Someday, someone (maybe even a sales person) is going to try to tell you, "These are the best motorcycle goggles and you've gotta have them. I wouldn't ride without them." Well, that might be true for that individual but they may not be the best ones for you. Finding the right pair of goggles for you is what's important.
Finding the right goggle for you means considering some of the most fundamental features first. After making sure that the goggles meet safety standards, consider other attributes such as size. We often hear from customers who say something like "I need motorcycles goggles for a big head because I have a really big head." Or conversely, we hear some bikers say, "I need small motorcycle goggles because I like them to fit just around my eye sockets." This is super important to start with, especially if you don't fall in the range of an average head size. By the time you start wearing a motorcycle goggle, you'll know if you fall way outside the range of what is typical.
Now that you know whether you need a large motorcycle goggle or a smaller, more compact one, consider some of the other features. One of the most important features for goggles and motorcycle sunglasses is good peripheral vision. Always maximize you peripheral visibility. Although this may seem obvious to you, really think about it when you are looking at the design of the goggle or when you are trying it on in the store. Can you check you blind spot easily and completely? Does the design of the goggle interfere with your visibility? Some riders have less range of motion and find it difficult to turn their head sufficiently so good peripheral vision becomes even more important. Although most goggles are naturally a wrap-style goggle, some are designed with a nostalgic look that may have sides that project further out which can interfere with side vision. When you try on a goggle or purchase one online, just image riding down the freeway or city street and do a quick check of your peripheral vision.
One of most surprising aspects of helping customers find the right motorcycle eyewear is that people have strong opinions about foam padding. But, after some consideration, it makes sense as it is an important part of riding comfort. There are two main categories for foam padding: Dense foam and soft foam. Dense foam, by design, tends to be more durable and lasting than its softer counterpart. The downside, as I have been enthusiastically told by some people, is that the dense foam can cause the wearer to sweat under the foam padding. This is just something to ponder when looking at the specifics. Some absolutely love the dense foam and won't consider anything else. Conversely, some like the feel of the soft foam padding against their face. Although it may not last quite as long as the dense foam, riders in the soft foam padding camp would never choose anything else. This is just one more thing to think about as you make your selection.
What is a pivotal fork on a goggle? This refers to a separate moving piece to which the strap is connected. For those riders who prefer their goggle strap over the helmet, a pivotal fork can improve fit and function. It allows for more flexibility and fit as you move the strap over the helmet and position in securely. Some goggles fit over the helmet very well without the pivotal fork; however, if you plan to have a goggle that fits over, you might start with ones that have this feature.
Now, price, of course, is a factor for most of us. One thing that is very important to keep in mind is that a more expensive goggle is not, necessarily better. Cheap motorcycle goggles can be just as safe, secure and cool-looking than their pricey counterparts. Overall, it is comfort and function combined that will help you decide what is the best motorcycle goggle for you.