I got sent a pair of Messy Weekend XE2 Snow Goggles to test out, here’s my unbiased review – this pair in fact.
First up they look awesome, I love the frameless design with the mirrored lenses:
Here’s the TLDR product specs:
Based on the product information from the Messyweekend website for the Flip XE2 Black Green Mirrored ski goggles, here’s a feature list for a product review:
Product Specs
Lens Technology:
- Green mirrored lens for enhanced contrast
- Anti-fog and anti-scratch coating
- 100% UV protection
Frame Design:
- Matte black frame color
- Frameless design for improved peripheral vision
- Compatible with most helmets
Comfort and Fit:
- Triple-layer foam for cushioning and moisture-wicking
- Adjustable strap for secure fit
- Over-the-glasses (OTG) compatible
Versatility:
- Suitable for various light conditions
- Ideal for both sunny and overcast days
Additional Features:
- Interchangeable lens system
- Microfiber goggle bag included
- One-year warranty
Environmental Impact:
- Part of Messyweekend’s Clean Oceans Project
- Portion of sales contributes to ocean cleanup efforts
Style:
- Modern, sleek design
- Unisex appeal
Ok on to the full review…
The XE2 Goggle embodies the spirit of MessyWeekend’s inspiring message: embracing the unpredictability of life, the whirlwind of adventure, and the value of environmental sustainability.
Crafted with particular attention to detail, the XE2 Goggle effectively weaves robustness, convenience, and style together – a testament to MessyWeekend’s eye for quality and functional design. The goggles, apart from their compelling look, are geared for strategic use in the cold, snowy outdoors. They’re engineered not just for maximum visibility but also to withstand challenging weather conditions.
A standout feature of the XE2 Goggle is the innovative lens technology it utilises. The lenses are designed to provide a wide field of vision, ensuring that skiers and snowboarders can see clearly and navigate the slopes with confidence. What truly sets these goggles apart is the inclusion of an anti-fog system. With the XE2 Goggle, you can say goodbye to foggy lenses, which are a common yet dangerous obstacle on wintry mountain slopes.
But MessyWeekend doesn’t stop with just the goggles—they extend their dedication to environmental responsibility with this product too. For every pair of XE2 Goggle sold, the company removes 2 kg of waste from our oceans. These goggles are not just an investment in quality snow-sport gear, but also a contribution to a worthwhile cause.
In a nutshell, the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle brings together superior design and responsible business. It’s a fresh breath in the snow gear market, offering a striking blend of style, functionality, and a novel approach to sustainability. Even though their recent entry into the market, the XE2 Goggle is evidence of how MessyWeekend is truly carving its niche.
Key Features of the Goggles
Today, I’d like to investigate into a few key features of the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle that stand out, namely the comfort and fit, the anti-fog and ventilation capabilities and its OTG functionality.
Comfort and Fit
A prime feature of these snow goggles is the superior comfort and fit they offer. They come equipped with three distinct layers of foam that mold to the shape of your face, ensuring comfortable wear for extended periods of time. This excellent fit is further enhanced by an adjustable strap, which has been thoughtfully designed with silicone lines on the inside to grip the helmet securely, preventing any unwanted slippage.
Anti-Fog & Ventilation Capabilities
I must extol the impressive anti-fog and ventilation capabilities of the XE2 Goggle. They have got this innovative ventilation system that works by channeling warm and humid air out of the goggles. This clever science happens through vents at the top of the goggles while fresh air is directed in from the underside. It ensures that the goggles don’t fog up impairing your vision. Besides, the lenses are also furnished with an anti-fog coating that offers extra protection against moisture build-up or dew. But, it’s essential to remember to clean the lens with clean water only to maintain the integrity of this coating.
OTG (Over the Glasses) Functionality
Finally, it goes without saying, the OTG or Over The Glasses feature of the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle deserves praise. An inclusion which promotes inclusivity, the goggles have a universal fit comfortable enough to be worn over most prescription glasses. While this is certainly a considerable advantage, I would advise choosing smaller-sized glasses whenever possible to ensure optimal comfort.
By blending comfort with functionality and integrating smart features, the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle indeed proves to be a reliable companion for any winter sports enthusiast.
Lens Characteristics
In the exciting world of snow sports, the quality of your vision can significantly enhance your performance and safety. In this section, I will investigate into the Messy Weekend XE2 Goggle’s lens features to provide a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities.
