Our Founder Dr. Bob Smith – Inventor. Skier. Icon.
An orthodontist with a passion for powder, Dr. Bob Smith revolutionized snowsports from his kitchen table. Frustrated by fogged-up goggles, he used dental tools, glue, and foam to create the first-ever anti-fog, double-lens ski goggle.
He tested them in chest-deep powder, traded them for lift tickets at Alta, and filed the first patent in 1966—kickstarting a legacy of innovation.
Bob wasn’t just an inventor. He was the original ski bum—living for the descent and changing the way we see the mountain.
A Heritage of Innovation
Since day 1 innovation has been the heartbeat of Smith—born on the mountain and built in the lab. From game-changing goggles to groundbreaking eyewear, we’ve never stopped pushing what’s possible.
60-70s - The modern day snow goggle is born...
with the first-ever thermo-sealed, anti-fog snow goggle. A revolution in vision begins—crafted by a skier, for skiers. Smith goggles become a must-have on the slopes, gaining loyal fans in powder-rich communities.
70-80s: An instant icon
Smith pushes lens technology forward, introducing new materials and active venting systems with the launch of the instantly iconic Turbofan. Performance eyewear evolves to meet the demands of a growing outdoor community.
80-90- Let’s roll
In 1984 SMITH patents the Roll Off film advance system for moto goggles giving riders mud and dust-free vision on demand.
90-00 - The first to change
SMITH invents the first interchangeable lens systems for sunglasses with the Slider 01 becoming a leader in adaptable performance gear.
00- 10s- Change is easy
I/O goggle—the first snow goggle with intuitive interchangeable lenses. Refining how riders adapt to changing conditions and setting a new benchmark in goggle design.
‘10-’20s: A decade of Next level perception
With the introduction of Birdseye technology in the 4D Mag and ChromaPop™ lens technology - SMITH delivers unmatched clarity and color expanding the limits of field of view - setting a new industry standard.
Smith expands into helmets, uniting protection, style, and performance.
A perfect fit
Debuting the first-to-market custom crafted 3D printed snow goggle. Which addressed the vast range of face shapes and features while eliminating the one-size fits all approach to gear.
Fueled by Curiosity, Proven by 50+ Patents
From the first thermo-sealed snow goggle to the first interchangeable lens sunglasses, SMITH has led with purpose-driven innovation. With over 50 utility patents, every breakthrough reflects our commitment to solving real problems for real riders.
The History of the Forefront 3 Helmet
From concept sketches to the final product, learn how the Forefront has evolved and improved to bring you the Forefront 3.