Choosing the Right Sunglasses for High Altitude
UV radiation increases by 10% for every 1,000m gained. On the snow of the Mount Everest expedition route, the reflection doubles this. Snow blindness is painful and temporary, but it stops you in your tracks.
Regular sunglasses aren't enough. You need Category 3 or 4 lenses that block 90%+ of visible light. They are too dark for driving but essential for the glare of the Everest Base Camp glacier.
Light enters from the sides. Glacier glasses have leather or plastic side shields to block peripheral light. This prevents UV from burning your retinas during your Everest trekking adventure.
If the wind picks up, sunglasses fly off. Bring ski goggles as a backup for high passes or stormy days near the Mount Everest summit approach. They protect against freezing eyeballs.
You only have one pair of eyes. Buy the best protection you can afford. Blindness is not an option on Everest.
