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Hey fellow climbers! As we all know, the right gear can make or break a day in the mountains, and let’s be honest: no one wants to squint at a breathtaking view or trail their own shadow because of the wrong shades. After battling the sun on countless crags, I thought it was high time to share my top three favorite climbing sunglasses that not only protect my peepers but also look stylish enough to make me feel like a rock star (even when I’m just flailing up a hillside).
In this post, I’ll be giving you the lowdown on my top picks, along with a handy buyer’s guide, so you can find the perfect pair to match your climbing adventures. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
- Julbo Shield M
- Smith Wildcat
- Oakley Clifden
Julbo Shield M
Hey fellow climbers and mountaineers!
I’ve recently had the chance to put the Julbo Shield M sunglasses to the test, and let me tell you, my experience was as enlightening as a sunrise summit. Now, before you all start thinking I’m getting commission from Julbo (I wish!), let me share my honest take.
- Fit and Comfort: These should come with a warning label: “So comfy you might forget you’re wearing them.” Seriously, even after a grueling day on the rock face, my ears and nose weren’t screaming for mercy. That’s a win in my book!
- Lens Quality: The reactive lenses are like magic. Bright sun? No worries! Overcast? Bring it on! The lenses adapt quicker than my climbing buddy’s excuses to bail on a climb.
- Durability: Being a bit of a klutz, I’ve dropped these more times than I’d like to admit. Luckily, they’ve held up like a champ – no screeches of despair as they tumbled off my pack. Bottom line: they’re tougher than my last climbing season.
- Style Points: Yes, function over fashion is our mantra, but looking good while not falling off a mountain never hurt anyone, right? These sunglasses get nods of approval at base camp – they have that cool, edgy vibe that says, “I climb mountains and dodge style faux pas.”
Personal Experience: One of my more memorable hikes involved facing off with an unexpected glacier sun reflection. I kid you not, these Julbo Shields handled it so well, I half-expected a standing ovation from my corneas. Instead, I settled for clearer vision and an extra serving of trail mix at the summit stop.
In summary, the Julbo Shield M might just become your new BFF on climbs. Or at least until it becomes socially acceptable to climb with a pet goat. Who knows? Until then, happy climbing, and may your holds be solid and your vistas epic!
Smith Wildcat
Just spent my weekend scaling some pretty gnarly cliffs, and I’ve got to shout about my new favorite companion: the Smith Wildcat sunglasses. Now, I’ve had my fair share of sun blockers, but these bad boys are something else. So, if you’re up for a chuckle and a good dose of honest feedback, stick with me!
First things first, comfort. Do you know how many times I’ve had to stop mid-climb just to adjust sliding sunglasses? More than I’d like to admit. But the Wildcat? Stuck to my nose like it was born there. Not a single slip! It’s like having a second skin that actually blocks the sun instead of just being an expensive headband. And let’s admit it, with climbing, it’s not just the vertical rock face that’s precarious – it’s also keeping your gear from becoming a casualty to gravity.
The lenses? The clarity is sooooo spick-and-span, it’s like having 20/20 vision – which, let’s be honest, I don’t without these magic specs. They sharpened the sunlit rocks and shadowy crevices like I was wearing glasses straight from the lab of Peter Parker. I half-expected to develop some kind of Spidey sense.
I particularly appreciated this when I spotted a sneaky snake chilling on a ledge just above me – crisis averted, folks!
Another thing I like is their rock-solid durability. I’ve had sunglasses that wouldn’t survive a sneeze, let alone some rough outdoors. But Smith Wildcat shrugged off a rather aggressive branch that decided to ninja-attack my face. Who knew you had to be wary of twig ambushes on mountains, huh?
They also come with interchangeable lenses. Imagine being James Bond with a license to… switch lenses! Yeah, it’s that cool. You get a clear option for those overcast days or dark descent scenarios after the sun’s clocked out. I heard someone comparing them to “tech Transformers” and honestly, I’m buying it.
But let’s get real for a second. Style matters. The Wildcats are undoubtedly my most fashion-forward piece of equipment since that utterly majestic neon orange climbing helmet purchase last year (still proud, still bright).
