When the slopes are covered in snow, I can already envision myself grabbing my skis and spending the entire day enjoying it while alternating between being at the top and bottom of the hill. Even though the snow is lovely when it shines, the light is almost always too intense for me.
Therefore, I think this is the perfect time to discuss the top ski sunglasses. The process of choosing sunglasses for skiing may appear pretty simple. Essentially, we frequently pick our glasses based on how they seem at first glance, regardless of how well they fit us. However, there are several aspects to take into account before making a choice, and not all of them are connected to beauty.
Yes, I agree that you cannot get a pair of terrible ski sunglasses since it’s important to feel good about yourself while enjoying a rigorous and difficult activity like skiing. But you must also choose a pair of ski-specific sunglasses that meet the required specifications. We’ll begin searching for those ski sunglasses that you will love and make you look like a true Megastar on the slopes and be quite professional.
Related: Types Of Skis: Which One Should You Buy?
7 Best Sunglasses For Skiing In 2024
Here are my favorite picks, curated just for you!
What Are Skiing Sunglasses?
Ski sunglasses aid in shielding your eyes from UV light, which is more intense at high elevations and when there is a lot of shiny snow.
It’s good to have slightly less restrictive eye protection with better ventilation, especially while hiking in the woods. Sunglasses may also be a fun and fashionable option for bluebird days on the mountain, especially as spring riding season approaches.
Are Sunglasses For Skiing Worth It?
Definitely, sunglasses are acceptable on warmer, clearer days or if you want to engage in other activities after hitting the slopes, even though snow goggles are typically a superior, safer option for skiing and snowboarding. In addition to being more lightweight than goggles, sunglasses can be customized to meet your prescription.
What Qualities Are Important In Ski Sunglasses?
When selecting a pair of ski sunglasses, I consider coverage, lens technology, and style. Coverage is critical for protecting your eyes and preventing wind from hurting your eyes during high-speed descents.
Lens technology is especially vital in what might be blindingly bright snow conditions. Varied levels of polarization or specific colors, such as Smith’s ChromaPop, might offer different benefits for skiing situations. Because, of course, style is essential.
Also read: Best Mogul Skis For The Season
1 . Oakley Holbrook – Best Overall
If you ever want a pair of sunglasses manufactured by a snowboarding icon like Shaun White, then Oakley Holbrook is for you. Although I know we are talking about ski sunglasses, who said a single pair of sports sunglasses couldn’t be worn in a range of settings?
The Oakley Holbrook is a classic frame that will maintain your sense of style no matter the season. This Oakley design stands out as the best option when discussing casual sunglasses.
Even though there are several frame options available, including metal frames, fake wood grain, black camouflage, a partially transparent polycarbonate, and more, I choose the Holbrooks’ uncomplicated appearance.
The arms of the Holbrooks are angled in as they move from your eyes back to your ears to create a snug fit. They have lovely, flexible frames. The Prizm Ruby lenses offer a 17% reduction in light transmission, making them an excellent all-purpose lens that works well in both strong sunlight and thin clouds. They are a little too dark for an entirely cloudy day.
Due to their small weight (only 28 grams), you won’t even realize that you are wearing sunglasses.
Specs
- meets the requirements of ANSI Z87.1 for high-velocity impact protection.
- A snug fit is guaranteed by the wide arms and keyhole bridge with Three-Point Fit.
- Visible Oakley logo on broad arms.
- Hinges with spring tension and metal rivets.
- Plutonite lenses offer complete UV protection up to 400 nm.
Why Are These The Best Sunglasses For Skiing In 2024?
The Oakley Holbrook is a timeless frame that will keep you fashionable. This is Oakley’s top recommendation for casual sunglasses. This frame stands out from the competition thanks to a traditional keyhole nose bridge and rivet accents.
Related: Trouble-Free Ways To Remove Rust From Ski Edges
2 . The Smith’s Wildcat – Runner Up
Beautiful sunglasses from Smith are the Wildcats! It’s tough not to fall in love with them, given the understated yet sophisticated look they suggest. It also offers a ton of benefits when taking into account its top features.
You won’t encounter sweat impeding your vision or lens fogging with anti-fog coating, and let’s not forget that you’ll also look really cool. The adjustable frame makes it straightforward to switch between the two lenses. They have two lenses—one colorful and one clear—included.
The 5-base cylindrical lens on the Wildcat lives up to Smith’s reputation for making excellent lenses. They provide three versions with their recognizable Chromapop lens for various lighting situations.
