Anon M5S Ski Goggles Review
An in-depth review of the Anon M5S Goggles for Skiing and Snowboarding
April 18th, 2025
Our verdict
Overall we pretty much fell in love with the Anon M5S Ski Goggles–they converted our Oakley and Smith-loving testers into Anon enthusiasts. Once our Tahoe tester tried them she had a hard time wanting to wear anything else. Our Colorado tester said they were possibly the best goggles she has tried, and she is a die-hard Smith fan.
The Magna-Tech lenses are simple to swap out with zero learning curve required. The Perceive Sunny Onyx lens is the best black sunny lens we have tested and worked well even in low light conditions preventing the need to change lenses on cloudy runs. The MFI facemask pops on and off with one hand for easy snacking on the chairlift and keeps your face covered and protected from windburn. The M5S seamlessly integrates with Anon helmets like the Anon Merak Wavecell to eliminate any gaps.
These goggles are great for anyone who is looking to upgrade their kit. With premium lenses and multiple options for different types of weather and conditions, these are great for skiers and snowboarders alike. Anyone who is traveling will appreciate the quick-change lenses which allow users to swap out options as conditions vary. The M5S is designed for smaller faces and the M5 is designed for larger faces, so there is an option for most people.
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Specs
Fit: Unisex frame, small to medium faces
Lens shape: Flat toric lens
Lens technology: Anon’s Perceive optics for high-contrast vision
Lens-change system: Magna-Tech quick lens-change technology
Anti-fog technology: Integral Clarity Technology
Ventilation: Full-perimeter vents for fog prevention
Face mask integration: MFI Magnetic Face Mask Integration
Bonus lens included: Yes
OTG (Over-the-Glasses) compatible: Yes
Warranty: One-year manufacturer warranty
Comparison table
| SKI GOGGLES | HELMET COMPATIBLE? | FRAME SIZES | LENS TYPE | QUICK LENS CHANGE SYSTEM? | LENS TECH | FACE FOAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anon M5S | Y | S, Low-bridge | Flat Toric | Y | PERCEIVE, Anon Flat Toric Leens Tch | Triple layer |
| Smith I/O Mag | Y | S-XL, Low-bridge | Spherical | Y | ChromaPop TLT | Triple layer |
| Smith 4D Mag | Y | M - L | Spherical | Y | ChromaPop Lens Tech | Triple layer |
| Zeal Lookout | Y | M | Cylindrical | Y | Observation Deck | Triple layer |
| Oakley Flight Deck | Y | M, L, Low-bridge | Spherical | N | Plutonite | Triple layer |
Who is it for?
The M5S is designed for skiers and riders who wear small to medium helmets, who go out in various types of weather during a season. These goggles are for anyone looking for quick-change magnetic lenses who are looking for high-contrast vision. Anyone who is tired of wiping foggy goggles will appreciate the excellent fog prevention. Skiers and riders who typically wear a face covering will appreciate the seamless mask integration with the MFI magnetic face mask. The Anon goggles pair perfectly with Anon helmets so users of Anon helmets will appreciate the brand integration.
The Anon M5S goggles work seamlessly with the Anon Merak Wavecel Helmet. Photo courtesy Sara Kruglinski.
How we tested
We tested these goggles for a total of 45 days of skiing and snowboarding between two testers, one in Tahoe and one in Breckenridge. Both testers encountered a wide variety of weather conditions while testing from -10°F stormy days to 65°F sunny spring days. Both testers skied and rode hard in them during storms and inclement weather as well as bluebird and sunny days. We even threw in a couple of snowshoe and cross-country ski adventures with these googles as well.
We tested the Anon M5S Ski Goggles in everything from -10°F stormy days to 65°F
Our Tahoe tester wore the goggles with the included MFI Facemask while our Breckenridge tester preferred to go without the face mask on most days. Both testers wore the goggles with the Anon Merak WaveCel helmet in addition to other helmets from Smith and Bern.
