The Arc'teryx Powderface Case protects ski and snowboard goggles using recycled ePTFE material that absorbs moisture from wet lenses. Weighing 90 grams, this discontinued soft-shell case features microfleece lining, foam stiffener, and drawcord closure for quick access. Available in colors including Buckhorn, Blue Ray, and Rawhide. One-size design fits most standard goggles. Original retail price $30-35. Discontinued but available on resale platforms.
How Does the Arc'teryx Powderface Case Protect Goggles?
The Powderface uses a three-layer construction with ePTFE foam laminated between nylon face fabric and brushed fleece backing. I slip my goggles inside after riding, and the ePTFE layer immediately starts absorbing moisture from wet lenses and straps, preventing condensation buildup that causes scratches when lenses rub against fabric. The foam stiffener holds the case's shape around the goggles perfectly.
The microfleece lining creates a soft barrier against the lens surface, eliminating the risk of scratches when storing goggles loosely in a backpack with keys, carabiners, or other hard objects.
Is it Waterproof?
The Powderface provides water resistance but not full waterproofing. The ePTFE material repels water while the drawcord opening allows moisture to escape, preventing mold growth inside the case. I've used this in wet Pacific Northwest conditions and find it handles light rain and snow splatter effectively.
However, this is not a submersion-proof hard case. Extended exposure to heavy rain or storing the case in wet snow will eventually saturate the material. For comparison, hard-shell cases like the Smith Hard Case offer complete waterproofing with sealed zippers but weigh more and take up significantly more pack space.
How Much Does it Weigh?
The Powderface weighs 90 grams, making it one of the lightest goggle protection options available. I can compress this into my jacket pocket during lift rides without noticing the weight or bulk. The pliable foam construction collapses flat when empty, unlike rigid hard cases that maintain their dimensions.
The 90-gram weight includes all three material layers plus the drawcord closure system. Competitors like Google socks weigh less but provide minimal impact protection, while hard cases weigh 150-200 grams and offer superior crush resistance.
Which Google sizes fit the Powderface Case?
The Powderface accommodates most standard ski and snowboard goggles in a one-size-fits-all design. I've stored Smith I/O goggles, Oakley Flight Deck models, and massive Giro Fender goggles without fit issues. The pliable foam adjusts to a wide range of goggle shapes and sizes.
Oversized goggles designed for extremely large faces may stretch the case beyond optimal protection. Very small youth goggles will have excess space inside, reducing the protective benefit of the form-fitting foam stiffener.
How Do You Clean it?
Surface clean only according to Arc'teryx care instructions. I wipe the exterior nylon face fabric with a damp cloth to remove salt, dirt, and snow residue after riding days. The interior microfleece requires gentle brushing to remove lint and debris without damaging the soft fibers.
Avoid machine washing, as this degrades the ePTFE foam layer and compromises its moisture-absorption properties. Air-dry the case completely before storing the goggles inside to prevent mold growth in the fleece lining.
Does the Drawcord Closure Work Well?
The drawcord opening provides quick access without zippers that can scratch lenses or freeze in cold conditions. I pull the cord to tighten the opening after inserting the goggles, creating a secure closure that prevents contents from falling out during transport. The cord lock mechanism reliably holds tension.
However, drawcord closures don't seal as completely as zippered cases. Fine snow particles can enter through small gaps around the cord, though the interior fleece prevents these from contacting the lens surface directly.
How Does the Arc'teryx Powderface Case Compare to Hard Cases?
The Powderface prioritizes packability and weight savings over crush protection. I choose this for backcountry touring and resort riding, where I carry the case in a backpack or a jacket pocket. The soft construction compresses around other gear.
Hard cases provide superior impact protection for airline travel or equipment shipment. The rigid shell prevents crushing damage that could crack lenses, but the fixed dimensions consume valuable pack space even when empty. For more on snow-compatible gear, check the best Arc'teryx beanies for sking and snowboarding.
Is the Arc'teryx Powderface Case Worth Buying?
At original retail pricing of $30-35, the Powderface delivered solid value for lightweight goggle protection with excellent moisture management. The recycled ePTFE material and microfleece lining work better than basic goggle bags, which trap moisture.
Since Arc'teryx discontinued the Powderface, resale prices range from $20 to $50, depending on color and condition. I found mine for $30, which is a good value given the protective features. If you prioritize weight savings and moisture control over hard-shell crush protection, or just a brand whore the Powderface remains a practical choice.
Shop the Smith Hard Case at Smith Optics for a waterproof alternative.