Lens Swap Mechanism
The Messy Weekend XE2 Goggle introduces an ingenious magnetic lens attachment technology. It allows users to easily alter lenses depending on the weather conditions and their distinct requirements. This feature simplifies lens changing, offering a seamless experience and ensuring you spend more time enjoying the slope and less time adjusting gear.
Glass Visible Light Transmission (VLT) Percentage
Two lens types are incorporated in the XE2 Goggle, specially designed for different light conditions. The XE2 Dark Grey lens, bearing a Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage of 17%, is tailored for sunny conditions. To supplement this, the goggles also come with a Yellow Overcast lens designed for flat light, boasting a VLT of 55%. The idea is to maximise the user’s vision against diverse backgrounds, facilitating safer navigation on snowy terrains.
Details on Photochromic XEp Lenses
The review will not be complete without a discussion on the XEp lenses. Regrettably, the context has not provided specific data on these lenses for the XE2 Goggle. But, previous MessyWeekend models using XEp lenses have achieved high acclaim for their photochromic properties, which enable the lens tint to adjust in response to changing light conditions. Hopefully, the XE2 model will follow similar lines.
Examination of XE2 Lenses
The XE2 lenses offer more than just lens swapping and light-adjusting features. They are double-layered lenses fabricated from industry-leading Grade 1 optical-quality polycarbonate. This sturdy construction promises increased lens durability and protects against possible impact or damage often associated with snow sports. Besides, the XE2 lenses boast a unique violet base that enhances colour recognition. This can make all the difference in accurately identifying obstacles or changing terrains, effectively elevating your safety and overall snow sport experience.
Size Guide for Buyers
Following the detailed exploration of the innovative lens technology and unique design elements of the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle, it’s crucial to understand the size dynamics of the product. When it comes to snow sports gear, especially goggles, finding the right fit isn’t only about comfort; it also drastically affects performance and safety.
To ensure the goggles maintain a secure fit while not putting undue pressure on your face, the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle employs the adjustable strap fitted with silicon lines. This feature decreases chances of slippage and facilitates a comfortable yet firm fit, regardless of your head size or if you’re wearing a helmet. The goggles measure 18 cm in width and 10 cm in height, ensuring that they fit a vast range of face shapes and sizes comfortably.
In terms of adaptability, the XE2 Goggle scores high with its OTG (Over The Glasses) implementation. Recognising that some winter sports enthusiasts may require prescription glasses, MessyWeekend designed the goggles to easily fit over most prescription frames. This means you don’t have to compromise on vision correction on the snowy slopes.
Besides, the goggle’s three-layer foam design plays a significant role in customising fit and comfort. This foam adjusts to the contours of your face, creating a personalised fit over time. It also minimises the chance of skin irritation, which can occasionally occur with prolonged wear of winter sports gear.
Summarizing, the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle combines adaptability, adjustability, and a broad fit range. Its balance of comfort and performance makes it a snow-sport goggle that caters to users with diverse requirements and preferences. Whether you need to wear prescription glasses while on the slopes or just want a comfortable and secure fit, the XE2 Goggle delivers on all fronts.
Performance Analysis
Following my extensive exploration of the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle’s features and design, it’s time to deep jump into its practical performance and usability. Here, we’ll examine its performance, taking into account tangible factors such as application, comfort, visibility, and lens clarity.
Testing Methodology
For a fair assessment, my testing methodology encompassed both controlled and real-world conditions. I ventured out onto the snowy slopes multiple times with the XE2 Goggle on, testing it in several lighting conditions, weather extremes, and terrains. I also made sure to evaluate its comfort during prolonged use, running exhaustive tests on both its anti-fogging capability and the ease of lens swapping.
Practical Usage and Comfort
When it comes to ease of use and comfort, the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle shines brightly. The three-layer foam design moulds seamlessly around the face, ensuring a soft and snug fit, even after hours of use. The silicone-lined strap adjustment is a breeze, and it holds fast, preventing any annoying slippage. The OTG feature was a handy add-on: I found it comfortably accommodated most prescription glasses, which is excellent news for those of us who need vision correction on the slopes.
Visibility and Lens Clarity
I was supremely impressed with the visibility and lens clarity offered by the XE2 Goggle. Both the Dark Grey lens (for sunny conditions) and the Yellow Overcast lens (flat light situations) provided exceptional clarity without straining the eyes. The unique violet base enhanced colour recognition, making it easier to navigate mixed and tricky terrains. The lens-changing mechanism provided the flexibility to adapt to the changing weather quickly. And about its anti-fog prowess, all my experiences indicate that they deliver an effective anti-fogging performance, ensuring clear vision regardless of intense activity or humid weather conditions.
Comparison with Other Goggles
As I embarked on a mission to compare the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle with other goggles available in the market, I found an array of alternatives promising a variety of features. But, do they truly give the XE2 Goggle a run for its money? Let’s dig deeper.
Alternatives in the Market
Understanding the snow sports gear market isn’t complete without acknowledging noteworthy brands like Oakley, Smith, and POC, which also offer high-quality goggles.
Oakley’s Flight Deck XM Goggles, for instance, are a popular choice among skiers and snowboarders. They boast a rimless lens for impressive peripheral vision, making them a potentially strong contender to the XE2 Goggle. But, with Oakley, you don’t have the option of OTG functionality, which allows individuals to wear prescription glasses underneath, a feature the XE2 neatly accommodates.
Smith’s I/O MAG Goggles, compete in the premium segment, offering remarkable features such as ChromaPop lens technology for vivid colours and fog resistance. Nevertheless, the I/O MAG falls behind when it comes to environmental responsibility. Unlike MessyWeekend who removes 2kg of oceanic plastic waste with every product sold, Smith doesn’t hold a similar environmental policy.
Besides, the POC Fovea Clarity goggles claim a spot in the high-quality goggle market with a unique spektris coating enhancing vision clarity. They indeed challenge the XE2 on the vision performance front. But, they don’t entail the simple, magnetic lens attachment found in the XE2 Goggles, that effortlessly allows lens swapping based on different lighting conditions.
While these alternatives offer considerable features, the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggles shine through with their innovative lens technology, fit comfortability, OTG functionality, and notable commitment to environmental responsibility. These combined features make the XE2 a stand-out choice in the vast goggle market.
Advantages of Messy Weekend XE2 Goggle
There’s a myriad of notable advantages offered by the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle that definitely merit some well-deserved attention. To give you just a taster, I’ve broken down some of the key benefits for your consideration.
- Environmental Impact: The XE2 Goggle is more than just an accessory for your snow sports adventures. Every XE2 Goggle purchased contributes to a noteworthy cause. MessyWeekend removes 2 kg of plastic waste from the oceans with each product sold. So, while you’re hitting the slopes, you’re also playing a part in saving our planet.
- Innovative Lens Technology: The lenses of the XE2 are truly stand-out. Designed with a wider field of vision and an effective anti-fog system, they guarantee enhanced safety and optimal visibility for skiers and snowboarders. Add on top of that, a unique magnetic lens attachment technology, and you have a goggle that lets you easily swap lenses to suit changing weather conditions. Whether it’s sunny or overcast, you are covered.
- Superior Comfort and Fit: Embodying the philosophy of its parent brand, this nifty goggle has been strategically designed with three layers of foam to customise the fit, making it super comfortable. Plus, its adjustable strap with silicone lines ensures it stays secure on your head, even during the most intense activities.
- OTG Functionality: This pair of goggles gives a whole new meaning to inclusivity in snow sports. The ingenious OTG feature allows the XE2 to fit comfortably over most prescription glasses, ensuring that your vision correction doesn’t have to be compromised while on the slopes.
- Durable and Impact Resistant: The XE2 lenses are crafted from Grade 1 optical-quality polycarbonate, which ensures they can withstand a good deal of wear and tear, adding to the product’s life and safeguarding your investment.
- Versatile Design: The goggles measure 18 cm in width and 10 cm in height, making them suitable for a wide spectrum of face shapes. Plus, the trendy aesthetics ensure that you’re not compromising on style while braving the cold outdoors.
- Value for Money: With its vast array of stellar features and unmatched quality, coupled with the brand’s commitment to environmental preservation, the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle promises excellent value for your money.
Taken together, these advantages contribute to the general overview and make the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle a strong candidate for anyone seeking a durable, adaptable, and environmentally responsible snow-sport gear addition.
Disadvantages of Messy Weekend XE2 Goggle
While there is so much to admire about the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle, it wouldn’t be a fair review without highlighting a few shortcomings that have caught my eye.
Firstly, although the XE2 Goggle boasts an innovative lens technology that significantly enhances vision clarity and safety, the dark grey lens intended for sunny conditions could do better in terms of reducing glare. I found the degrees of solar radiation reduction to be slightly lower than a few of its competitors, such as Oakley’s Flight Deck XM and Smith’s I/O MAG.
Secondly, the unique violet base on the lenses, which is supposed to enhance colour recognition, might not work for everyone. Some users, including myself, could perceive the terrain to be darker than it is, which could potentially hinder navigation and precision during highly dynamic snowboarding or skiing sessions.
Next on the list is the lens swapping procedure. While the magnetic technology used to attach the goggle lenses provides an easy way to swap them, the magnets could be stronger. During a few instances of high-speed downhill rides, I noticed that the lens loosely attached, raising questions about its stability and reliability in extreme sport conditions.
Finally, about the size and fit, even though the XE2 Goggle accommodates various head sizes and is designed to be worn over prescription glasses, it might feel a bit tight on larger heads or when worn over larger-sized glasses frames. Sure, the three-layer foam design offers a comfortable fit, but the goggles could provide a little more room for personal comfort, especially during prolonged use.
Even though these are only a few drawbacks that wearers might face, the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle delivers a strong performance overall, and its commitment to environmental sustainability is commendable. But, a few improvements in its lens technology, the lens attachment stability, and roomier fit could take this innovative goggle from great to exceptional.
Final Verdict
After an in-depth look at the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle, I’ve found it to be a standout product in the snow-sport gear market. It’s not just about the high-quality design and innovative features. It’s about a brand that’s committed to making a positive impact on our environment. Every purchase of the XE2 contributes to ocean clean-up efforts, and that’s a win in my book.
From the lens technology to the OTG functionality, the XE2 Goggle is designed with the user in mind. Whether you’re a skier or a snowboarder, the wide field of vision and anti-fog system will enhance your safety on the slopes. The goggles’ comfort and fit are also impressive, with the three-layer foam design providing a snug fit for various head sizes and glasses frames.
Sure, there are areas for improvement, such as glare reduction and the magnetic lens attachment. But let’s not forget that no product is perfect. Even though these minor drawbacks, the XE2 Goggle offers superior performance, comfort, and environmental consciousness, making it a top choice for snow sports enthusiasts. So if you’re in the market for new snow-sport gear, give the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle a try. You won’t be disappointed.
What is MessyWeekend’s brand philosophy?
MessyWeekend embraces spontaneity and the chaotic moments of life, promoting a lifestyle centred around creating unforgettable memories with friends. They are also committed to environmental responsibility.
What does the purchase of a MessyWeekend product contribute to?
For every product sold, MessyWeekend commits to remove 2 kg of plastic waste from the oceans. They’re committed to both producing great products and contributing to environmental sustainability.
What are the key features of the MessyWeekend XE2 Goggle?
The XE2 Goggle combats robustness, convenience, and style, making it ideal for cold, snowy conditions. It uses innovative lens technology, providing a wide field of vision and an anti-fog system.
Can the XE2 Goggle accommodate prescription glasses?
Yes. With its OTG (Over The Glasses) functionality, these goggles can be worn over most prescription glasses. It is designed to promote inclusivity amongst its users.
What are the unique characteristics of the lenses used in the XE2 Goggle?
The XE2 Goggle has a magnetic lens attachment technology that allows easy swapping of lenses based on weather conditions, with two lens types provided. The lenses are double-layered, made from optic-quality polycarbonate, ensuring durability and impact resistance.
How does the XE2 Goggle ensure a good fit for its users?
The XE2 Goggle has an adjustable strap with silicone lines for a secure fit, accommodating different head sizes and helmet uses. It’s also designed with three layers of foam for a comfortable fit, reducing skin irritation risk during prolonged wear.
How does the XE2 Goggle fare when compared to other brands in the market?
The XE2 Goggle stands out due to its OTG functionality, environmental responsibility, and innovative lens technology, making it a superior choice in comparison to other goggles in the market, including brands like Oakley, Smith, and POC.
What are some disadvantages of the XE2 Goggle?
While the XE2 Goggle provides great visibility with its innovative lens technology, there is room for improvement in glare reduction and the violet base colour maybe not suit all users. Additionally, the magnetic lens attachment could benefit from stronger magnets and the fit may be tight for larger heads or bigger glasses frames.
Founder of Snowbistro, I’m an ex-seasonaire (Whistler 05/06) and internet marketer who rides & resides in the mountains of Slovakia
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