What we liked
Magnetic swap system is super quick and easy to swap lenses
Frame shape is perfect for smaller faces without looking too tiny
Full peripheral vision without seeing side of frame
Lenses are some of the best we have tried
MFI face mask pops on and off easily with one hand
Seamless integration with Anon helmets
What could be better
Lenses are prone to fingerprints
Spare lenses are expensive
The mask attaches to the goggles easily with magnets. Photo courtesy Sara Kruglinski
Features
Magna-Tech quick lens-change system
The Magna-Tech lenses are easy to swap out one-handed, a simple squeeze of the frame pops the lens right off. The Magnetic interface ensures seamless, secure lens swapping. This makes it easy to adapt to changing light conditions–if you store your spare lenses in the included goggle bag you can swap out lenses when the light or weather changes between runs. The frame is what flexes to move the lenses, there is no manipulation of the lenses, so there is less worry about breaking or cracking a lens during a change.
Stasia, our Colorado tester, with the lower light lens in CO. Photo courtesy Stasia Stockwell.
Perceive lens technology
Flat light is no longer an issue with these lenses. The high-contrast optics enhance terrain visibility meaning that you see every little detail and bump before you hit it. The hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings resist smudges and moisture. We love that the lenses easily wipe clean with the included goggle bag.
Close up of the frame without the lens. Photo courtesy Sara Kruginski
Flat toric lens for wide field of view
The flat toric lens combines the benefits of cylindrical and toric lenses and maximizes peripheral vision while maintaining a sleek look. We found these provided excellent clarity on the snow. The large field of vision meant that the goggle frame itself was never in our peripheral vision.
Integral Clarity Technology anti-fog treatment
Inclement weather and rain were not an issue with these goggles. The advanced anti-fog coating lasts longer than standard treatments. We found the full-perimeter ventilation prevented moisture buildup inside goggles.
The MFI Mask has a nice vented breathing mesh in the oval by the nose and mouth to prevent fogging and overheating inside the mask even on sunny days. Photo courtesy Sara Kruglinski
MFI Magnetic Face Mask Integration
Magnetic connection for quick, secure attachment of a face mask (a neck gaiter similar to a Buff). Maintains airflow while sealing out snow and wind. The mask has magnetic attachments to keep the mask slightly off the face and nose for a more comfortable experience, which also helps reduce any change of fog. The mask has vented fabric over the mouth and nose area for easier breathing. There is a removable magnetic nose piece in the mask, for easy laundering.
The MFI Facemask attaches in place with magnets and is easy to pop on and off one handed. Photo courtesy Sara Kruglinski
OTG (Over-the-Glasses) compatible
Designed to fit over prescription eyewear without discomfort. We tried these with our oversized glasses and found they work better with a lower profile style.
Durable and scratch-resistant lens coating
The hydrophobic outer lens resists moisture and scratches while the oleophobic treatment repels smudges and oils for easier cleaning. We love that the goggle bag keeps lenses from getting scratched when stored and has a separate pocket for spare lenses so they don’t rub against each other.
The included bag details all the available lenses for the Anon M5S. Photo courtesy Sara Kruglinski
Performance in the field
Low-light conditions
Anon’s Perceive lens provides high contrast and clarity. Our Tahoe tester noted that the Sunny Onyx lens was still a viable option even on cloudy days and during late afternoon flat light conditions, and never felt a need to change to a lighter lens even on cloudy or darker days.
The Anon M5S with the lower light lens in CO. Photo courtesy Stasia Stockwell.
During a surprise dark rain storm our Tahoe tester was still able to see the snow clearly while gently wiping the water off the lenses. Our Breckenridge tester noted that during a stormy snow day with full vertigo these lenses still allowed her the clarity to safely ski to the bottom of the run, even if it was maybe a little slower than normal.
For lower light conditions these are some of the best lenses we have tested. The texture of the snow is easy to see so there are no surprises when skiing late afternoon chop.
Bright conditions
The Sunny Onyx lens excels on bright sunny days, as its namesake would suggest. Our Breckenridge tester noted that these were great in high light, the lens was dark enough for bluebird, bright CO days while still being more versatile than other full black lenses. Our Tahoe tester found the Sunny lens to work well at preventing eye strain on bright days and said this is the best lens she has ever owned.
On the brightest days our testers had no issues with visibility or having the snow appear blown out. Our testers found that the lens allowed for the details on the snow to be visible even in the brightest of conditions while still retaining true color balance. Our testers also noted that they were able to view their phone screen while wearing these goggles outside in the sun, so if you have to check work emails on the lift you can keep your goggles on.
