Sunglasses for Trail: What the Ratings Mean

Trail sunglasses are not a fashion choice, they are eye protection at altitude and on snow. The UV rating and lens tint decide whether you squint all day or see the trail clearly.

Decode the numbers on the frame.

• UV400 blocks nearly all harmful rays, non-negotiable
• Polarized cuts glare off water and wet rock
• Amber and rose tints add contrast on flat light
• Wraparound frames block the side glare cheap ones miss

Your eyes take a beating up high where the light is harsh. A real pair of trail glasses is gear, not an accessory.

Store them in a hard case, not a pocket. Trail sunglasses get crushed in packs all the time, and a ten dollar case saves a hundred dollar pair.