Detailed Appraisal of Oakley Airbrake XL Equipment
The Oakley Airbrake XL, a premium offering in the ski goggle market, has been making waves for its impressive features and performance. Let's delve into what makes this goggle a standout choice for skiers.
Firstly, the Airbrake XL's anti-fog coating and dual-paned lenses do an admirable job of limiting condensation, particularly in less strenuous activities. However, during higher-output activities in below-freezing temperatures, a bit of steaminess may occur.
One of the Airbrake XL's key advantages is its lens-change system, which is significantly easier to use compared to the Fall Line XL. The goggle also fits a larger face better than the Smith I/O Mag, making it a suitable choice for those with more prominent features.
The Airbrake XL's lens, the premium Prizm lens, aims to boost contrast and make small details stand out. While it delivers on this promise, it's worth noting that the rose base color of the Prizm lens can make everything appear overly pink and a little artificial.
The goggle's triple-layer foam construction provides comfort to the user, and its flexible frame allows the goggle to conform to the user's face nicely. The Airbrake XL's size makes it a strong competitor to the Anon M4 Toric MFI in the larger ski goggle market.
The Airbrake XL's frame is noticeably flexible but hasn't resulted in any issues with the goggle holding its shape. The goggle's strap adjusts easily to fit over a wide variety of ski helmets or even just a winter hat, and includes silicone strips to provide added grip on a helmet.
The Airbrake XL comes with a high-quality second lens, and its Switchlock Technology for lens swapping is reasonably fast and easy to use, although it can be challenging with gloves on. Despite extensive testing, the goggle has shown no signs of wear, except for minor scuffing on the lenses.
The Oakley Airbrake XL's peripheral visibility is among the best experienced, making it suitable for both resort and backcountry use. The goggle's lens provides a clear, expansive field of vision in all directions, thanks to its large spherical lens.
The Oakley Fall Line Goggles, released in 2019/2020, are a more budget-friendly option within Oakley's premium ski goggle lineup, priced lower than the Airbrake XL. However, the Airbrake XL's price of $270 still positions it as a premium option in the ski goggle market.
In conclusion, the Oakley Airbrake XL offers a combination of comfort, durability, and performance that makes it a worthy investment for skiers with larger features. Its premium Prizm lenses, expansive field of vision, and easy lens-change system are among its standout features. While it may not be the most affordable option, the Airbrake XL's quality and performance justify its premium price tag.