Fog prevention
Excellent ventilation and anti-fog technology keep vision clear. Our Tahoe tester wore these goggles even on a rainy day and never experienced fog. She also wore these on a warm 65°day while sweating moderately inside the goggles and still did not have issues with any fog on the lenses.The MFI Mask attachment lifts the mask away from your face and helps to prevent fog from getting inside the goggles like you might have if you tuck a regular neck tube up over your nose and under the foam of your frame.
The inside of the goggles and the very comfortable foam padding. Photo courtesy Sara Kruglinski
Our Breckenridge tester never had any fog with these goggles and said they have the best fog prevention of any goggles they have ever used, even on wet and stormy days.
Sustainability
Anon is committed to reducing waste with high-quality, durable designs. Anon provides the option to continue to purchase replacement lenses keeping goggles in rotation longer. Burton is the parent company of Anon and is working to eliminate plastic in packaging materials by 2025, while continuing to monitor their carbon footprint and reduce their environmental impact.
The vents on the google frame help keep air flow going and fog from appearing. Photo courtesy Sara Kruglinski
Anon M5S vs. similar ski goggles
The Anon M5S performed better than most of the other goggles we have tested or worn. The Anon M5S Perceive Flat Toric lenses offer the best features of a cylindrical and spherical lens. They have great style points, lots of varying lens options for visibility, but best of all allow for a full field of view without overwhelming smaller faces.
The Smith I/O Mag and 4D Mag goggles are also known for excellent clarity and the Anon M5S performed just as well, if not a little better, especially in bright light. The Anon M5S is easier to swap lenses with just a squeeze of the frame vs. having to deal with clips and levers on other goggles with magnetic lens systems.
The Anon M5S is the first goggle we have tested that has not had any fog issues. Photo courtesy Stasia Stockwell.
This is the first goggle we have tested that has not had any fog issues too—the fog-resistant technology works so well we kept the wipes in our jacket pockets while we were out on the slopes. The Smith I/O goggles are a close second in terms of fog prevention with their hydrophobic coating.
We didn’t have any issues with fit on these goggles, as they are a little bigger than the Smith I/O and about the same size as our Oakley Flight Deck goggles. The Anon M5S is less “bug eyed” than the Oakley Flight Deck and has a slightly lower profile.
Overall the Anon M5S excelled in every category compared to other goggles we tested, and has the added bonus of an included facemask/gaiter.
The magnetic bar is easily removed from the MFI Facemask for easy washing and cleaning of the mask. Photo courtesy Sara Kruglinski
Should I buy the Anon M5S Ski Goggles?
Buy if: You want quick-swap lenses, high-contrast optics, and fog-free performance.
These goggles are great for those who spend several days a year on the snow and want quick lens changes as the weather turns from sunny to overcast.
The magnets are very strong on the lenses and it pops right into place with very little effort. Photo courtesy Sara Kruglinski
If you are looking for an upgraded optic experience to be able to see all the imperfections in the snow as you ski at higher speeds, or if you are looking for seamless mask integration to keep your nose and face protected from wind or sun, the Anon M5S are great. If you are tired of constantly wiping fog off the inside of your lenses or applying a fog treatment, these will be a nice upgrade with the excellent fog prevention.
Overall, if you haven’t tried a premium-level goggle before, these are a great upgraded option with superb clarity and options, and they have a sleek modern look.
Skip if: You prefer a lower-cost option or need a larger frame fit.
The M5S is for those who wear a small or medium helmet, but if you wear a large helmet the M5 instead is a better option (same goggles in a larger size). If you are newer to snowsports you may want to start with a budget-friendly goggle as you build up time on the snow. If you are seeking an extra-wide field of view or wear an XL helmet, there are better options from Anon, Smith, Julbo and Oakley to fit your needs.
Where to buy the Anon M5S Ski Goggles
The Anon M5S Ski Goggles are a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership
Evo
Pros: 365 day returns, store locations in ski towns for easy last-minute pick-up, may offer rentals if you want to try before you buy, earn 10% back in Rewards
Similar products
Smith I/O Mag
Helmet Compatible: Yes
Frame Sizes: S-XL, Low-bridge
Lens Type: Spherical
Quick Lens Change System? Yes
Lens Tech: ChromaPop TLT
Face Foam: Triple layer
The Smith I/O Mag is a long time favorite of testers and our Best Overall winner in our Best Snow Goggles review. The lenses are comparable to the Anon M5S with many options for low and bright light so you can get out and see in all conditions that weather presents. The frame on the I/O is a little smaller than the Anon M5S with a smaller field of view. The I/O requires a little more work to change the lenses with levers, this keeps them secure but also makes it a little more difficult to change the lens compared to the M5S. Plus, it’s a factor that these elements of the goggles could always break.
