Journal · Filtercategorie
Sunglasses on the slopes: category 3 or 4?
By Dirk en Nick ·
For a sunny day on the slopes, Cat. 3 with UV400 is enough. Cat. 4 is for glaciers and high mountains, never for driving. In fog and flat light, ski goggles with a lighter lens work better.
For most sunny days on the slopes, sunglasses with Cat. 3 lenses and UV400 are enough. Choose Cat. 4 for glaciers and high mountains, but never drive with it. In fog, snowfall or flat light, ski goggles with a lighter lens are better than sunglasses.
Why do your eyes get more sun in the snow?
UV radiation increases with altitude, by about 10 percent per 1,000 metres according to the WHO. Fresh snow also reflects up to 80 percent of that radiation. So the sun reaches you from above and from below.
Too much UV in the snow can cause snow blindness: a burn of the cornea. You usually only notice it hours later. UV400 lenses block UVA and UVB. Read more in what UV400 means.
Which filter category suits which day?
| Situation | Category |
|---|---|
| Sunny day on the slopes | Cat. 3 |
| Terrace and lift | Cat. 3 |
| Glacier, high mountains, bright light | Cat. 4, not for driving |
| Overcast, fog, flat light | Ski goggles with Cat. 1 or 2 |
Driving to the mountains yourself? You may drive in daylight with Cat. 3, never with Cat. 4. See all filter categories explained.
Sunglasses or ski goggles?
With speed, wind and snowfall, ski goggles seal better and protect better in a fall. Sunglasses are more comfortable on the terrace, on the lift and on calm runs in the sun. In the snow, light also comes from the side, so a frame that fits close blocks more.
Do polarised lenses help in the snow?
Polarised lenses soften the glare of sunny snow. Some skiers do find that icy patches stand out less. If in doubt, wear non-polarised lenses on the slopes themselves and keep polarised for the terrace and lift.
Which Shadeclub pair should you take to the mountains?
All our sunglasses have Cat. 3 lenses with UV400. That covers you on sunny days on the slopes, on the lift and on the terrace. We do not sell Cat. 4 lenses or ski goggles.
- REX and VALENCE: polarised, for the terrace and lift.
- AERO: 21 grams with flexible temples, for long days.
- TIBOR: clean and sturdy, even after the last run.
Every pair comes with a flat fold-up case in vegan leather. Empty, it fits in your jacket pocket; with the glasses inside, it protects them in your backpack. Sun is not a season.
