Gear Review: Revo Guide Extreme Sunglasses
These multi-featured shades from Revo will keep you seeing clearly during high-altitude exertion.
[mountaineering]
When we dubbed the original Revo Guide as “most versatile” in our 2011 Fall/Winter Gear Guide, we praised the large frames that provided solid coverage while paddling, fishing, or hiking, but we dinged them for feeling bulky and steaming up under high exertion. Enter the Extreme. This form-fitting upgrade has even better coverage and fit than its predecessor, thanks to a frame design that allows it to sit closer to testers’ faces. Revo also improved the ventilation by adding ridges along the bottom and top of the frame that allow for airflow, but don’t cause discomfort against the skin.
Testers also loved the new mountaineering-style removable side panels for blocking wind, snow, and light. The gray polarized lens provided ample protection in variable light, while the Water Lens model (available separately for the same price) battled glare and is so clear, it could be mistaken for glass. Nice touch: The Extremes come with a leash (floatable) that can be clipped to the earpieces for added security. Bummer: Some testers felt that the temple pieces bowed too drastically, causing the plastic—no rubber coating there—to push uncomfortably against the tops of their ears. Check fit. $209; 1.4 oz. (with side panels); revo.com