Sunglasses for Mountain Climbing: Eye Protection and Glare Reduction for Climbers
As mountain climbers, we understand the importance of protecting our eyes from the harsh elements of the great outdoors. Sunglasses are an essential piece of gear that can make a significant difference in our climbing experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of wearing sunglasses while mountain climbing, and highlight some top picks for climbers.
Eye Protection
When climbing in the mountains, the sun’s glare can be blindingly intense. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight without proper eye protection can lead to discomfort, squinting, and even long-term damage to our eyes. Sunglasses provide a physical barrier between your eyes and the sun’s harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye diseases.
According to Dr. Michael Abrams, an optometrist at Fantastic Glasses, “Wearing sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection can help prevent these issues and keep your eyes healthy while climbing.”
Glare Reduction
In addition to eye protection, sunglasses also reduce glare from snow, water, and rocks. This is especially crucial when navigating steep terrain or scanning for potential hazards like crevasses. By reducing the intensity of reflected light, sunglasses enable you to see more clearly and accurately, giving you a better understanding of your surroundings.
Recommended Sunglasses for Climbers
When choosing sunglasses for mountain climbing, consider the following factors:
1. Polarization: This feature reduces glare from reflective surfaces like water and snow.
2. UV protection: Ensure the lenses offer 100% UVA and UVB protection to safeguard your eyes.
3. Lens material: Polycarbonate or Trivex lenses are lightweight, impact-resistant, and provide excellent optical clarity.
Based on these criteria, here are two top picks for mountain climbers:
1. Oakley Flak Jacket: A popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts, the Oakley Flak Jacket offers polarization, UV protection, and a durable design that can withstand harsh conditions.
2. Smith Optics ChromaPop: These sunglasses feature polarized lenses with excellent glare reduction, as well as 100% UVA and UVB protection. The ChromaPop’s lightweight frame is perfect for extended wear during climbs.
Conclusion
Sunglasses are an essential piece of gear for mountain climbers. By protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays and reducing glare, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable and safe climbing experience. When choosing sunglasses for climbing, look for polarization, UV protection, and lightweight lens materials. For top recommendations, check out Oakley Flak Jacket and Smith Optics ChromaPop.
References:
1. Fantastic Glasses, “Sunglasses for Outdoor Enthusiasts”
2. OutdoorGearLab, “The Best Sunglasses for Hiking and Climbing”
References:
https://fantasticglasses.ca