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- Backpacking Light receives financial compensation from Ombraz in the form of advertising and sponsorships (e.g., podcasts, email newsletters, and events).
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Introduction
I’ve worn the same wraparound sunglasses – Smith Challis or Hookset models – for years. I stuck with them because they were durable, stable on my face (good fit), and had clear, photochromic glass optics (which I appreciated most for fly fishing). But they always came with compromises: arms that dug into the sides of my head when worn with headwear, and a heavy, bulky case I never wanted to carry.
In 1989, while climbing the heavily-glaciated Mount Olympus in Olympic National Park, I took off my glacier glasses at the summit and accidentally sat on them – snapping both hinges. I punched holes in my leather side shields, and rigged a piece of paracord to replace the arms so I could wear them on the way down. At the trailhead, I tossed them in the garbage, and never gave the idea a second thought – because my execution of armless sunglasses was a terribly rushed hack. Then, about two years ago, I discovered Ombraz armless sunglasses, and gave the idea a more serious look. This review is based on two years of field use in alpine and high desert hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing, and mountaineering activities with armless sunglasses.
I was hoping for something that worked with the realities of backcountry travel: less interference with helmets, hats, and hoods; no breakable arms or hinges; and less bulk when not in use. Ombraz promised all of that. What I didn’t expect was that they’d also become the most comfortable sunglasses I’ve ever worn.
Ombraz Sunglasses feature a patented armless design for a secure, all-day fit without pressure points, using adjustable cords for comfort. Lightweight and durable, they offer polarized lenses for clear vision and UV protection, making them ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, running, or water sports.
Table of Contents • Note: if this is a members-only article, some sections may only be available to Premium or Unlimited Members.
Ultralight Context
Hardcore ultralighters who expound the virtues of Rollens and other disposables because of their low cost and low weight may not appreciate the form, function, optical performance, or price associated with premium sunglasses. If you’re going to roll with Rollens et al., that’s fine – just understand the limitations. I spend more than 1,000 hours a year wearing sunglasses in the backcountry, so I place a higher priority on comfort, durable longevity (especially lenses), and optical performance than on light weight and low cost.
Design & Technology
Frame
The Ombraz frame is manufactured from TR-90 nylon, a thermoplastic polymer widely used in performance eyewear due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to deformation under stress. The design eliminates traditional temple arms and hinges entirely, resulting in a simplified, monolithic frame architecture.
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