How to choose sunglasses for winter sports
Whether you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, walking or running, it’s important to ensure your eyes stay protected from the sun’s harmful (ultraviolet) UV rays. Plus, if you perform any type of winter sport at a high altitude, UV radiation exposure increases and the sun’s reflection on snow or wet surfaces can be dangerous. That’s why it’s important to ensure that you wear sunglasses that are designed for winter sports, as they can help protect your eyes from cold and windy conditions, too. Keep reading for top tips on choosing the best sunglasses for winter sports.
Look for UV protection
Choosing sunglasses that have 100% protection against UVA and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, is one of the most important factors to look for when choosing sunglasses, particularly if you are looking for snow sunglasses. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation, which may lead to snow blindness or cataracts. You can find out more about the UV rays here. At Boots Opticians, all of our range comes with 100% UVA & UVB protection, to ensure your eyes stay protected from the sun’s harmful rays at all times.
Polarised lenses to help reduce glare
Polarised lenses can help reduce sun glare from reflective surfaces like snow, roads and water. This makes it easier to see details, making them a great option for winter sports or outdoor activities. Some people find it difficult to see ice patches with polarised lenses, so you may want to consider mirrored lenses instead. Explore our range of Transitions® XTRActive® Style Mirrors which are available in 4 colours.
Wraparound frames to improve comfort and vision
Wraparound sunglasses offer excellent coverage around the eyes compared to traditional sunglasses. Due to their rounded shape, the curves help to block any light that arrives from different angles. This is particularly helpful for any high-speed outdoor sports such as skiing, snowboarding or cycling. Take a look at these Oakley sports sunglasses that are perfect for winter sports.
Try lighter lenses
As winter sports can involve high speeds as well as the risk of debris and falls, thin and light lenses are ideal as they offer comfort, durability and clear vision. The lightweight design can help prevent strain and slipping, as well as the scratch resistant materials that can help protect the lenses.
Consider photochromic lenses
When taking part in outdoor sport, you may more frequently between sunny and cloudy conditions. Photochromic lenses, like these Light Reactive Lenses, adapt to changing light conditions. They automatically darken when exposed to sunlight and return to clear when in darker lighting environments. This makes them both a convenient and stylish option as you can choose your lens colours, too.
Anti-Fog coatings and wipes
Lenses can fog in winter sports because of the change of temperature between your body heat and the cold air. Try looking for ski sunglasses with anti-fog coating to help reduce fogging. You can also consider anti-fog kits to take with you, like these ZEISS AntiFOG Kit & Wipes, which can keep your lenses fog-free for up to three days.
Choose lighter materials for optimum comfort
Your sunglasses should fit snug, as well as comfortable to ensure they don’t slip during activities. Try to opt for sunglasses with adjustable nose pads, rubber temples and lightweight materials for stability, comfort and durability. Look to invest in high-quality sunglasses from brands like Nike or Puma and Oakley, to ensure you’re performing at your best as well as keeping your eyes protected.
Choose the right lens colour
It might be tempting to choose your favourite colour for your lenses, but different lens tints can provide various benefits:
• Grey can help reduce overall brightness which is great for light sensitivity
• Brown/amber can help to enhance contrast, making it an ideal shade for overcast
• Yellow/gold is a good option for foggy conditions as it helps to improve visibility
• Blue/purple can help to enhance contrast in snowy conditions
Whether you’re looking for the best sunglasses for a ski holiday, cycling adventures, running or another winter sport, by following these tips, you can ensure you’re choosing the best sunglasses to keep your eyes protected. If you would personalised advice on choosing the best eyewear for winter sports, come and visit us.
