Gear Review: Under Armour Impulse Polarized Blue Mirror Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses make me think of the products marketed on popular infomercials throughout the years – Blue Blockers and HD Vision.  Would I suggest using those for trail running and snowshoeing?  Absolutely not!  When out in the elements, protecting the eyes is highly important – essential is more like it.  In my opinion, it’s best to spend some coin on a pair of shades that will offer true polarized protection.  Don’t fall for some crappy product with the moniker, “as seen on TV.”  I have adopted Under Armour’s Impulse Polarized Blue Mirror sunglasses as part of my everyday gear on the go and what I take when I’m on the trails.  They sit close to the face and comfortably contour the curves of my oversized skull.  

Concerning my large cranium, I always judge a pair of sunglasses by their fit.  More specific, they must fit my noggin or I won’t be a happy hiker.  In the past I’ve tried Oakley’s Mad Dogs and HaberVision’s Cimas – both fit comfortably.  Large gourd approved!  However, one thing was missing from those models: true polarization with a non-glare lense.  Typically, this feature increases the cost of the eyewear.

In my opinion, it’s well worth the cost; polarization is vital in today’s global-warmed environment.  According to the UA website, all Under Armour Performance Eyewear lenses block 100 percent of UVA, UVB and UVC rays.  For the higher elevation destinations, 100 percent is the way to go. Uh yea, I’m in the Rockies.  Jeez!

Developed for athletes, the Impulse shades provide an ArmourFusion frame that offers a lightweight feel and strong structure.  Under Armour says that the lenses are up to 10 times stronger than “traditional polycarbonate lenses.”  Additionally, they also boast cushioned hinge impact zones that absorb shock and ensure a customized fit.

Its Three-Point Grip adds to its premium fit design.  The grip is placed on the blades above the ears and on the rims for the nose.  When I first donned the Impulse sunglasses, they not only fit my bulky head but they also provided exceptional peripheral vision.  The UA Impulses boast APVX technology, providing 20 percent more undistorted peripheral vision.

To sum up, good for snowshoeing, good for trail running, good for everyday use.  As seen on Under Armour’s website: For more information about the Under Armour Impulse Polarized Blue Mirrors, visit http://bit.ly/bYhfXK.