The Smith I/O has excellent clarity and contrast on the snow. The multiple lens options allow for users to find the right lenses for varying conditions. The I/O comes in multiple sized options so there is a model for almost everyone. Overall, this is an excellent choice for any skier or rider. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Smith I/O Mag Ski Goggles.
similar-products
Helmet Compatible: Yes
Frame Sizes: M - L
Lens Type: Spherical
Quick Lens Change System? Yes
Lens Tech:ChromaPop Lens Tech
Face Foam: Triple layer
The Smith 4D Mag goggles are another top-of-the-line option for skiers and riders who want a maximum field of view with excellent lens clarity. These goggles are another excellent choice, as long as you don’t mind spending top dollar.
In our testing they perform about equally as well as the Anon M5S, so technically speaking these are a comparable choice. The frame is a bit larger than the M5S (but more similar to the regular M5), so if you wear a small hamlet you may find a better fit with the M5S. We do prefer the look of the M5S’s toric lens, but style often comes down to personal preference. If you like the style and fit of the 4D Mag, we think this is another excellent choice for goggles.
Smith 4D Mag
Helmet Compatible: Y
Frame Sizes: M
Lens Type: Cylindrical
Quick Lens Change System? Y
Lens Tech: Observation Deck
Face Foam: Triple layer
The Zeal Lookout goggles have a true cylindrical lens compared to the toric lens on the Anon M5S. We love the look and style of the Lookouts. Zeal’sObservation Deck tech allows for better field of vision than most other cylindrical goggles we’ve used, and we also really like the photochromic lens options that change automatically based on the conditions.
We do think the M5S goggles have a slightly better field of vision, and the overall lens clarity is better in the M5S. But if you like the classic cylindrical look of the Lookouts, we think these are a great choice, especially given the much more affordable price.
Zeal Lookout
Helmet Compatible: Yes
Frame Sizes: M, L, Low-bridge
Lens Type: Spherical
Quick Lens Change System? No
Lens Tech: Plutonite
Face Foam: Triple layer
The Oakley Flight Deck Prizm goggles have a spherical lens. The flight deck is a popular style choice and is designed to mimic the look of a pilot as you fly through the air hitting jumps and bumps.
The lenses on the flight deck have a great field of view so you can see everything in your peripheral without the goggle frame getting in the way. The clarity is excellent and contrast is very good, these were our Tahoe tester’s favorites until she tried the M5S which has slightly better clarity and contrast, especially in bright and variable conditions.
Swapping lenses on the Oakley Prizm goggles is more involved that the Anon M5S, but if you only need one lens these are a great option. We have a pair of these that are almost 10 years old and still usable after hundreds of days on the hill, making them a great choice for durability as well.
Oakley Flight Deck Prizm
About the Authors / Why you should trust us
A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held WFR, AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and Avalanche Rescue Certifications and is working to become an avalanche education instructor. She’s now a full time writer and editor in the outdoor space and has been testing and writing about gear for over a decade.
Stasia grew up in northern Utah where she learned to ski not long after she learned to walk. She’s since spent every winter on snow, skiing in places from Alaska to Japan, with plenty of turns taken around her home in Summit County, Colorado. She gets out to ski multiple times a week throughout the season, no matter the weather and conditions. That means she’s used her gear in everything from bluebird days to full-on storms and whiteouts, and along with anyone else who skis in the Tenmile Range, plenty of wind. When it comes to goggles, she knows the importance of lens clarity and quality features—but those features best when they come in a stylish package.
Sara Kruglinski also tested the Anon M5S goggles alongside Stasia. Based in the Tahoe area, Sara is both a skier and snowboarder, and former Professional Ski Patroller and SAR Team Member. Sara tries to get as many sneaky snow days in as possible each year even if it is just a few hours on her lunch break. Sara has been skiing and snowboarding over 20 years and has traveled to Canada and most of the West Coast with her snow gear. She understands that safety is a priority and knows how important it is to be able to have good clear vision especially when moving at high speeds. When the snow melts you can find her backpacking or running on dirt trails likely eating gummy snacks. You can read all her stories on her author page.
