From ancient ingenuity to modern sophistication, the evolution of sunglasses reflects humanity's quest to protect our eyes from nature’s extremes. Here’s a brief look at how glacier sunglasses came to be.

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 Early Solutions

The Inuit people, often exposed to harsh, glaring conditions, were among the first to devise protective eyewear. They crafted glasses from walrus ivory, driftwood, and bone, incorporating small slits to limit light exposure. This early design helped shield their eyes from the intense reflections off snow and ice.

Legend has it that Emperor Nero used polished precious stones to observe gladiatorial combat. Although a stylish choice, these early “sunglasses” were more about luxury than practical utility.

Ancient Innovations

In the 12th century, the Chinese developed the first known darkened sunglasses, made from smoked quartz. These were not only a status symbol but also a tool to conceal emotions during interactions, especially for judges seeking to maintain impartiality.

By the 15th century, these early designs began influencing Europe. The introduction of vision-correcting, darkened sunglasses to Italy marked a significant advancement in eye protection.

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The Rise of Glacier Sunglasses

The 17th century brought new challenges as explorers ventured into the Alps and other high-altitude regions. Pioneers like Harold Raeburn, a Scottish mountaineer, noted the importance of eye protection in snowy conditions. Early climbers used linen or cotton masks with eye holes to shield their eyes from the harsh environment.

Significant progress came in 1888 with Jules Baud, who designed sunglasses specifically for Chamonix crystal-makers facing intense mountain sunlight. Baud's innovation laid the foundation for the Julbo brand, which, in 1950, made a major impact with its glacier eyewear.

A decade later, Vuarnet emerged, born from a collaboration between French optician Roger Pouilloux and alpine skier Jean Vuarnet. Vuarnet’s high-quality sunglasses gained prominence during the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Modern Developments

Over the years, glacier sunglasses have evolved to meet the demands of high-altitude adventures. Modern features include side shields to block wind, lightweight frames for comfort, and advanced lenses to reduce glare. These improvements have made them indispensable for mountaineers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts facing extreme conditions.

Today, glacier sunglasses are an essential piece of gear, combining historical insights with cutting-edge technology to provide unparalleled eye protection. Our Moiry mountain sunglasses, inspired by this rich heritage, offer top-tier protection with Zeiss lenses, a titanium frame, and removable side shields. 

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Explore our Moiry sunglasses and discover how they continue the legacy of exceptional eye protection in the harshest environments.

Take care of your eyes!