You can feel the adrenaline pumping as you strap on your board and prepare to shred the slopes.
But as any experienced snowboarder knows, the sun can be brutal on the mountain. That’s why you need the right eyewear – not just any old shades will do. In this article, we’re going to give you the lowdown on why snowboarding shades are a must-have item, along with our top picks of the best offerings on the market. We’ll also teach you how to choose the right shades for you, share some tips for taking care of them, and give you tricks for getting the most out of your snowboarding shades. Get ready to rev up your shredding style and conquer the mountain!
1. Why Snowboarding Shades Are a Must-Have
When it comes to shredding down the mountain, there are a few things you absolutely need – your board, your boots, and, of course, your snowboarding shades. Now, you might be thinking, “But why do I need shades? Won’t my regular sunglasses work just fine?” The answer, my friend, is no. Snowboarding shades are a totally different breed of eyewear, designed specifically for the conditions you’ll be facing on the mountain.
First of all, regular sunglasses just don’t cut it when it comes to sun protection. The reflective quality of snow means that you’re actually getting hit with more UV rays than you would be on a beach day. That’s where snowboarding shades come in. Not only do they have specialized lenses to protect your eyes from harmful rays, but they also help you see more clearly on those bright, sunny days.
But it’s not just about the sun. Snowboarding shades also offer much-needed protection from the wind and cold. When you’re flying down the mountain at high speeds, the wind can whip right into your face, making your eyes water and making it impossible to see. Snowboarding shades help to shield your eyes from this wind, letting you focus on the run ahead of you.
Plus, let’s face it, snowboarding shades just look cool. They’re one of the most iconic parts of a snowboarding getup, and they’re a great way to express your personal style while you’re shredding down the mountain. So do yourself a favor and invest in a good pair of snowboarding shades before your next trip to the slopes. Your eyes – and your style – will thank you.
2. Top Picks: The Best Snowboarding Shades on the Market
When it comes to choosing snowboarding shades, it’s easy to get lost in all the options out there. But fear not, as we’ve done the research for you and narrowed down the top picks for the best snowboarding shades on the market.
First up, we have the Oakley Flight Deck XM. These shades offer a wide lens for maximum visibility and the Prizm lens technology ensures color contrast and clarity. Plus, the frame is lightweight and comfortable to wear all day on the slopes.
Next on the list is the Smith I/O Mag. These shades include magnetic lens technology, allowing for quick and easy lens changes on the go. They also have adjustable straps for a customized fit and unrivaled clarity with the ChromaPop lens.
If you’re looking for something with a bit more style, the Dragon X2s are a great option. These shades have a unique frameless look and offer both polarized and non-polarized lens options. Plus, the Swiftlock lens technology allows for fast and secure lens swapping.
Lastly, we have the Anon M4 Toric. These shades have a cylindrical lens shape for maximum peripheral vision and an interchangeable magnetic lens system. They also include a MFI facemask to protect from wind and cold while riding.
Overall, each of these top picks offers unique features and benefits for any snowboarding style or preference. It’s important to choose a pair that fits well and provides the necessary protection and visibility needed on the mountain.
3. How to Choose the Right Snowboarding Shades for You
Choosing the right snowboarding shades is crucial to both your performance on the slopes and overall comfort. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting the perfect pair of shades for you:
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Lens Color: Consider the weather conditions you’ll be snowboarding in. For sunny days, darker lenses or mirrored lenses are ideal, while lighter lenses are better for overcast days.
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UV Protection: Make sure the shades you choose offer 100% UV protection. This will not only protect your eyes from harmful UV rays but also prevent snow blindness.
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Fit: The fit of your snowboarding shades is important. You don’t want them slipping or sliding down your face while you’re shredding. Look for shades with adjustable temples and nose pads for a secure fit.
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Lens Shape and Size: The size and shape of the lens can affect your visibility and peripheral vision. Choose lenses that are large enough to cover your eyes and provide a wide field of vision without obstruction.
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Lens Quality: Higher-quality lenses will offer more clarity and reduce distortion, allowing you to see the details of the snow and terrain more clearly.
Keep these factors in mind when choosing your snowboarding shades, and you’ll be well on your way to shredding in style and comfort.
4. Maintenance Tips: How to Take Care of Your Snowboarding Shades
Your snowboarding shades are an investment, so it’s essential to take proper care of them if you want them to last. Here are some tips to keep your shades in tip-top shape, whether you’re a casual snowboarder or a pro.
Firstly, make sure to clean your shades after every use. Snowboarding creates lots of dust and dirt, which can easily accumulate on your shades. Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the dirt away, but avoid using any harsh chemicals that could damage the lenses.
When storing your snowboarding shades, always keep them in a protective case to prevent scratching or other damage. If you don’t have a case, a soft pouch or cloth will do the trick as well.
Try to avoid leaving your shades in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures when not in use. Long exposure to UV rays can damage the lenses’ coatings, making them less effective at protecting your eyes from the sun’s glare.
Finally, always handle your snowboarding shades with care. It’s easy to accidentally drop them or scratch the lenses while adjusting them on your face. By being gentle, you’ll prolong the lifespan of your shades and get the most out of your investment.
By following these simple maintenance tips, your snowboarding shades will provide you with clear vision and protection for years to come.
5. Tricks for Getting the Most Out of Your Snowboarding Shades
When you hit the slopes, your shades can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Here are a few tricks for getting the most out of your snowboarding shades:
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Keep them clean: This is a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people hit the slopes without cleaning their shades first. Dirty lenses can negatively affect your visibility, and can even damage the lens.
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Wear them properly: This might sound obvious, but make sure you’re wearing your snowboarding shades the right way. Your snowboarding shades should fit snugly on your face, without any gaps or openings that could let in sunlight or snow.
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Use a strap: If you’re not already wearing goggles, you can use a strap to ensure that your shades stay on your face during fast, bumpy rides. This can be a lifesaver if you’ve ever lost your shades mid-run.
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Swap out your lenses: Different light conditions call for different lenses. Switching out your lenses can help you see better and perform better on the mountain. Look for lenses that are easy to swap and that offer a variety of tints.
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Keep them close: Finally, make sure you keep your snowboarding shades close by when you’re not wearing them. During lunch or après-ski, keep them in a safe spot where they won’t get lost or damaged. That way, they’ll be ready and waiting when you’re ready to hit the slopes again.