Since 2019, Ombraz has made a name for itself by solving a classic sunglasses problem: arms that break, slip, or pinch.
Their armless design, with its distinctive cord, has turned skeptics into loyal converts, earning dozens of “best of” awards in the process. I gave them an Editor’s Choice Award in my Ombraz review, during their early days.
But their newest release, the Refugio, is a step further into performance territory.
This is a frame built with high-output athletes in mind; runners, climbers, cyclists, and anyone who knows how the sun can wear you down over a long day out. Drawing inspiration from retro wraparound silhouettes, the Refugio feels like the boldest evolution of the Ombraz concept so far.
Specs and options at a glance
- Frame colors: Charcoal, Tortoise
- Sizes: Regular and XL
- Weight: Ultralight for endurance wear
- Price: $195 USD from ombraz.com – available July 14 2025
- Included: Soft case, cleaning cloth, removable accessories available separately
Made for motion, and the elements
The name Refugio comes from the Italian word for “shelter,” which feels fitting when you first put them on.
The design offers full-wrap coverage without sitting too close to your cheeks, so you get reliable protection without that fogged-up, sweaty feeling.
One of the most noticeable upgrades is the fully integrated nose pad system, which lifts the frame slightly off your brow to boost airflow and reduce lens smudging.
For long efforts, like mountain ridge traverses or exposed gravel bike rides, it’s the kind of subtle improvement that adds up in a big way.
If you want to dial in coverage even further, you can snap on the removable side shields or the UV nose shield to block wind and glare. It will help channel you inner Batman too!
A closer look at the details
Like every Ombraz model, the Refugio has no hinges, no arms, and no pressure points.
Instead, it relies on the brand’s 100% recycled antimicrobial cord, which adjusts easily to stay locked in place when moving slow or fast.
The frames are crafted from TR-90 aerospace-grade nylon, making them extremely light and flexible while still feeling sturdy in hand.
For optics, you get your pick of Carl Zeiss lenses in non-polarized tints:
- Grey + Silver Mirror
- Grey + Black Mirror
- Brown + Copper Mirror
They deliver 100% UVA/UVB protection, with clarity that holds up in bright alpine conditions and shifting shadows alike.
Co-founder Jensen Brehm describes the Refugio as the first Ombraz frame that truly blends the brand’s minimalist DNA with a sport-forward mindset.
“The Refugio is unlike anything we’ve released before—bold, technical, and built to perform. It’s the first frame that fully fuses our armless design with a true sport-forward, performance profile.” Brehm said.
That sums it up. For everyone who loves Ombraz’s simplicity but wants a little more of a technical edge; more airflow, more coverage, more adaptability… this is the answer.
Where to buy
The Ombraz Refugio is available starting July 14 at ombraz.com.
Every pair comes with free shipping, a 30-day return window, and Ombraz’s lifetime warranty. And as always, for each frame sold, 20 mangrove trees are planted – you’ve got to love that sustainability commitment!
If you’ve been curious about armless sunglasses but waiting for a design that feels built for real adventure, the Refugio is ready for you.