Skiing is a winter sport, but that doesn’t mean it’s always cloudy out on the slopes. In fact, in some parts of the world, it’s sunny for most of the winter season. Though that can be a bit annoying, fear not. There are many great sunglasses you can take with you out onto a bright, snow-covered peak.
In this guide, we will break down some of the best skiing sunglasses on the market in order to explain the different features and attributes that set them apart.
One or two differences may not seem like a big deal, but they truly matter once you’re braving the elements. Each of the following models brings something unique to the table, and that is why they truly go above and beyond.
Let’s see which one is right for you.
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Who Should Get This?
Any skier, especially those who love ski touring, who have a tough time seeing on the slopes can use a good pair of sunglasses. A good model is not just adept at blocking out the sun, it also provides extra protection against the cold and snow.
While the following models won’t give you the same protection as goggles, they still offer enough to make seeing in the snow that much easier.
Skiing sunglasses are also perfect for those with sensitive eyes. Snow can be blinding in both bright and overcast conditions. If you have issues with such environments, a solid pair of sunglasses can give you extra protection.
The Best Sunglasses for Skiing Reviewed
Below is a list of my top recommendations along with a quick review of each pair of ski sunglasses. The goal is to help you get to know the pros and cons of each product so you can make a more informed purchase decision.
1. Best All-Around: Oakley Holbrook
The Oakley Holbrooks are the gold standard when it comes to skiing sunglasses. While they don’t come cheap, their ample features make them worth the price.
The glasses are comfortable, thanks to their 3-point fit, and have a unique 6 base lens curvature that provides incredible peripheral vision. They are also quite durable and come with impact protection that keeps them intact during a fall or crash.
These glasses are for skiers who care about quality and features. They are polarized, comfortable, and come with built-in impact protection.
What We Like:
- Great peripheral vision
- 6 base lens curvature
- Polarized iridium
- 3-point fit
- Incredibly comfortable
- Impact protection
- Many available colors
- Flexible, will stand up to a crash or fall
What We Do Not Like:
- Nothing. These are the best all-around skiing sunglasses on the market
==> You can also get it on Oakley or FramesDirect or DICK’S.
2. Most Durable: Vuarnet VL Sunglasses
If you’re someone who doesn’t want to get new sunglasses each season, the Vuarnet VL Sunglasses are for you. This option is not just tough, it is also resistant to scratches, dents, dings, and shocks.
The tough material holds up to any and all conditions, while the leather buffers keep wind and snow out of your eyes. They are quite expensive, but the sturdy construction and sophisticated look make them great for skiers who want premium shades.
The shades utilize special leather side buffers to block out wind and snow, while the tough construction stands up to any fall. They are both scratch and shock-resistant. The ear loops keep them in place and the highly transparent, zero-distortion lenses allow you to see in all climates.
What We Like:
- Strong UV protection
- No distortion
- Sophisticated design
- Leather buffers to block wind
- Incredibly durable
- Shock resistant
- Ear loops provide a solid fit
- Highly transparent lenses
- Unique, eye-catching design
What We Do Not Like:
- Limited color options
- Ear loops not as durable as rest of the construction
==> You can get it on Vuarnet.
3. Most Versatile: Julbo Explorer2
Bright, comfortable, and innovative, the Julbo Explorer2 Sunglasses are all about versatility. These handy shades are not just tough, they also can switch between category 2 and category 4.
The REACTIV chameleon lens enables you to shift your tint based on the outside conditions, which allows you to freely adapt to your surroundings. On top of that, these glasses are durable and come with a strong anti-fog coating.
On top of that, the nose padding works with the shock-absorbing design to make these a great fit for skiers who value comfort as they zip around at high speeds.
What We Like:
- Extremely versatile
- REACTIVE chameleon lens
- Durable lenses
- Comfortable
- Anti-fog coating
- Polarizing filter cuts down on glare
- Wide lens offers great view
- Fun color design
- Lifetime warranty
What We Do Not Like:
- Expensive
- Scratches more easily that similar brands
==> You can also get it on Sport Eyes or Lepape or EMS.
4. Best Lightweight: Torege Polarized Sport Sunglasses
Though not specifically marketed at skiers, the Torege Polarized Sport Sunglasses are perfect for both the resort and the backcountry thanks to their sturdy, lightweight construction.
These glasses come with 3 interchangeable lenses, all of which offer 100 percent UV protection, and are hardly noticeable while you ski. They are also impact resistant and utilize a soft rubber nose pad for added comfort. The rimless jacket frame design looks great as well.
These glasses are quite tough, being both impact and scratch-resistant, and the lightweight frame won’t hold you back. In fact, most of the time you won’t even notice they’re on. The three interchangeable frames are great for those who like choices, while the rimless design works for skiers who want a sleek look.
What We Like:
- Rimless jacket frame design
- Tough and durable
- Impact-resistant
- Scratch-resistant
- Three interchangeable lenses
- Slim, lightweight design
- Soft nose pad adds to comfort
- Multiple available colors
What We Do Not Like:
- Not everyone will use included lenses
- Nose pad not as sturdy as rest of the design
==> You can also get it on Walmart.