VISOR SKI HELMET: WHY AND HOW TO CHOOSE ONE?

WHAT IS A VISOR SKI HELMET?

A visor ski helmet is a helmet equipped with a large, flip-up visor that replaces the traditional helmet + ski goggle combo. This panoramic visor offers a wide field of vision and can be lowered or raised with a simple gesture—even while wearing gloves. Unlike a classic helmet that requires separate goggles or sunglasses, the visor helmet integrates eye protection directly into the shell, simplifying your gear and reducing the risk of forgetting essentials.

Some of the main advantages of a visor ski helmet include:

• Panoramic vision: a wide field of view, reduced blind spots, and optimal visibility.
• Ease of use: the visor is easy to adjust, even with gloves on.
• Improved ventilation: more airflow means less fogging on the visor.
• Perfect for glasses wearers: the visor lowers over your glasses without pressure or discomfort.
• Modern look: a sleek, distinctive, and stylish appearance on the slopes.

> Also worth reading: How to choose the perfect ski helmet?

SIX FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR VISOR SKI HELMET

Choosing the right visor ski helmet is essential for both your safety and comfort. Here are the key factors to take into account:

• Your skiing style: Visor helmets are best suited for alpine skiing and on-piste snowboarding. They are not recommended for freestyle or freeride disciplines due to their bulkier design.
• Weather conditions: If you ski in varying weather, consider a helmet with an interchangeable or photochromic visor that adapts to changing light conditions.
• Fit and sizing: Whether it’s a visor helmet or a traditional one, it must fit your head perfectly for optimal protection. Refer to Bollé’s size guides to find the right fit for you.
• Construction type and safety technologies:
  • ABS construction: tough outer shell, durable, strong impact resistance.
  • In-Mold construction: lighter and more compact, with an inner foam liner fused to the shell for better shock absorption.
  • Hybrid construction: a mix of both – ABS on the top for durability, In-Mold on the lower part for lightness and comfort.
  • Advanced safety tech: systems like MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) offer enhanced protection against angled impacts by reducing rotational forces transferred to the brain.
• Comfort features:
  • Ventilation: a good airflow system helps regulate temperature and wick away moisture.
  • Adjustments: precise adjustment systems (like the BOA® fit system) ensure a snug and secure fit.
  • Inner lining: removable and washable liners add to overall comfort and hygiene.
• Visor category: Like goggles, visors come in different lens categories:
  • Cat. 1: low light, overcast conditions
  • Cat. 2: variable weather
  • Cat. 3: bright sunshine

Did you know?
Photochromic visors, like Bollé’s Phantom technology, represent the gold standard in visibility. These lenses automatically adjust to the light, transitioning from Category 1 to 3 to ensure perfect vision in any weather. This innovation provides optimal UV protection and instant adaptability—no need to swap out visors or goggles.

CAN YOU WEAR A VISOR SKI HELMET WITH PRESCRIPTION GLASSES?

Absolutely — and it's one of the main advantages of a visor ski helmet for glasses wearers. The visor usually provides enough space to comfortably fit your prescription glasses underneath, without compressing them or causing discomfort — a common issue with traditional ski goggles.

At Bollé, we understand how important clear and comfortable vision is on the slopes. While visor helmets are a great solution for glasses wearers, we also offer other tailored options to meet your needs:

• OTG goggles (Over The Glasses): specially designed ski goggles that fit comfortably over your prescription glasses;
• The Bollé RX program: we offer compatible optical inserts that fit into our ski goggles. Once purchased, these inserts can be fitted with prescription lenses by your optician.

Discover our range of visor ski helmets