Buckle up, my fellow powder hounds, it’s time to talk about the unsung hero of snowboarding accessories: sunglasses.
That’s right, those tinted lenses aren’t just for fashion, they’re a crucial tool in your snow-shredding arsenal. In this post, we’re going to explore why sunglasses are essential for snowboarding, what you should consider when choosing a pair for the slopes, the best snowboarding sunglasses on the market, and some tips and tricks for wearing them while you shred. So strap on your bindings and let’s hit the mountain!
Why Sunglasses are Essential for Snowboarding
Picture this – you’re out on the mountain, shredding the gnarliest slope you could find, the wind in your hair, cold biting at your fingertips. It’s a beautiful day, with the sun shining bright in the sky. You take a jump and soar into the air – but suddenly, you lose your balance and go crashing down to the snow. What happened? The sun was in your eyes, and you couldn’t see where you were going. That’s why sunglasses are essential for snowboarding.
Sure, they make you look cool as hell, but sunglasses serve an important purpose beyond just making you look like a snowboarding pro. For one, they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. At high elevations, the sun’s rays are even stronger, putting your eyes at risk for serious damage. Sunglasses with UV protection can help prevent snow blindness, a painful condition caused by intense light reflecting off of the snow.
But it’s not just about protection – sunglasses can also improve your performance on the mountain. When you’re snowboarding, depth perception is crucial. The right pair of sunglasses will enhance your visual acuity, allowing you to see the details of the terrain ahead of you. This means you’ll be better equipped to navigate obstacles and avoid potential hazards like rocks or trees.
So before you hit the slopes this winter, make sure you’ve got a pair of sunglasses in your snowboarding kit. Not only will you be protecting your eyes, but you’ll also be setting yourself up for a safer, more enjoyable ride.
What to Consider When Choosing Snowboarding Sunglasses
The right pair of snowboarding sunglasses can make all the difference when you hit the slopes. When you’re searching for a pair to suit your needs, consider the following elements to make sure you’ll stay safe and comfortable all day:
- Lens color: Depending on the weather and time of day, you’ll want to choose a different lens color for maximum visibility. Yellow, gold, and rose lenses are ideal for low-light conditions, while darker lenses like gray, green, or blue are great for sunny days.
- UV protection: Don’t skimp on UV protection – make sure your sunglasses block out 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. This can help prevent eye damage and even snow blindness, a condition where bright sunlight reflects off the snow and temporarily blinds you.
- Fit: Make sure the sunglasses fit snugly on your face – this not only helps keep out the sun and wind, but it also prevents the glasses from bouncing around while you’re shredding down the mountain.
- Durability: Snowboarding can be tough on gear, so choose sunglasses made of durable materials like polycarbonate or nylon. You’ll also want to look for scratch-resistant coatings to protect your lenses from damage.
- Style: While it’s important to choose sunglasses that keep you safe and comfortable, you’ll also want to look good on the mountain. Choose a style that fits your personal taste and matches your snowboarding gear.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect pair of sunglasses to take your snowboarding game to the next level.
The Best Snowboarding Sunglasses on the Market
When looking for the perfect snowboarding sunglasses, it’s important to consider a few key features. First and foremost, you want a pair that provides ample protection from the sun and snow glare. Look for lenses with a high level of UV protection and polarization to reduce glare. Additionally, you want a comfortable and secure fit that won’t fall off during high-speed runs. An adjustable strap can help ensure a snug fit, and frames with rubberized nose pads and temple tips can increase comfort and prevent slippage. Finally, consider the design and style of the sunglasses. While functionality is key, you also want a pair that looks good and fits your personal style. Some of the best snowboarding sunglasses on the market include Oakley Flight Deck, Smith I/O Mag, Anon M4 Cylindrical, and Dragon NFX2. Each of these options offers superior protection, comfort, and style, making them a great choice for any snowboarder looking to shred in style.
Tips and Tricks for Wearing Sunglasses while Snowboarding
When it comes to wearing sunglasses while snowboarding, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure your sunglasses fit snugly on your face. You don’t want them bouncing around or falling off during your ride. Look for sunglasses with adjustable temples or nose pads to ensure a perfect fit.
Another thing to consider is the right lens color for your sunglasses. A yellow or brown tinted lens can help enhance contrast and depth perception, which is crucial when navigating through different shades of snow on the slopes. For bright sunny days, a darker lens with UV protection is essential to prevent eye strain and damage from harmful UV rays.
When wearing sunglasses while snowboarding, it’s also important to clean your lenses frequently. Snow, mud, and sweat can easily accumulate on your lenses, and there’s nothing worse than trying to ride with impaired vision. Bring a microfiber cloth with you and take a quick wipe-down at the start of your run to ensure clear vision throughout your ride.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to accessorize and make a statement with your snowboarding sunglasses. There are a ton of different styles and designs out there, so find a pair that not only serves its purpose but also reflects your personal style and flair on the slopes.
Follow these tips and tricks for wearing sunglasses while snowboarding and you’ll be sure to have a safe and stylish ride every time.