About Us

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.