I love hiking! There's nothing quite like being out in nature, surrounded by beautiful scenery. But as someone who wears glasses, I've definitely faced some unique challenges on the trail. From foggy lenses to scratched frames, keeping my vision clear and comfortable hasn't always been easy. Over time, I've learned a few tricks that make a huge difference, and I want to share them with you.
When I first started hiking, I didn't give much thought to my glasses. I just wore whatever pair I had at the time, whether they were wire-frame or plastic. Cleaning them was usually an afterthought, often involving a quick lick and a wipe on my shirt. Not ideal, I know! I quickly realized this wasn't a sustainable solution.
One time, I was hiking up a particularly steep trail when my glasses kept sliding down my nose due to sweat. It was incredibly annoying and distracting. Another time, I got caught in a sudden downpour, and my lenses became so covered in water droplets that I could barely see. I knew I needed a better strategy.
The first thing I realized was the importance of having a good pair of hiking glasses. I now bring both prescription glasses and sunglasses with me on every hike. My regular glasses have titanium frames, which are lightweight and durable. My sunglasses have nylon frames, which are also very sturdy and can handle a bit of abuse. To keep them secure, I use Chums eyeglass retainers on both pairs. These are lifesavers!
I also carry a lightweight, semi-hard shell case to protect the pair I'm not using. Switching between my regular glasses and sunglasses depending on the light conditions is essential, especially when going from bright sunlight to shaded areas. I've found that having the right eyewear makes a world of difference in my overall hiking experience.
Cleaning my glasses on the trail is another important consideration. I've learned that licking them and wiping them on my shirt is definitely not the best approach! Now, I always bring a microfiber cloth for cleaning. Before wiping, I try to rinse off any dust or dirt with water to avoid scratching the lenses. It's a small step, but it keeps my glasses in much better condition.
Perhaps the most important lesson I've learned is to always bring a spare pair of glasses, especially since I'm nearsighted. Hiking essentially blind is no fun, and it can be dangerous. Having a backup pair gives me peace of mind and ensures that I can always see clearly, no matter what happens.
Recently, I was looking for a stylish yet functional pair of reading glasses for everyday use, and I stumbled upon Cinily Women's Glasses. They have a great selection, and I was particularly drawn to the R45103 Vintage Round Trending Reading Glasses. The TR90 frames seem durable enough for light hiking use, and the leopard print adds a touch of personality. I'm considering getting a pair for less strenuous hikes.
The R45103 Vintage Round Trending Reading Glasses are great because they are lightweight and comfortable. I really like the look of the C7leopard clear style. They seem like a good option for those overcast days when I need a little extra help with reading maps or trail signs. I wouldn't use them for strenuous hikes, but for leisurely strolls, they could be perfect. I appreciate that Cinily Net offers such a variety of styles.
I also bring my clear lenses that are metal frames for night or overcast moments. Those frames have spring-loaded hinges and have proven durable.
Here's a summary of the tips I've learned over the years: