ProView – Julbo Launcher Goggles Review

When you’re flying down a powdery slope or enduring icy winds on a summit, your goggles are your ultimate ally. I’ve found this essential piece of gear to often be fickle, dealing with fogging, unwieldy lens swapping and durability issues. Enter the Julbo Launcher Ski Goggles, designed to provide clarity and protection in the most demanding alpine environments with unique features. I’ve been testing them in Colorado with prime early season conditions, where they’ve faced everything from bluebird skies to flat light and whiteout conditions.

Being a skier in Colorado can be a tough gig in November. Often warm conditions and a lack of snow mean the early season here is a waiting game. But this season the goods were delivered early, perfect timing for testing the Julbo Launcher goggle. Testing the Julbo Launcher Ski Goggles took me to the snow-draped front range with numerous resort days and a few days in the backcountry as well. Conditions were a true mixed bag: one day brought intense sunshine reflecting off fresh powder, while others were overcast with heavy snow and low visibility. This was the perfect setting to see how these goggles handled dynamic weather.

As an avid skier in the backcountry as well as resort, I’ve worn countless goggles across all price points. My goal was to see if the Launcher could deliver on Julbo’s promise of exceptional optics, zero fogging and comfort in all-mountain conditions.

Fit/Comfort

The Julbo Launcher Ski Goggles has a snug yet unrestrictive fit, almost like you’re not even wearing them. The foam around the frame is super comfortable and as an added benefit, didn’t leave a red pressure ring around my face as other goggles have. Another plus is they even stayed put during aggressive runs, accomplished with silicone lining in the elastic band. With a slightly narrower face, I found the XL frame to be on the larger size. I’d suggest trying these on if XL frames tend to be too large for your face as this could be an issue for those in need of a narrower fit.

Look/Style

These goggles hit the sweet spot between sleek and functional. The lens is edge-to-edge, which makes for a clean look. This wide lens provides an expansive field of view, ie. stylish and practical. I typically wear my goggles over the helmet, yet because of the size, I found myself preferring the look of an under the helmet, dare I say ‘park skier look’. I particularly like the color palette selected for this goggle, the sand and blue reactive lens have a really crisp look.

Features

Dual highlights address some of the biggest issues I’ve had with goggles in the past. 

Julbo’s REACTIV Photochromic Lens, which adapts seamlessly to differing light conditions, is a game changer. Gone are the days where you have to swap lenses midway through the day with changing conditions. Whether skiing under bright sun or navigating through a storm, the lenses adjusted quickly, maintaining clear visibility. 

And one of my favorite features for this goggle is the anti-fogging features. I’ve always struggled with fogging on hot, wet, or high output days. The anti-fog coating, combined with the Superflow system, ensured fog-free performance, even after a fast paced ascent on a backcountry skin track. Simply push on the two tabs on either side of the lens and the lens will pop out a few centimeters and allow cool air to come through. I’ve had zero fogging issues in 11 days of use (a first ever for me).

Weight/Packability:

The Launcher is fairly standard in weight and size, yet I wouldn’t hesitate throwing these in my pack for days out touring. The accompanied protector has a unique design that keeps the lens protected with a structured side panel. It doesn’t sound like much, but this protective sleeve is a great help when packing these goggles into a pack or throwing them into the back of your rig after a day on the slopes.

Function/Performance

These goggles truly handled everything I threw at them. The photochromic lens made quick work of changing conditions. Wide-angle views with the massive lens were great. With early season crowds the slopes were crowded at times, and in the backcountry early season conditions means rocks/trees and other “sharky” features are always present so a goggle with a quick adapting lens and expansive field of vision has come in super handy. 

Durability/Construction

After eleven full days of rigorous use, the goggles are unscathed. The lenses weren’t scratches from accidental drops, and the frame felt heavy duty, yet flexible enough to withstand a few rough tosses into my gear bag.

The Product in Action

The Julbo Launcher proved its worth from groomers to moguls and backcountry powder stashes. They particularly shined in variable weather, making them ideal for all-day adventures when conditions can shift rapidly.

Did they meet my expectations? Absolutely. Julbo delivered on their promise of all-weather performance, and the goggles lived up to their description. For skiers who want clear vision and reliable protection that won’t fog, these goggles are choice!

The Verdict

• What makes it standout? The photochromic lens technology sets these goggles apart. Unlike goggles I’ve had in the past, Julbo’s lenses adapt rapidly and perform consistently in all light conditions. Add in their fog-resistant design and excellent field of vision, and you’ve got a pair of goggles that can handle anything the mountain throws at you.
• Who Is It For? The Launcher Ski Goggles are perfect for skiers and snowboarders who demand versatility and durability. They’re ideal for pros tackling variable conditions, whether you’re a resort regular or a backcountry adventurer.

Friendliness to the Earth

According to Julbo’s website, these goggles are almost entirely made from recycled materials. The strap is made from recycled fish nets, while other pieces of the goggles are recycled bio material and plastic. The emphasis on durability ensures you won’t be replacing these goggles anytime soon.

The Final Word

The Julbo Launcher Ski Goggles are a great choice for anyone seeking clear optics on the slopes, accomplished through superior anti-fog features and an adapting lens. On top of these features, this goggle looks great and comes in a bunch of fun color ways. 

I’ll be rocking these goggles for seasons to come!

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