Are Ombraz armless sunglasses worth the hype? [REVIEW]

I paddled nearly 30 miles over two days with my Ombraz armless sunglasses.

At Flatwater Kayak Club, we’re always on the lookout for gear that enhances our outdoor experiences.

Recently, I decided to buy Ombraz armless sunglasses, a unique product that promises comfort, durability, and style for kayaking.

Here’s an overview of the potential benefits, as shared by the company, verified buyer reviews, and my own hands-on product testing (most recently, on a nearly-30-mile paddle and camp trip on the Willamette River).

My Ombraz sunglasses on a recent kayaking route on the Tualatin River.

Usually I flat water kayak wearing one of my favorite kayaking hats and my Ray Bans. But the sunglass pair I own aren’t the greatest for water sports (or outdoor sports, in general, they’re more for style). So, a few months back, I invested in one of the trendiest sunglasses on the market for my 2024 kayaking adventures – Ombraz.

Opening up my Ombraz sunglasses for the first time…

Quick Ombraz sunglasses benefits:

• Comfortable Fit: No pressure points behind the ears.

• Durable Design: No hinges or arms to break.

• Secure: Adjustable cord ensures they stay put… They don’t fall off!

• Compact and Packable: Armless design packs flat, and super light.

• High-Quality Optics: Polarized lenses reduce glare and offer UV protection.

• Eco-Friendly: Each purchase helps plant 20 trees.

The Ombraz brand and their armless sunglass designs have been featured all over the place lately, including: Backpacker Magazine, Climbing Magazine, Forbes, Outside Magazine, Gear Patrol, and The Wall Street Journal, and even on one of my favorite podcasts “How I Built This.”

Why Ombraz armless sunglasses?

There are good reasons Outside Magazine gave these sunglasses the coveted “Gear of the Year” award. Here’s a deeper breakdown into why people (including me) are attracted to the armless sunglass style for outdoor sports, and specifically the stylish designs offered by Ombraz…

Comfort

According to the company, Ombraz armless sunglasses eliminate the discomfort associated with traditional sunglasses. Instead of arms, they use an adjustable cord that wraps around your head, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. This design is said to prevent the pressure points behind the ears that many users find irritating during extended wear​ with regular sunglass styles.

Reviewers and users have praised this feature, noting that the sunglasses remain comfortable even during long hours on the water​. I agree with this - my Ombraz are super comfortable, especially on the nose and behind the ears areas.

Durability

Kayaking demands gear that can withstand the elements, and Ombraz armless sunglasses are designed to rise to the challenge. The frames are made from durable materials that are lightweight yet robust. The absence of traditional arms and hinges means there are fewer parts that can break, enhancing the longevity of the sunglasses​.

Users have highlighted the durability in their reviews, mentioning that the sunglasses hold up well even under tough conditions​. I don’t have an opinion on Ombraz durability yet, but I’ll weigh in again after kayaking more with them.

Optical quality

Ombraz doesn't compromise on lens quality. The company states that their sunglasses feature premium polarized lenses which reduce glare, enhance contrast, and provide clear vision. This is particularly beneficial for kayakers who need to see underwater obstacles or enjoy the scenery without distortion.

Additionally, the lenses offer 100% UV protection, which is crucial for long days under the sun​. Many users have echoed these claims in their reviews, appreciating the clarity and protection the lenses provide. Since I’ve been using my Ombraz sunglasses out here in the Pacific Northwest, I really appreciate this factor too.

Versatility and style

These sunglasses are not just functional; they also come in a variety of frame styles and lens colors, according to the company. This allows users to choose a pair that suits their personal style.

The sleek design complements any outdoor outfit, making them a versatile accessory for kayaking, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water​.

Reviewers often mention the stylish look of the sunglasses, which adds to their appeal​. Mine are the Classic design, and it took a little getting used to without the arms, but now I’m really into them for outdoor activities. (I even wore them horseback riding the other weekend).

Eco-friendly

The company emphasizes its commitment to sustainability. Each purchase of Ombraz sunglasses helps plant 20 trees, offsetting carbon emissions and contributing to reforestation efforts. This eco-friendly approach is a significant selling point for environmentally conscious consumers​.

Easy to pack and store

Space is always a premium when packing for a kayaking trip. Ombraz's armless design makes these sunglasses incredibly easy to store. They can be slipped into a pocket, bag, or hung around the neck without worrying about damaging the frames. This convenience is highlighted by both the company and user reviews, making them an ideal choice for those on the go​.

Where to buy Ombraz sunglasses

I bought my Ombraz Classic armless sunglasses in tortoise shell directly from the Ombraz website. Styles start at $160 and sometimes they offer discounts if you sign up for their email list or on major U.S. holidays.

Conclusion

Last weekend (July, 2024) I paddled 30 miles on the Willamette River and wore my Ombraz sunglasses the whole trip. They really were incredible to use. I had great visibility. They were comfortable on my nose. I could easily adjust the strap, pull them down when I wanted to, and slide them back up to wear.

Ombraz armless sunglasses represent an innovative approach to outdoor eyewear, combining comfort, durability, and high-quality optics. While my experience with them has been positive, the feedback from other users and the company's detailed claims suggest these sunglasses are worth considering for any avid kayaker or outdoor enthusiast.

For those interested in eco-friendly and practical gear, Ombraz offers a compelling option that stands out from traditional sunglasses. I’ll continue to share photos and videos as I enjoy using my Classic pair throughout the summer!

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About Flatwater Kayak Club

Flatwater Kayak Club is a leading woman-owned online platform dedicated to supporting beginner and intermediate kayakers in the Pacific Northwest. Our company founder, a former writer for The National Geographic Channel and a current ACA member, guides our mission with her passion for kayaking, nature, and storytelling.