Side shield sunglasses have evolved from niche mountaineering gear into a high-performance essential for those exposed to intense sunlight, glare in harsh environments, and people with light sensitive eyes.
VALLON’s side shield sunglasses stand out in this category by combining technical precision with a retro alpine-inspired design - delivering classic style, high-performance, and maximum eye protection in all nature of elements. So, whether you're skiing, hiking, sailing, or simply seeking maximum eye protection, the right pair of side shield sunglasses will make a measurable difference to your vision and long-term eye health.
What are side shield sunglasses?
Side shield sunglasses are designed with lateral protection ‘shields’ that block out peripheral light, dust, glare and wind. These can be made from a variety of materials. VALLON’s Heron collection feature side shields made of genuine leather for durability, comfort and style.
As well as reducing UV exposure from oblique angles, side shields also enhance your vision by reducing distractions and lateral light, sharpening your focus. Traditionally designed for glacier-based activities (hence the nickname ‘glacier glasses’), side shield sunglasses are now used in high-reflection environments across the globe - from deserts, to sea/ocean, and glacier-laden mountains.
Unlike standard sunglasses, side shield sunglasses perform by:
- Minimizing light leakage from the sides
- Improve contrast and reduce eye strain
- Offer superior protection in extreme conditions
Why VALLON side shield sunglasses are different
We approach our side shield design with a performance-first perspective - rooted in alpine heritage - but refined for broader use. The result is a collection of side shield sunglasses that balances protection, durability, and aesthetics:
1. Side shield design, refined
Our Heron collection (Heron Glacier, Heron Mountain, Heron Ocean and Heron Desert) feature genuine leather side shields with small ventilation holes, paying homage to glacier glasses of decades past. We combine these leather side shields with an anti-fog coating on the lenses, and a removable centrepiece to prevent your vision fogging up on uphill pushes.
2. High-performance lens technology
All VALLON’s side shield sunglasses feature 2mm polycarbonate lenses designed for:
- Shatterproof eye protection
- 100% UVA/B protection (UV400 standard)
- Glare reduction in high-glare conditions
- Enhanced contrast (grey/green lens tint) for terrain readability
3. Lightweight, durable frames
Constructed from Swiss-invented TR90® Grilamid, VALLON side shield sunglasses frames are both lightweight and impact-resistant. This ensures long-term durability without adding unnecessary weight - an important factor for extended wear and diverse uses across the world.
4. Functional design meets everyday usability
Each model is crafted to meet the needs of a specific use case and terrain - from open water, to dusty deserts, and high-altitude environments. VALLON’s side shield sunglasses are therefore designed to handle abrasion and temperature variability, while consistently providing top performing eye protection and all-day comfort.
That said, it’s not uncommon to see our Heron collection in use in more casual settings as well! Clean lines, original colorways, and a refined silhouette make these sunglasses suitable beyond the world’s wildest environments - from casual boating to weekend hikes.
Who should use side shield sunglasses?
Side shield sunglasses are not just for alpinists and explorers - they are ideal for:
- Skiers and snowboarders exposed to snow glare
- Sailors, kayakers and surfers dealing with water reflection
- Hikers and climbers looking for extra sun protection in the mountains
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People with light sensitive eyes
How to choose the best side shield sunglasses
When evaluating which side shield sunglasses are best for you, we suggest focusing on the following:
- Coverage: Do they effectively block lateral light?
- Lens quality: Do they offer UV400 protection and contrast enhancement?
- Fit: Is the fit secure yet comfortable for all-day wear?
- Versatility: Can I wear these for both technical and casual use?
The best side shield sunglasses combine technical protection with everyday usability. VALLON’s side shield sunglasses collection delivers on both fronts, offering advanced eye protection, durable construction, and a classic aesthetic.
