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When it comes to frame shape, the winner by far is wraparound with side shields. A small but significant addition to the frames, they block light transmission from the sides, effectively giving you tunnel vision. Side shields are particularly important in snowy, icy, or high-altitude environments where light reflects off various surfaces, creating glare from all angles.
Not only do side shields block sunlight, but they also act as a barrier against wind and debris. When you are hiking in harsh weather or windy conditions, side shields can keep your eyes protected from blowing snow, ice particles, or dust, minimising discomfort and keeping your vision crystal clear.
Side shields can be either built-in or detachable. Built-in side shields usually provide a more seamless and better coverage, making sure no light slips into your view from the sides. However, detachable side shields are a great choice for adaptability and flexibility, as you can pop them on or off as the weather requires.
One of the most popular options is the Oakley Clifden. As well as the Unobtanium side shields, they are also equipped with a bridge blocker, meaning that no sun, wind or elements will find their way into your line of vision. These can also be purchased with a choice of Prizm Snow lenses, which are a game changer in the mountains.
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Whether you are dealing with mist, snow, or blinding sunlight, high altitudes can often mean impaired vision without the right protection. Lens technology and coatings can enhance visual clarity and depth perception, for even the most challenging conditions.
Oakley Prizm technology is one of the best lenses on the market. Specially designed to enhance colour and contrast, Oakley have developed lenses specific to sports and environments. For mountaineering we would suggest any Prizm Snow lens, as these are built to detect textures and obstacles, in icy and snowy conditions.
We would recommend a darker lens like the Prizm Snow Black Iridium for sunny conditions, and a lighter lens such as the Prizm Snow Jade Iridium for more cloudy settings.
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Julbo Reactiv Photochromic lenses automatically lighten and darken depending on the level of light in your environment. Julbo’s version is the fastest changing on the market, making them ideal for mountaineers who may experience fluctuating weather conditions and varying light intensities. Reactiv lenses adapt instantaneously, saving you the hassle of changing lenses.
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Polarised lenses are a huge selling point for outdoor enthusiasts, but are they the right choice for mountaineering? The answer is: it depends.
Polarised lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces, such as the snow, which can be particularly helpful in where the sun’s rays bounce off the surface, resulting in intense glare. In the mountains, this can make polarised lenses seem an attractive option, significantly reducing eye strain and improving visual clarity in bright conditions.
However, polarised lenses are not always the best choice in this situation. Polarisation can sometimes distort depth perception, making it harder to read certain surfaces and contours. For example, it can sometimes obscure icy patches or subtle changes in snow texture, which could be dangerous if you’re navigating difficult terrain. They can also affect how you see your digital devices, whether that’s a GPS or your phone.
If you know you’ll be encountering a lot of bright light, polarised lenses might be a good option. But if you’re expecting mild conditions or you have a difficult route ahead, we would recommend you skip the polarisation.
Photochromic lenses may be a better option. These lenses adjust automatically to changes in light conditions, darkening in bright light and becoming clearer in low-light environments. This makes them perfect for mountaineers who often face unpredictable weather and variable lighting.
If you wear prescription glasses, we have a wide range of prescription friendly frames suitable for mountaineering. Our in-house lab can fit custom made lenses to your prescription. Simply choose the frame you want, click ‘ADD PRESCRIPTION LENSES’ and follow the steps. This ensures that you get all the benefits from your sunglasses, without compromising on vision.
Lens misting/fogging is a common inconvenience when mountaineering, as your body heat meets the cold air. Many mountaineering frames come with small vents and built-in airflow systems to help to reduce fogging and keep your lenses crisp. A well-ventilated frame allows air to flow through without letting in too much wind, keeping your lenses clear even during steep climbs. This can make all the difference on difficult climbs.
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- Side Shields prevent against wind and debris entering your vision from the side
- Prizm Snow Black Iridium is the one of the best mountaineering lenses, increasing depth and colour perception in the snow
- Detachable strap reduces the chance of dropping, or them falling off
- Side Shields prevent against wind and debris entering your vision from the side
- Hi-Altitude lenses are perfect for mountaineering, providing clear and sharp vision, adapting to the varying light conditions typical of high elevations
- Lightweight at 39g, you will forget you are even wearing them
- Removable side shields prevent against wind and debris entering your vision from the side
- Thermogrip rubber on the temple tips provides a secure fit
- Phantom lenses offer excellent clarity
- CustomFIT temples with precise and long-lasting adjustment, combined with a Grip Tech structure, produce a tailor-made grip and a lightweight spec
- Removable 3D nose
- Panoramic lens creates an energetic style while giving you protection and visual comfort thanks to REACTIV Photochromic lenses
