Smith Optics

In 1965 Dr. Bob Smith, orthodontist and original ski bum, develops the first sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam. He hand builds goggles in his garage and sells them out of his van on weekend ski trips in Utah and Colorado. With a refined design and manufacturing plan, Smith takes his innovation and starts producing his Smith Original ski goggle in 1969 in Rifle, Colorado with a contract manufacturer. In 1971 goggle production is moved to Ketchum, Idaho. In 1979 Smith introduces the Turbo Fan constant air management system. This micro fan positioned on the brow of the goggle results in the first goggle with an active ventilation system. Smith also introduces the Sunhawk, marketing Smith Optics’ entry into the sunglass market. In 1984 Smith patents the Roll Off film advance system for moto goggles giving riders mud and dust-free vision on demand. In 1989 Smith is Incorporated as Smith Sport Optics, Inc. dba Smith Optics. In 1995 Smith introduces the V3 goggle, attaining never-before-seen field of view. Partnering with world-renowned design lab IDEO, Smith introduces the world of industrial design to goggles. Smith also introduces the Slider 01. Slider sunglass technology revolutionizes the sport sunglass market. In 1998 Smith introduced the Warp goggle. Through the invention of what is now commonly referred to as “outriggers”, the Warp seals the modern rider’s face for the first time. In 2000 Smith moves headquarters from Lewis St. in Ketchum, Idaho, and builds its new world headquarters a few blocks away at 280 Northwood Way. In 2006 Smith builds its own factory in Clearfield, Utah. Smith MFG is born. In 2006 Smith enters the snow helmet market. Building on experience in fog-free goggle technology, Smith takes goggle-helmet integration to a new level introducing AirEvac and AirEvac2. These two active ventilation systems use channels and vents integrated into the helmet design to enhance active and passive ventilation of the goggle.