocking a Smith lid.
Smith knows what they’re doing when it comes to goggles, and the tweaks they’ve made to the Stash XL ensure it’s one of the top-rated cylindrical lens offerings on the market. The huge FOV, the top-notch visual clarity and the sleek design make this fan-favourite a timeless classic.
“Unreal goggles. Huge FOV, very comfortable, no fogging even on a VERY moist, warm powder day with rain lower mountain and pow at the top, which is normally a sure-fire way to steam up. The photochromic lenses worked smoothly without me noticing any changes between different light conditions. Can’t recommend ‘em highly enough”
DANNNGGGGG a goggle with all the bells and whistles that won't leave you high and dry
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