Additionally, I must note how awesome the mirrored lenses look. Another consideration for these sunglasses is their comfort. You will feel amazing wearing these and won’t need another pair of sunglasses because you may use them in any circumstance. Given that they weigh only 32 grams, the Wildcat entirely leaves your mind. Since it is the major concentration on the slopes, you won’t feel them and will only be focused on what you are doing.
Additionally, the Wildcat adheres to the goggle glasses trend by providing adequate coverage and protection during high-speed activities. I hope you’ll be pleased to learn that these sunglasses also contain polycarbonate lenses, which are one of the largest on the market at 135mm wide and 62mm high.
Specs
- To make the details stand out, ChromaPop lenses boost contrast and organic color.
- Clear optics and a coating that resists smudges and moisture make cleaning simple.
- Complete UV protection.
- Large coverage with a medium fit.
- A lens with a 5-base cylinder.
- Adjustable nose pads with two positions.
3 . The Sunski Dipsea – Budget Pick
The lightweight Sunski Dipsea polarized sunglasses have Sidekicks that block glare while not obstructing your excellent peripheral vision. They also have a comfortable rubber nose pad for life’s turbulent rides. At around $95, The Treelines are significantly less expensive than the glacially slow options offered by other companies, yet they still come with practically all of the premium features.
They have polarized lenses to reduce glare, polycarbonate frames, durable steel hinges, and anti-scratch lens coating. Sunski will replace the frames for free and at a discounted price if you damage the frames. SuperLight recycled plastic, a material they developed, is used to build every Sunski frame. Their packaging is recyclable and contains no single-use plastic.
Specs
- Polaroid lenses.
- Removable sun protection.
- Frames made of recycled plastic.
- Included is a hard case.
4 . Vuarnet Vl Sunglasses – Premium Pick
I can vouch for Vuarnet sunglasses as the best option to shield eyes from harmful UV rays while looking fashionable. Wearing these fashionable and lightweight sunglasses, you may enjoy a beautiful day skiing without even realizing you are wearing them. The Vuarnet VL Sunglasses frequently have a sun protection factor of 3, ensuring that you will be well-protected even in bright sunlight.
Not to add that the greatest alternative to help you when engaging in outdoor activities is polarized lenses, which have a special filter that absorbs reflected light and reduces glare.
These sunglasses are a bit pricey, but they will function well. The lightweight frames are very well built, and they have a rubber-like covering. Furthermore, they have a classic design that will never go out of style, allowing you to wear them every day, even if you are only taking a little stroll.
Specs
- The urban form serves as the inspiration for rounded sunglasses.
- The French mineral glass lens filters off UV-damaging radiation.
- Acetate eyewear with a double-bridge nose made of metal.
- Hinges with five barrels for strong durability.
- A pioneer in ski fashion is Vuarnet.
5 . Julbo Stowe
The Julbo Stowe polarized glacier sunglasses are stylish and perfect for inclement weather thanks to their modern aviator style. They have detachable side shields, gripping temple arms, and nosepieces for maximum mobility.
Furthermore, the complete covering provides the best possible sun protection in challenging conditions, and the ergonomic design and curved temples provide a snug fit on the head and face.
You may take the cloth side shields off to give these finest skiing sunglasses a look more in line with a mountain-modern lifestyle, as I mentioned before. With the Julbo Stowe Polarized Sunglasses, you could go skiing all day, mountain climbing in the early morning, and enjoy the sunset at your local bar—all without ever needing to change your glasses.
The full UV protection ensures that your eyes won’t hurt after a bright, sunny day on the slopes, and Julio’s Grip Tech rubber on the nose and arms ensures that you won’t lose your sunglasses when you gaze quickly over a chasm.
And let’s not overlook the wonderful lifetime warranty!
Specs
- Eye strain is decreased by polarized Spectron 3 lenses by obliterating glare from water, snow, sand, and pavement.
- Remove the cloth side shields to give these sunglasses a mountain-modern lifestyle appeal.
- These enclose the skin entirely and offer maximum sun protection in harsh conditions.
- Exclusive Hold Tech soft-comfort rubber on the nose bridge and temple arms doesn’t stick to hair, providing stability and comfort, while the curved temples and ergonomic profile provide a good grip on the face and head.
6 . The Wiley X Gravity
A gorgeous pair of sunglasses with the chameleon-like ability to fit in anywhere in the Wiley X Gravity. You can modify the frame using several flexible design elements that are included in it.