Last word? If you’ve got a soft spot for adventures that don’t involve squinting into the abyss, check these out. They’re my wild cat on the wall, keeping it cool while I get my climb on. Speaking of cats, someone remind me to find that snake’s autograph next time – I owe my Wildcat one!
Oakley Clifden
So, after being blinded by the sun atop many a peak and fumbling with my old, scratched sunglasses (which were practically antiques), I finally caved and got myself a pair of Oakley Clifden sunglasses. All I can say is, where have these been all my life?!
First Impressions: Sleek, stylish, and surprisingly lighter than I expected. I mean, who knew you could look this good while huffing and puffing your way up a mountain? But it’s not just about the looks—though they are quite snazzy—I was more impressed by the functionality.
Performance: The lenses on these babies are nothing short of a miracle. Oakley’s Prizm technology has genuinely changed the way I see the world. I felt like everything around me just got a boost in color saturation and clarity. And let me tell you, spotting that elusive handhold has never been easier. Plus, the anti-fog gasket system is like having a personal window de-mister. No more wiping fogged-up lenses while precariously perched on a ledge with nothing but a sheer drop below—trust me, that’s not an experience you want to repeat.
Funny story: While climbing, a fellow mountaineer actually stopped me and asked if I was part of some secret climber squad because of how high-tech they looked. I might have responded with a wink and some vague comment about MI6 training in the Alps—but hey, you only live once!
Comfort: The removable side shields are a godsend for windy days when it feels like Mother Nature’s trying to whip your face clean off. And for those of you who wrestle glaciers, the adjustable nose pads give the comfort level a gold star. It’s like having a customized pillow for your nose. Who knew that was a thing I needed in my life?
- Cons? They are a bit on the pricier side, so my wallet did feel the burn before I even hit the outdoors. But look at it this way: you’re investing in not flashing the entire mountainside with cartoon-style googly eyes because the sun’s blinding you.
- Pro tip: If you’re the forgetful type (like yours truly), the integrated leash is sheer genius. I’ve lost countless sunnies during climbs, but with these bad boys—no more panic when I turn my head too suddenly and hear that dreaded clatter of lost shades.
So, if you’re looking to up your eye protection game, while also pretending to be a secret agent on a mountaineering mission, the Oakley Clifden might just be your new best friend. Now if only they made boots to match…
Best Climbing Sunglasses Buyer’s Guide
So, you’re on the hunt for the best climbing sunglasses? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s face it, when you’re hanging onto a rock face for dear life, the last thing you want to worry about is being blinded by the sun. Trust me, managing chalk, ropes, and general survival is enough. Here’s a rundown to help you make a decision and keep you looking cooler than a yeti in aviators.
1. UV Protection: Think of UV protection as sunscreen for your eyeballs. It’s that important. You wouldn’t head to the crag without sunscreen, so don’t skimp on this either. Look for sunglasses with at least UV400 protection. This ensures your peepers are guarded against 99-100% of the sun’s harmful rays.
2. Lens Material: You need lenses that can take a beating. Trust me, rocks bite. Polycarbonate lenses are the go-to for us adventurous types. They are lightweight, impact-resistant, and perfect for when you’ve got to throw them in your duffel bag hurriedly after a climb.
3. Polarization: Some climbers swear by polarized lenses because they reduce glare. However, they might make it a bit trickier to see things like icy patches on rock surfaces. It’s a trade-off, but personally, I prefer not to deal with the midday glare when I’m belaying on a sunny day.
4. Fit and Comfort: You want sunglasses that feel like an extension of your face – not some alien device suction-cupped to your eyes. Look for features like adjustable nose pads and temples. Test them out by trying a few awkward positions (as you do when you’re climbing) in the shop. If they stay put without causing minor headaches, you’re golden.
5. Lens Tint: Lens color isn’t just a fashion statement (though who doesn’t want to look like a rockstar on the rocks?). Different tints are designed for different conditions:
- Gray: Best for bright sunny conditions.
- Brown/Amber: Enhances contrast, making them great if you’re on mixed terrain.
- Yellow/Orange: Good for low light conditions, perfect for clouds or approaching-the-end escapades.
