Mount Kilimanjaro holds a special place in the hearts of adventurers worldwide, being one of the most sought-after and cherished summits. Every year, countless trekkers from various corners of the globe flock to this majestic peak, eager to conquer its heights. To undertake this challenging climb, it is crucial to possess a remarkable level of physical fitness and mental readiness. Moreover, it is highly recommended to equip oneself with appropriate climbing gear. In this specific blog post, we will emphasize the importance of selecting the finest sunglasses for your Kilimanjaro expedition.
Ensuring the safety and protection of your eyes is a vital aspect of Kilimanjaro climbing, enabling you to maintain clear vision and make informed decisions along the path you traverse.
It is evident that at higher elevations, the likelihood of sun exposure increases significantly. The sun’s intense light and the emission of harmful UV radiation create unfavorable conditions for the eyes.
Moreover, the presence of cold winds and snow further poses a threat to the eyes if they are not adequately protected.
EXPECTED DANGERS OF EXPOSURE TO SUN DURING KILIMANJARO CLIMBING
At higher elevations, exposure to direct sunlight is amplified due to the thinning of the atmosphere and clearer skies. With every 1,000 meters of altitude gained, solar radiation intensifies by 10%. This implies that as you ascend higher, your exposure to the sun increases significantly.
Furthermore, it is important to note that snow reflects sunlight more than plain ground, significantly amplifying the possibility of exposure to intense sunlight.
The level of exposure is contingent upon factors such as the thickness of the ozone layer, geographical location, the angle at which the sun’s rays hit, and the season.
Mountains often receive ample sunlight, even when the weather conditions are cloudy. Therefore, it is highly recommended to ensure you have a high-quality pair of sunglasses that can effectively withstand the intense sun during your Mount Kilimanjaro climb.
IS IT ESSENTIAL TO USE SUNGLASSES DURING KILIMANJARO HIKING?
The answer to the previous question is unequivocally affirmative, and the reasons for it are as follows:
- Sunglasses offer protection not only against harmful UV rays but also against dirt, sand, snow, and other elements that may enter the eyes and impede your journey.
- They safeguard the eyes from snow blindness or photokeratitis, a condition caused by the erosion of cells covering the cornea due to excessive exposure to UVB rays.
- Sunglasses also help prevent retinal exhaustion during prolonged exposure to intense heat and light.
- The extreme cold experienced during mountain climbing can lead to the freezing of eyelids, resulting in a loss of perception of the route.
- Delayed treatment of frozen cornea can cause irreversible necrosis.
Hence, investing in a quality pair of sunglasses for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not a luxury but an absolute necessity.
MOST PREFERRED TYPE OF FRAMES FOR SUNGLASSES
- It is strongly advised to opt for a curved frame that provides full coverage around the eyes, along with side shields, for optimal protection.
- Consider selecting sunglasses with adjustable or slim temples, as they securely hold the glasses in place and can easily fit under a cap or hat.
- Frames equipped with straps are also highly recommended as they eliminate the risk of slipping or losing your glasses during treks.
PREFERRED LENS TYPES FOR MOUNTAIN CLIMBING
- Lenses are classified based on their ability to provide protection against harmful UV rays, and they are rated on a scale from 1 to 4. Category 3 lenses, which block up to 80% of sunrays, are highly effective for activities like driving, general hiking, or beach holidays. Category 4 lenses, with a low Visible Light Transmission (VLT) rating ranging between 3 to 8%, are most suitable for high-altitude climbing.
- When it comes to lens color, grey and green tints are preferable choices as they reduce glare and help keep the eyes fresh and cool.
- Brown lenses are also a good option. Polyurethane lenses, although more expensive, are highly recommended as they are robust, resistant to shattering and scratching, offer excellent optics, and are exceptionally durable.
- These lenses often do not require additional coatings.
- For damp or humid conditions, lenses with hydrophobic coatings are ideal.
- They help repel water and maintain clarity.
- Additionally, polarized lenses are highly recommended as they effectively reduce glare, providing optimal visibility and comfort.
RECOMMENDED FEATURES IN SUNGLASSES TO BE USED DURING HIKING, TREKKING, MOUNTAINEERING
- Anti-glare lenses to block the sun and sun glare.
- Wider frames for better protection from chill and unexpected wind
- Better ground visibility
- Best grip with no slippage feature
- Mirror finish and dark tinted lenses
- 100 % protection from UV rays so that the eyes remains cool and one can focus on the climb alone.
- Eyes and area around the eyes are well covered
- Comfortable to wear for many hours altogether.
- Durable
- Polarized lenses so that they filter out reflected light and reduce more glare.
Given the intensity of the equatorial sun over Kilimanjaro, it is of utmost importance to prioritize the protection of your valuable eyes and ensure your safety during the climb. Consider making a worthwhile investment in sunglasses specifically designed for Kilimanjaro, and you will never have to regret your decision.
Numerous reputable brands offer exceptional sunglasses for climbing Kilimanjaro. You can refer to the aforementioned criteria and select the best option among the available choices. For a comprehensive Kilimanjaro Gear List, visit our website at www.africanmemoriesexplorers.com