The performance frame on these sunglasses has a safety rating, making them perfect for sports and an active lifestyle. It offers eight bases of wraparound coverage and is made of lightweight, durable nylon.
The X Gravity is one of many Climate Control Series frames with flexible design elements that provide the wearer access to anything they might need at any time.
Every element is built to work together seamlessly, from the removable Facial Cavity Seal that creates an impenetrable shield between your eyes and flying debris to the optional leash cable that enhances frame retention under the most trying conditions. Rubber temple tips and nose pads also maintain the optical alignment of your eyeglasses and offer a 24/7 comfortable grip.
Specs
- Private Polarized lenses that improve color.
- ANSI Z87.1+ High-Velocity protection from impact.
- ASME Z87.1+ high mass protection from impact.
- Peripheral control of glaze.
- Control of wind.
- Control of Dust/Debris
- Superior Laser Optics.
- Prescription Ready.
7 . Julbo Explorer 2.0
The Julbo Explorer 2. 0 glacier sunglasses are ideal for all of your alpine experiences because they offer superior ventilation and a thinner design while being built for harsh environments.
For the best defense against intense sunlight in bad weather, the side shields that can be detached, screen you from the wind, sun, glare, and debris. They have photochromatic lenses, which enable them to adapt their lens color to the available light. This lens technology also offers the clearest vision over time.
The Explorer 2.0’s frame and attached side shields will map your face’s features to give exceptional coverage by obstructing all light in bright settings. You may hang Explorer 2.0 around your neck to take them off when necessary because they have adjustable ear stems and a removable neck lanyard.
Specs
- The maximum defense against intense sunlight under difficult circumstances.
- A broad field of vision provided by a large lens surface.
- Base 6
- Corrective solar lenses can be added to the frame.
- Insert that sticks to the nose and is supple and shock-absorbing.
- Natural front airflow as a result of the lens’s design or mounting system
- Maintain security. The length of the strap is movable.
- For optimal hold and comfort, flexible inserts stick to the temples.
- 360-degree movable temples: able can be bent in any direction for a personalized fit
- Side shields that are removable offer side protection from direct sunlight.
- For those who need prescription eyewear, Julbo’s RX frame offers comfort and fit.
How To Choose The Best Sunglasses For Skiing?
Ski goggles or sunglasses are necessary for skiing. The majority of skier-related eye injuries occur as a result of either bad decisions or a complete lack of eye protection. Incorrect sunglasses could cause an eye injury during a forceful fall if the lens or frame breaks. If you don’t wear them, you risk sunburn, colliding with low branches or another skier’s pole, or getting damaged by ultraviolet radiation.
The wrong lens can impair your vision and increase hidden risks, making it harder to enjoy the slopes. They are, therefore, quite crucial, and you should be careful when making your selection.
Let’s talk about all the factors you should take into account before making a purchase now that you are aware of my top selections.
Comfort
On your list of priorities, your comfort should come first. Avoid letting your shades divert your attention as you descend the slope; instead, pay attention to what you are doing.
When it comes to comfort, you should think about the materials and the design of the glasses, but you should focus most on how they feel on your face. A fantastic pair of sunglasses that perfectly suit me might not be your best choice.
Durability
Since plastic is not the most resilient material, it is chosen to construct the bulk of sunglasses designed specifically for skiing. On the market, there are several tested plastics. In addition, some materials, like metal or nylon, have a longer lifespan.
But bear in mind that plastic frames perform far better than metal ones in cold climates. In general, frame design constraints make it difficult for metal frames to fit properly around the face since they can become brittle in the cold and may break, nose pads can stab an eye, and so on.
Side Protection
As I’ve already mentioned, a pair of skiing sunglasses must have a side cover to be ideal. They are more appropriate for skiing days than sunglasses without side covers since they can filter dust, branches, and even the sun’s rays.
Fit
The main function of your skiing sunglasses is to protect your eyes from snow glare, and moisture, as well as objects like branches and other things. Therefore, only if your sunglasses are the perfect fit for your face will they give you the comfort you need to enjoy your mountain hike.
Children or people with small faces, in general, typically use small-fit sunglasses. Helmet fitting may become a little difficult because it’s possible for the little sunglasses to leave gaps between the ski helmet and the frame unintentionally.
Most people with average-sized heads and faces should be able to wear sunglasses that fit in the middle. You will have a larger field of view and a greater lens area with a large fit.
