A fleece-lined external pocket sits on the front of your pack, giving you grab-and-go access to your goggles without unzipping the main compartment. It's ideal if you frequently take your goggles off during lift rides or lunch breaks and want to stash them quickly without digging through your bag.
The trade-off is that an external pocket offers slightly less protection from impacts compared to an internal pocket. If you take a spill or bump into something, your goggles are more exposed on the outside of the pack. The fleece lining still prevents scratches, but it won't cushion against crushing forces the way a pocket buried inside the pack would.
This option works best for resort skiers who value convenience and quick access over maximum protection. If you're carrying spare goggles or tend to be rough on your gear, an internal pocket might be the safer bet.