Are you looking for performance prescription sunglasses? We understand the grueling expectations of climbing mountains and glaciers, and the importance of having pristine vision and protection in such strenuous elements. Which means, you came to the right place! Below is a roundup of the best mountaineering sunglasses for 2023. Next time you head out to conquer the mountains, be sure to pack your favorite sunglasses. Protecting your eyes from extreme sun glare and high-elevation sun will take your next climb to new elevations!

Read on to find the best performing glacier glasses of the season.

Top Picks of 2023

1. Julbo Explorer 2.0
2. Julbo Vermont Classic
3. Julbo Cham
4. Oakley Clifden
Best Mountaineering Sunglasses of 2019

 

What to Look for in Mountaineering Sunglasses

Finding a killer pair of prescription mountaineering sunglasses all comes down to two main elements: frames and lenses.

Frame technology is all about supporting you and your adventure by functioning so seamlessly you forget your sunglasses are even there. No slippage. No fiddling. Just focusing on the adventure. Some key features include rubber grip nose pads and flexible temples, side shields, and cord attachment holes. All these features have one purpose in mind: the best face grip possible while keeping peripheral light out.

Lens Technology, such as mirror finishes and dark lenses, fights the harsh light conditions caused by the reflective surface of snow and glaciers. Some other features to consider are transition lenses, polarization, and lens color. Ultimately, with high-altitude lenses, it all comes down to one goal: keeping as much glare and light out of your eyes.

If you want to know in greater detail how to choose the right pair, check out the Mountaineering Sunglasses Buyer's Guide where you can learn which features provide the level of support you need.

1| Julbo Explorer 2.0

Julbo Explorer 2.0 mountaineering sunglasses with blue frame and gold lenses

Julbo Explorer 2.0 with Dark Blue / Blue frame and REACTIV 2-4 Polarized lenses

Shop Julbo Explorer 2.0

Explore more with the Julbo Explorer 2.0. Gracing the top of the best of list for the second year running, the Explorer 2.0 continues to perform at the top of the peak. The Explorer 2.0 has it all - side shields, flexible temples, helmet compatibility, rubber nose pads, leash holes in the temples. If having the best of the best is your game, look no further.

2| Julbo Vermont Classic

Julbo Vermont Classic with Brass / Brown frame with Spectron 3CF lenses

Julbo Vermont Classic with Brass / Brown frame and Spectron 3CF lenses

Shop Julbo Vermont Classic

It's no shock the Vermont Classic has made the list again. The leather side shields and nose bridge design has been serving mountaineers for decades. Rubber cable temples make for excellent flexibility and helmet compatibility while gripping to your head. Combine the Vermont Classic with your prescription and a cool mirrored lens and you are in for a killer pair of shades. You can't go wrong with the Classic solution to mountaineering glasses.

3| Julbo Cham

Julbo Cham with Black Matte / Black frame and Spectron 3CF Lenses

Julbo Cham with Black Matte / Black frame and Spectron 3CF Lenses

Shop Julbo Cham

The Cham frame is a hybrid of the classic Julbo model and modern technology. The flexible rubber temples and adjustable rubber nose pieces allow you to get the most out of your prescription sunglasses. Retro leather side shields nod their head toward tradition while bringing the spirit of generations of past mountaineers into the next generation. The metal frame gives you support, while still maintaining a lightweight feel. To sum it up, the Cham brings the cool retro feel to the modern adventure seeker.

4| Oakley Clifden

Oakley Clifden with Polished Black frame and PRIM Snow Sapphire lenses

Oakley Clifden with Polished Black frame and PRIM Snow Sapphire lenses

Shop Oakley Clifden

NEW to the market, new to the mountaineering game. Oakley Clifden has brought its A-game. With beloved Unobtanium™ material equipping the side shields and nose pads, the Clifden will block light without slippin' an inch. A removable 20" coated woven steel leash gives you added security while climbing. If you already love Oakley, try out the Clifden on your next summit and you will see the PRIZM™ difference.

Get the Best Prescription Mountaineering Sunglasses of 2023 at SportRx

Need prescription glacier glasses? Done. When you shop with us, you’ll find video guides and tooltips throughout the build process as you customize the perfect pair. An answer to all your questions is at your fingertips, and if you want to chat with an expert, Contact Us. We’ll put you in touch with one of our friendly in-house opticians who can help you build your prescription mountaineering sunglasses.

Ditch risky online shopping with the See Better Guarantee. Try your sunglasses for 45 days. If you’re not satisfied, send them back. Get a full refund, exchange, or credit towards a better pair. And return shipping? Covered. Get your pair of prescription mountaineering sunglasses at SportRx today!

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