Complete your gear setup for scaling rough terrain with a pair of rugged frames from our selection of climbing glasses. Find climbing-specific frames that can accommodate clip-on belay glasses, as well as sunglasses and glasses made for mountaineering and glaciering at high altitudes.
Choose a pair of lightweight climbing glasses made in performance plastic or nylon with a wraparound profile for optimal peripheral coverage. While different types of climbing may require specific types of eyewear, impact-resistant construction and non-slip temple socks and nose pads are necessary no matter what kind of runs you tackle. Explore our list of the best sunglasses for climbing to see our top picks in performance frames for all your climbing endeavors.
In most cases, yes, but it depends on the type of clip that comes on the belay glasses. The majority of belay glasses are designed to be compatible with any pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses, but it is always best to check with the belay glasses manufacturer to make sure they’ll work with your specific frames.
Yes: If you belay often, you know that constantly craning your neck to watch your climber can cause headaches, pain, and soreness. Belay glasses allow you to easily watch the person you’re belaying while looking straight ahead and maintaining good posture.
The best sunglasses for climbing at high altitudes are crafted in lightweight materials with shatterproof polycarbonate lenses for an ultra-clear viewing field. They often feature an attached leash or strap to keep them in place, and convenient side shields to prevent the snow, ice, and debris the wind whips up at high altitudes from hitting your eyes. The Oakley Clifden is an example of great sunglasses for high-altitude climbing.
Most mountaineering enthusiasts choose round polarized sunglasses with an attached leash and side shields to help them see clearly and protect their eyes when taking on a high peak covered in ice and snow. Rock climbers generally opt for durable wraparound shades that won't slip off as the climber moves or looks down.
Yes. Polarization helps reduce glare from reflective surfaces like snow and water in bright, sunny conditions. Since most mountaineering takes place at high altitudes in the wind, ice, and snow, polarized sunglasses offer the best color contrast and a distortionless field of view.