6. Style: While practicality is paramount, let’s be honest – style matters too. Whether you fancy going full retro, or modern and sleek, picking sunglasses that reflect your personality can make you feel invincible out there. Just don’t let the mountain see this newfound confidence; it has a way of humbling folks.
Personal tip: I once scaled a decent pitch with a pair of gas station sunglasses. They did not survive and neither did my confidence when I descended only to hear the mocking tones of my crew. Invest in a pair that won’t shatter at the first sign of a forehead collision with the rock face. Learn from my faux pas!
Finally, consider brands that offer friendly return policies. Sometimes the relationship with your new gear doesn’t work out, and like ill-fitting climbing shoes, it’s better to let ’em go. Happy climbing, and remember: good shades lead to even cooler stories. And if nothing else, at least you’ll look great in summit selfies!
I’ve definitely been around the block (or should I say – boulder?) with sunglasses, and let’s just say I’ve made a fair share of “shady” purchases along the way 😂. Here are a few more tips for anyone eyeing their next pair:
- Polarized Lenses for the Win! 🌞: They cut glare, which is perfect if you’re climbing near reflective surfaces like snow, water, or, you know, that mysterious shiny rock you’ve never seen before.
- Color Matters: 🕶️ Did you know the lens color isn’t just for fashion? Brown and amber lenses enhance contrast in various conditions – ideal for spotting those tricky holds on a cloudy day.
- Consider the Fit: It’s a pain in the butt (and on your ears) when your sunglasses don’t fit just right. Adjustable nose pads and temple grips can make a world of difference when you’re dangling mid-crux.
- Take Test Runs: 🏃♂️ If possible, try them out for a light hike or a day out before your next big climb. Nothing worse than realizing they’re foggy or pinchy halfway up a cliff!
And never underestimate the power of a good tether. Sunglasses that decide to chart their own course down a cliff… let’s just say the mountain always wins that round! 😅 Keep exploring and climbing safe!
Ah, climbing and sunglasses – two things that go together like chalk and hands! 😎 Here are a few fun insights to add some clarity when you’re searching for that next pair of shades:
- Avoid the Raccoon Look: 🐼 Ever finish a climb and take off your glasses to see tan lines that scream, “I was wearing sunglasses”? Wraparound designs can give better coverage and help avoid that silly look!
- Light vs. Shade: 🌤️ If your adventures take you from bright, sunlit areas to shady forested trails, consider photochromic lenses. They adjust automatically to brightness, so you won’t have to switch pairs mid-climb.
- Accessorize Yourself 🎒: If your sunglasses come with removable side shields, use them strategically! They’re a godsend in high glare environments and can be stowed away when not needed.
- Eco-friendly Options: 🌍 Some brands are pushing for sustainability with materials used in frames and lenses. So you can rock climb guilt-free, knowing you’ve helped reduce your footprint.
Climbing safely with the right eye gear just makes the views from the top that much more spectacular! 🏔️ Keep those eyes protected and happy adventuring!
Ahoy there, fellow mountain goats and crag aficionados! 🏔️ So, you’re on the hunt for the perfect pair of climbing sunglasses, huh? Well, buckle up, because I’m here to drop some extra nuggets of wisdom into your gear bag. Here’s a little peek into my sunglasses survival kit:
- DIY Anti-Fog Magic: 🧙♂️ If you find yourself frequently in a foggy predicament, apply a bit of liquid dish soap to the inside of your lenses. Let it dry and wipe with a microfiber cloth. Voilà – clearer climbs ahead!
- Ultralight is the Right Light: 🪶 Long, grueling climbs deserve a pair of shades that won’t weigh you down. Opt for frames that are lightweight yet durable. Your nose will thank you!
- Lens Swap Game Strong: 🔄 Master the art of swapping lenses. Twin your frames with interchangeable lens options for those moody weather days. It’s like having a Swiss army knife for your face!
- Explore the Sunglass Index: 🕵️♀️ Look for an EN 1836:2005 compliance label, which indicates great UV protection. It’s a bit technical, but trust me, your retinas will appreciate the research.
And remember, the best “frame” of mind when climbing is a safe and stylish one. May your climbs be epic, your holds solid, and your sunshades cooler than an ice-cold drink after a day on the rocks! 🍹🤙
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