Searching for the best sunglasses for backcountry skiing and ski touring this winter? For ski tourers, having a combination of great ski goggles and sunglasses on hand is key for adapting to varying conditions as the weather can change quickly in the mountains!
Factors to consider when choosing sunglasses for ski touring
1. Lens Type and Quality
Backcountry conditions vary from bright sunlight to overcast or whiteout situations. A poor lens choice can make your vision challenging, and cause unwanted eye strain as the day goes on.
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A high-quality Cat. 4 lens will ensure visual clarity, reduce eye strain, provide 100% UVA/B protection, and enhance your experience in the mountains.
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A polycarbonate lens is an optimal choice thanks to its shatterproof properties, aiding both performance and safety.
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A brown or grey tint is often chosen as these tints provide natural color contrast.
2. Lens Coatings
Snow reflects up to 90% of solar radiation, often dazzling our eyes. Advanced lens coatings such as a mirror coating reduce glare in glacial environments (and have the added bonus of extra style). Anti-fog and scratch-resistant treatments will help to protect your lenses in the long term, as well as keeping your vision clear in demanding conditions when your perspiration rate increases.
3. Frame Material and Durability
Backcountry sunglasses must handle tough conditions while staying lightweight. Frames made from durable, impact-resistant materials such as Swiss-invented TR90® or nylon-based materials are excellent in varying temperatures, and for withstanding rugged wear. The ski touring sunglasses you choose should perform season after season.
4. Comfort and Protection
A secure, comfortable fit is vital in the backcountry. Whether you are undertaking a one-day summit, or a longer hut-to-hut tour, having sunglasses that provide all day comfort and security are essential. Pay attention to:
- The fit of the frame
- The weight of the sunglasses (24g - 34g is optimal)
- The flexibility of the temples and any pressure behind your ears
- The comfort and airflow around your nose
Added features like leather side shields protect against UV rays, wind, and cold - letting you focus on your safety and enjoyment!
VALLON’s Top Picks
Watchtowers™ Dark Grey-Silver
Shield sunglasses at the cutting edge of sustainable ski touring eye protection. Choose the Watchtowers™ for eye-catching 80s style.
Technical specs:
- Shield shatterproof polycarbonate lens from leading lens expert Carl Zeiss
- Full mirror coating and ZEISS RiPel (anti-oleophobic) coating
- Cat. 3 13-14% VLT (100% UVA/B protection)
- Sustainable frame (made of 85% fishing nets)
- Soft rubber temple ends, and 3x interchangeable silicone nose pads
- Lightweight: 32g
What our customers have to say:
“They are everything I hoped for. Like goggles without the band, I have full sun protection and the least blindspots I've ever had. Thank you.” - Joseph B., USA
“Vallon watchtowers model has a unique retro style, it is very comfortable, and Zeiss lense is very relaxing for eyes. All my friends and family love it and it fits to everybody, very good job!” - Laurent C., France
“The best. Buy them, you won’t be disappointed.” - Stephen R., England
Heron Glacier
Our classic alpine silhouette upgraded with leading sports technology. Heron Glacier are perfect for ski touring and pushing your boundaries this winter.
Technical specs:
- Shatterproof polycarbonate lenses
- Full mirror, anti-fog and scratch-resistant coatings
- Cat. 4 5-7% VLT (100% UVA/B protection)
- TR90® frame with fully adjustable temple ends
- Leather side shields
- Removable centre nosepiece
- Super lightweight: 25g
What our customers have to say:
“Lightweight, comfortable, and secure. They handled the mountain environment perfectly. The design offers great clarity and sun protection, making them ideal for outdoor adventures.” - Facility L., Belgium
“Life changing - After half a year of using them daily, I can affirm these glasses are just perfect for me. I have a condition that cause a strong sensibility to light in any form and it's not easy to manage this every day. I bought the Heron Mountain with the hope to rest my eyes a little bit more than with regular sunglasses and I wasn't disappointed. They have almost replaced my regular glasses and I never go outside without them.” - Aspen, Switzerland
“These are great. They keep the sun out of your eyes and they make you look cool as heck. I would like them in all colors and variations. Big fan.” - Ellen V., USA
Ventures
Sustainable and versatile lightweight sports sunglasses. Ventures are ideal for those who are ski touring at sunrise, and trail running at sun-down.
Technical specs:
- VALLON’s V52® nylon polyamide lenses for excellent visual acuity
- Mirror coating
- Cat. 3 9-16% VLT (100% UVA/B protection)
- BioTR90® frame (45% organic materials) and rubber nose pads
- Super lightweight: 26g
What our customers have to say:
“Not my first pair of VALLONs but def my favs! Really like the shape and that they are so lightweight.” - Robert H., Netherlands
“The Ventures are great sunglasses - light frames and wonderful lenses make these a fantastic all rounder for every occasion.” - Vivienne L., Switzerland
Vizor
Ditch the sunglasses, and add some classic 80s style to your ski touring outfit this winter with the VALLON Vizor!
Technical specs:
- Cat. 4 polycarbonate vizor
- VALLON-striped towel headband
- Soft memory foam liner
What our customers have to say:
“The vizor rulez. Excellent and iconic.” - Oliver G., Germany
“Love this item. High quality that will last.” - Adrian V., Canada