Style
The design of the ski-specific sunglasses will also affect how securely they will fit on your face, whether or not they will slide off, and whether or not they will shield your eyes from the side sun rays.
The majority of the sunglasses on the list I just gave have a traditional design, which might not have been the ideal option for skiing if they didn’t have side material that could be added to or subtracted from to make them more adaptable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this your first time skiing? Or maybe you’re just not sure what kind of sunglasses to get. Skiing sunglasses are a minefield of technical details, lens types, frame types, and prices. Here are some of the most frequently aksed questions people ask, and my answers to all of them!
What Type Of Sunglasses Should I Wear While Skiing?
Skiing (or any other outdoor activity) requires the use of fully UV-protective sunglasses, preferably with a category three or category four tint darkness. Sunglasses with UV400/40 ratings will provide adequate sun protection, while category 3 or 4 tinted lenses will provide adequate visual comfort.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eWhen surrounded by snow, ice, and water, it’s critical to protect your eyes from the harmful UV light reflected by these shiny surfaces. Bright UV light not only causes visual strain but can also permanently damage your eyes. While polarised or mirror-finish lenses are nice, if you use them for skiing, ensure they’re fully UV-protected.u003cbru003e
Are Regular Sunglasses Appropriate For Skiing?
Normal sunglasses frames are fine for skiing as long as they are completely UV-protected. On the other hand, regular sunglasses leave your face exposed to the sun, wind, and snow, which can be painful if the weather changes, as it often does in the mountains.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eIf you like to wear sunglasses when skiing, bring face protection in the shape of a neck tube, balaclava, or sports scarf in case the wind kicks up or a blizzard strikes.u003cbru003e
Is It Necessary To Wear Polarized Sunglasses While Skiing?
Skiing does not necessitate the use of polarized sunglasses. Non-polarised sunglasses are perfectly safe for skiing and snowboarding as long as they are fully UV-protected. Polarized lenses are available on many skiing sunglasses frames as a secondary and non-essential upgrade. They are used to reduce the effects of reflected glare, which you can learn more about here.u003cbru003e
Why Do People Wear Sunglasses When Skiing?
Some people use sunglasses for skiing in the spring, summer, or for ski touring since they are less noticeable on their faces. Sunglasses offer more airflow and ventilation than goggles, which seal and protect your eyes, lowering sweat.u003cbru003eu003cbru003ePeople occasionally don’t like the way goggles make them feel because it makes them feel like they’re in a fishbowl. When trying to concentrate on skiing down the hill, goggles can be distracting and even disorienting if you’re not used to wearing them. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eSunglasses can be a less restrictive option for eyewear for beginners who don’t like the feeling of wearing ski goggles, allowing you to concentrate on learning proper technique, making turns, and being aware.u003cbru003e
Which Color Lens Is Ideal For Skiing At Night?
For night skiing, a lens with a clear color is best. Full-face goggles are a good choice for protecting your eyes in windy or cold conditions. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eYou will be able to see the slope clearly because a clear color lens will transmit the maximum amount of light from overhead floodlights. Tinted goggles won’t be as effective for daytime skiing because they will obscure your field of vision!u003cbru003eu003cbru003eFor night skiing, a lens with a transparent or clear color transmits the most light from overhead floodlights, allowing you to see the slope clearly at night. Full-face goggles are a good choice for protecting your eyes and upper face in windy or cold conditions. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eGoggles or glasses with colored focal points (for standard day skiing) will not be pretty much as powerful as they’ll obscure your field of view, making it harder to see during late evening skiing.u003cbru003e
Summing Up
It’s safe to argue that you can’t ski without your skis; the same is true with sunglasses. They are an essential part of your ski equipment. Similar to when picking your ski boots or other vital ski equipment, you should consider the type of sunglasses you need for the situations you are likely to encounter, their performance qualities, their comfort, and most importantly, their safety.
We all appreciate the extreme sports around here, like skiing. We enjoy being outdoors. This is because we would otherwise not be here talking gear or extreme sports.
We should feel relaxed and at ease while engaging in our activities since adrenaline enhances, enlivens, and completes our lives. It is impossible to enjoy your skiing days if there is too much light in your eyes.
The conditions on the slopes are even worse when it comes to the comfort of the eyes than walking down the street in the sun. In case you can’t pick from my list of the best ski sunglasses, I hope you now know what to look for when deciding which pair is right for you.
Happy skiing!
