Gear Review: Gheek Goggle Protectors

Let’s talk about goggle covers. And while we’re at it, let’s not talk about how many lenses we have all scratched. I absolutely love my Smith Prodigy goggles – I have virtually every lens conceivable with those goggles. Like most people, I am also extremely paranoid of scratching the lenses in the backcountry. Often times if I know I will be riding through the trees I will pack an older pair of goggles because Murphy’s Law sort of dictates the ‘scratch factor’.

More often than not, I wear clear safety glasses. I know, believe it or not that is what I prefer, especially doggin’ through trees. However on days above tree line and during the snow fall I do break out the goggles. I had the opportunity to see Gheek goggle protectors during the SIA (Snowsports Industry America) show in Denver.  One of the gals I was with was futzing around with a pair and I was hooked like a monkey to a shiny object. They were the simplest, coolest product I had put my mitts on in a long time, and it was hard to put them down. Wouldn’t you know it, months later they found their way to my door.

I will let this quick 45 second video speak for itself, because honestly it illustrates just why these are so cool.

I have tried quite a few different goggle covers / protectors over the years. In fact, a friend of mine had modified a lycra sleeve on my goggle strap for me. It’s use was functional, but it was cumbersome in gloves. Resting goggles on the helmet presents it’s own set of cons – most notably condensation and damage to the lenses.

The Gheek goggle protectors snap on to the goggle strap itself, or even just the goggle frame. Even better, there is a drop-down cover cloth (micro cleaning cloth) that covers the inside of the goggle lens too. It’s an innovative and awesome piece of gear – especially with the prospect of having to replace $50 goggle lenses.

My alternative up until now was keep the goggles inside the goggle bag either in the pack or shell pocket. But with the Gheeks, I just stow them as is. As any patroller, forecaster, or backcountry enthusiast knows – Kinco gloves sort of dictate how precise your gear can be. I had no issues whatsoever attaching and removing the Gheeks with gloves on – as small of an issue as that sounds, it’s a deciding factor in gear for me.

I tried these with a few various goggle sizes ranging from small to large and all fit like a glove. The helmet attachment was flawless and could be done upside down, in a blizzard, while drinking a beer they were so easy. I love smart gear, and Gheeks shines through as just that.

Gheek is based out of Driggs, ID.

You can find them at over 35 Colorado retailers (several hundred nation-wide) and just about any REI. You can also get them online from Gheek on their website http://thegheek.com/