Whether polarised, mirrored or just mightily well-made, these are the toughest, most robust frames to ensure you cut a dash on the slopes and the streets this winter
Words: Zak Maoui
By the time winter has swept in, most of us have stashed our sunglasses away. Instead, we’ve turned to gloves, hats and scarves — and tend to forget about our frames until next summer. But, that being said, we reckon there's more than a place for sunglasses during the cooler months.
And that’shigh in the mountains, as well as out on the streets. For long, lazy afternoons on the ski slopes, it pays to pocket a pair of the most mirrored, polarised and sturdily-made frames money can buy. The sun is lower in the sky this season — and more likely to catch you off guard. And while you're just doing your thing in London or elsewhere, there's always a place for sunglasses.
On skiing (for those lucky enough to jet off to the mountains this year), a good pair of slope-worthy sunglasses is a stellar investment for years to come. There is no better lightweight alternative to a pair of heavy goggles than a pair of polarised sunglasses. And, although the coloured, high-shine lenses can be polarising themselves when it comes to style, they’ll do a stellar job when it comes to deflecting any errant rays. And, while ski poles are reinforced with fibreglass or carbon, and your hefty jacket will offer some protection for your body, your sunglasses are likely to fall victim to any tumble you may take. Unless, that is, you buy a pair of dependable, reliable sturdy frames.
Below are some of the best sunglasses, that will see you from street to slop and back again...
Oakley lenses are designed and tested under extreme high mass and high velocity circumstances to ensure uncompromising protection across a wide range of demanding conditions, including skiing. That said, the Radar EV Path sunglasses come with a Lightweight O Matter frame material, which means you won't even feel the protective frames on your head. What's more they're packed with high performance specs: Oakley performance shield lens technology and Prizm lenses to enhance colour, contrast and detail for an optimised experience.
Not just a style statement, Sungod's Velans Top Frame sunglasses feature some of the best eyewear tech on the planet. 8KO lenses are constructed from 2mm nylon and are more lightweight, yet more powerful, that industry standard polycarbonate. What does that mean for you? Less risk of damage and maximum optical clarity, that's what.
O'Neill does surf and ski-wear like a pro. So why expect its winter sunglasses game to be any weaker? These sturdy frames not onyl speak to the cool of slope-surfing, but are packed with tech such as glare resistant lenses. Best bit? They don't cost the earth.
Prada's sunglasses range is next level. There's the high fashion stuff, but then there's the Linea Rossa line, which is catered more to those seeking sportier, techy styles. These new age specs will serve you on the slopes, the streets, the beach and wherever else you might find yourself this winter.
Vallon’s ‘Heron Glacier’ sunglasses was the brand’s first-ever product and was a winner from the off. Now in its fourth edition, it's a round-silhouetted, vintage-inspired style that works year in year out. The lenses are protected by leather side shields and the sunnies comes with a removable centrepiece, as well as mirrored lenses that provide unmatched protection for your eyes.
You might wear black in summer, but winter is really the time for you to go hell with it. And that includes with your sunglasses. These sturdy frames from Monc are year-round winner, but will excel in the winter.
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