Featured Image: Rachael Zimmerman
It’s springtime, the season of soft snow, bluebird days and parking lot parties. As the temps heat up, you’ll be shedding layers, slathering on sunscreen and swapping out your goggles for those all important sunglasses. But not just any pair will do, spring shredding demands shades that can handle high-altitude sun, ever-changing snow glare and just as importantly; lookin’ good while you’re crushing a cold one.
We rounded up the best sunglasses for spring skiing and après from brands that know a thing or two about style and performance. Whether you’re ripping slush bumps, nailing a couloir in perfect corn or just posting up at the mid-mountain deck, these shades have you covered.
Oakley — Clifden
The Ultimate Shield
Best for: High-altitude sun protection
Style Vibe: Retro mountaineering meets high-tech performance
Après Compatibility: Strong—you’ll look like you just got back from an expedition (even if you just skied to the bar)
Spring skiing means high UV exposure, and Oakley’s Clifden is built to handle just that. With a glacier-style frame, removable side shields and Prizm lenses that boost contrast, these are perfect for sunny days at elevation. Bonus: They have a built-in leash, so you won’t lose ‘em when things get rowdy.
Vuarnet — Legend 02
Classic French Style
Best for: Looking effortlessly stylish while sipping a spritz
Style Vibe: Just returned from the French Alps
Après Compatibility: You will get compliments. Many, many compliments
Nothing says spring ski chic like a pair of Vuarnets. The Legend 02 is straight out of the ‘70s, with sleek, cat eye detailing and Vuarnet’s legendary mineral glass lenses that cut glare like no other. These are for skiers who rip all morning and then hold it down on the sundeck all afternoon.
Bolle — Chronoshield
Bold and Fast
Best for: Going full Euro racer mode
Style Vibe: Retro racer
Après Compatibility: Works best if you’re the fastest one in your crew
The Chronoshield is a throwback to Bolle’s OG ‘80s speed shades, but honestly, they work just as well for spring skiing. With a massive wraparound lens, these block out every bit of glare while making you look like you belong on a World Cup start list.
Smith — Westward
Adventure Ready Classic
Best for: Mountain town cruisin’
Style Vibe: Mellow relaxing
Après Compatibility: Look good without having to say it
The Westward blends timeless style with Smith’s signature performance. The bio-based frames keep things lightweight and eco-friendly, while the polarized lenses enhance contrast and cut glare on slushy slopes. Whether you’re linking turns or après sipping in the sun, these are a versatile go-to for anyone who wants all-day comfort with a touch of effortless style.
Dragon — Thorn (Chris Benchetler Edition)
Steezy and Functional
Best for: Park laps and all-day après
Style Vibe: Straight chillin’
Après Compatibility: Pairs well with a T-shirt and flip flops
The Chris Benchetler signature series Thorn brings effortless style with a lightweight frame and Dragon’s signature Lumalens tech, which enhances contrast and cuts glare. Sporty but casual, they’re perfect for lapping the park in a hoodie and then kicking back in the lot with a cooler full of ice cold beverages.
Spy — Discord
Big Energy
Best for: Those who like their shades oversized & their après loud
Style Vibe: ‘80s rockstar meets ski bum
Après Compatibility: Perfect match to parking lot jams
Spring skiing is about vibes, and the Spy Discord is here to bring them. With a chunky frame and Spy’s Happy Lens tech (yes, that’s really what it’s called), these shades make everything look brighter and more fun, just like après should be.
100% — S2
Performance with Style
Best for: Speed demons
Style Vibe: Futuristic speed fiend
Après Compatibility: Get ready to explain why you look so fast
If you want a high-performance sunglass that brings its own unique styling, the 100% S2 is it. These keep the weight down, have massive coverage and stay put when you’re bombing lines. They’re perfect for skiers who like to keep it moving but don’t mind a stylish flair.
Glade — Westslope
Small Brand, Big Performance
Best for: The lowkey ripper who values function and form
Style Vibe: Subdued but legit
Après Compatibility: This sunglass says, “Yeah, I skied off the top of that peak,” without being obnoxious
Glade is an emerging brand making waves in the ski world, and the Westslope is an easygoing yet high-performance sunglass. With polarized lenses and a wraparound frame, these are the perfect companion when a long spring tour morphs into a front porch hangout session.
POC — Devour Glacial
Deep Exploration
Best for: Endless snowfields
Style Vibe: All business
Après Compatibility: You’re likely still on the mountain
The Devour Glacial is a real deal high alpine sunglass solution. The extra eye shields block a ton of light, giving you the ultimate in eye coverage and protection when spending extended time high in the alpine. Featuring fully adjustable temples and nose pieces, it’s easy to find a secure fit no matter your head size and shape.
Spring skiing is a vibe, and your sunglasses should match it. Whether you’re channeling classic après style or going full-send in the park, there’s something for everyone. Now grab your shades, hit the hill, then get ready to après like you mean it.
