Want fashionable sunglasses that can still handle the ruggedness of everyday life and adventure? Vallon creates performance eyewear that still looks good.
I’ve never been one to invest a lot of money into a pair of sunglasses. I’m typically either rocking a pair that I got for free at a conference or ones from the gas station that were a few bucks.
Don’t get me wrong—it’s not because I don’t like nice sunglasses. It’s just that I hesitate to spend hundreds of dollars on a pair that I may break.
I do a lot of outdoor activities, whether it’s running, playing pickleball, or simply venturing out into the wilderness, so I need durability.
But it seems like all the “performance” sunglasses are super focused on features without any style. You can’t wear them casually, which is a big problem for me because I don’t want to have to switch between pairs all the time.
Vallon Eyewear claims to make sunglasses that look classy but also withstand rugged trials. The brand sent me a few pairs to try out firsthand.
In this review, I’ll discuss Vallon’s history, try a few pairs hands on, and give my opinion on whether or not they’re worth your money.
Quick Take
I tried Vallon’s Surf Aviators, Waylons, and Howlin’ models.
Here’s what I think overall:
Pros
- The aesthetics are definitely premium — they look good on my face
- The materials are very high quality, and you can tell that they’re built to last
- The prices are actually pretty reasonable relative to the quality
Cons
- Although it has a purpose, I’m not a huge fan of the detachable head strap on the Howlin’ and Waylons
- The Surf Aviators are a little “out there” style-wise
About Vallon Eyewear
Vallon, named after its birthplace in the mountain valleys of Southern Switzerland, was created to make the lives of those who enjoy outdoor activities easier with their comfortable-yet-durable accessories.
Family-owned and with sustainability as a core aspect of its business, Vallon sunglasses are used by famous athletes and explorers for a reason: the versatile models offer quality, affordability, and function for a wide variety of activities, including sailing and motorcycling.
If you’re looking for classic models or sportier versions, Vallon offers a complete catalog with different frames. There are iconic aviators and unique Heron Mountain sunglasses, which have shields on the sides to combat glare.
Additionally, Vallon offers a lifetime warranty on all of their products (excluding prescription lenses) to protect against any manufacturing defects.
What I Tried
Here is my summary of each style I tried.
Surf Aviators
Although their name calls for spending time on the waves, these sunglasses are made to be used for everyday wear.
With seven shades ranging from Sage to Burgundy, the Surf Aviators combine the comfort of lightweight acetate frames and the optical high-performance of V52Ⓡ polarized lenses to create a nostalgic design.
Available in one size, measuring 57, 17, and 142 millimeters (lens, bridge, temple), these sunglasses have been made to have a great fit on most people, while their high-clarity green lenses offer 100% protection against UVA/B rays to enjoy those sunny days with no concerns.
If you’re wondering how to keep them away from dust or scratches, don’t worry; the Surf Aviators come with an elegant case to keep them safe.
I can’t say that these are the style that’s perfect for me — I think I look a little weird in them, but as far as comfort goes, they’re just fine.
Waylons
Whether you need them for a day of hiking with the family or at a pool party at your friend’s house, the Vallon Waylons offer the comfort of sports eyewear and the elegance of lifestyle sunglasses in a practical, fashionable design.
Their removable head strap prevents them from sliding off whatever you’re up to, while their lightweight acetate frame provides a comfortable fit without fatiguing your nose and ears.
If you spend a lot of time in the sun (and I’m assuming you are if you’re wearing sunglasses), their 100% protection against UVA/B rays will come in handy. And, of course, the free shipping and lifetime warranty offer a top-tier shopping experience for you to give the Wylons a chance.
Before I picked up Vallon, this style was the kind I had before and I loved. I ended up losing those in a lake I think, but regardless, I still loved them. These are an easy option for everyday wear for me.
Howlin’
This was my favorite style. If aviator sunglasses are always in your eyewear rotation, then this rounded version of the all-time favorite design will be a must-have for you.
With moldable temple tips and a removable strap for a secure fit, the Vallon Howlin’ are a best-seller for several reasons. Their durable, high-quality build offers thoughtful features to meet all your needs, whether you’re hiking the local trail or going up a climbing wall.
Besides providing 100% UVA/B protection and enhanced vision, their V52Ⓡ lenses offer admirable resistance from those unavoidable accidental impacts. Available in five colors, like Sage and Black, the Howlin’ are made to give you quality at a fair price and they easily match your outfits wherever you go.
These are my current daily drivers. I like how the lenses are big, but not too big, and they perfectly match the shape of my face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the most asked questions about Vallon Eyewear.
Are Vallon Sunglasses Worth It?
In my opinion, yes, Vallon’s sunglasses are totally worth it. They’re super durable, stylishly versatile, and cost about half the price of other comparable frames.
Does Vallon Make Prescription Sunglasses?
Yes, Vallon makes several of its popular styles with prescription lenses.
How Can You Adjust Vallon Sunglasses?
Some Vallon Eyewear styles have adjustable temples that can bend to make the sunglasses smaller or bigger on your head, allowing you to get a perfect fit.
Final Verdict
I really do love my new Vallon shades. Primarily because of the unique styles that turn heads, but also because of the build quality. You can just tell that they’re not going to break easily.
I took them with me on a trip to Europe with one in my carry-on. I had another pair in my backpack.
They easily passed the “Can I take these wherever I go without worrying about them breaking?” test.
Now, I keep a pair in the house and a pair in the car for ultimate convenience.
From a style perspective, the Howlin’s are my favorite model. I love the double-bridge nose area and the clear Sage colorway is a venture off from normal black or tortoise shades.
The Surf Aviators have a vintage feel that is probably bold for a lot of people, but the premium-feeling weight is unmatched. They definitely aren’t another pair of gas station sunglasses.
And finally, if you’re looking for something super “normal” and reliable, the Waylons are simply a good pair of sunglasses that you can’t go wrong with.
If you’re tired of either paying hundreds of dollars for designer sunglasses or getting cheap sunglasses that easily break, then Vallon could be for you. Especially if you lead an extra active lifestyle.
They’re pretty affordable (all in the $100 to $150 range), have styles that will work for anyone, and are made of materials that, in my opinion, rival even the brands commonly thought to be the best.
Plus, they all come with a nice leather carrying case that simply uplifts the experience no matter which model you go with.
What do you think about Vallon Eyewear? Let me know what style you want to try in the comments below!
