Above treeline, UV exposure climbs fast and sunlight bounces off snow and rock from every direction. Mountaineers and backcountry travelers spend long days in this kind of glare, and standard sunglasses aren't built to handle it. Smith Optics’ collection of glacier glasses is designed for that exposure.
Removable side shields block peripheral glare on exposed snowfields, while ChromaPop™ lenses sharpens terrain detail so you can track changing snow conditions with more clarity.
The best mountaineering sunglasses fit close to your face, block UV from the sides as well as straight on, and stay secure on your head during scrambles and technical sections. Look for removable side shields for glacier travel and lenses built specifically for high-glare, high-UV conditions.
When do you need glacier glasses?
You need glacier glasses if you're regularly out in bright, snow-covered terrain at elevation, like ski touring or mountaineering. Standard sunglasses aren't built for that level of UV and glare, so the more time you spend at higher elevations, the more that added protection matters.
What's the difference between glacier glasses and regular sunglasses?
Glacier glasses feature side shields, a more wraparound fit, and darker lenses designed for the extreme brightness you get at elevation, well beyond what regular sunglasses are built to handle.
A Heritage of Innovation — Since 1965, Smith Optics has been part of the ride — pushing boundaries, chasing lines, and sharing the experience with riders around the globe.
A Heritage of Innovation — Since 1965, Smith Optics has been part of the ride — pushing boundaries, chasing lines, and sharing the experience with riders around the globe.
