Vallon Ventures Sunglasses Review

I’ve been testing the Vallon Ventures sunglasses on some of my sunny California runs and casual outings to see how they perform in different conditions.

They aim to combine a classic frame shape with some performance features such as polarized lenses, rubber nose pads, and a lightweight build.

Below, I’ll walk through key specifications, insights about Vallon, what makes these sunglasses notable, plus my personal take on where they shine and where they could be improved.

Key specifications

• Price: $112 at Vallon.com (includes free shipping and free returns, within 30 days)
• Frame Material: Bio-TR90 (45% organic materials), flexible and lightweight
• Weight: 0.9oz / 26g
• Lens Technology: Polarized V52® with 100% UV protection (UV400). Made from Nylon (impact-resistant, ABBE value 52)
• Nose Pads: Rubber for a more secure, non-slip fit
• Warranty: Lifetime coverage
• Size: 58-19-130mm (lens, bridge, temple), best suited for a wide face

While the frame may feel like acetate, Vallon states that it’s actually made of Bio-TR90, which is a sustainable nylon blend containing organic materials.

About Vallon

Vallon is known for blending retro-inspired silhouettes with modern performance features. Their lineup spans several styles, but what sets them apart is the emphasis on functional details like lightweight frames, polarized lenses, and a focus on sustainability.

➡ If you’d like to see other running sunglasses options, check out my overall best running sunglasses roundup for additional comparisons.

What makes the Vallon Ventures stand out

For me, the big draw is how they balance everyday wear style with specialized performance at a good price – not super affordable but not over-the-top expensive, either. Sure, there are quite a few brands out there that do this now but Vallon is another one playing at the top.

The Ventures’ design isn’t limited to running, by the way, they work equally well for cycling, hiking, or casual strolls around town too.

Despite weighing only 26 grams (yes, there are lighter, higher performance running sunglasses out there), they feel sturdy enough to handle routine bumps or accidental drops.

Vallon’s V52® lens technology reduces glare effectively (particularly around water or bright roads), and the tint options allow you to match your typical outdoor environment.

What’s good

One of the things I’ve enjoyed is the clarity these lenses offer – the polarized optics help keep everything looking sharp without weird color distortions, or glare from reflective or overly bright shiny objects.

They’re comfortable to wear for extended periods, too, thanks to a lightweight frame and the rubber nose pads stop them from slipping (see photo below).

The UV400 protection is comprehensive, which is especially important if you run in places with high-altitude sun exposure.

I also appreciate the overall build quality. Even though the frame is made from Bio-TR90 instead of true acetate, it has a robust feel that’s well-suited for daily wear.

It’s nice that Vallon backs them with a lifetime warranty, and the brand’s emphasis on sustainability (like using 45% organic materials for the frame) is a plus in my book.

Areas for improvement

The lens reflections on the inside can be a bit distracting at times. I’ve noticed that since there’s no backside anti-reflective coating, you occasionally catch glimpses of your own face or eye in certain bright conditions.

It doesn’t ruin the experience, but it’s something you might notice if you’re used to wearing sunglasses with anti-reflective treatments.

Another consideration is scratch resistance, Vallon doesn’t specify any hardened or scratch-resistant coating on these lenses.

If you’re someone who tends to toss gear in a backpack or on the car seat after a run, it’s worth thinking using the protective pouch that Vallon includes – it’s also waterproof (see photo above).

And finally, they don’t feel all that premium. I put this down to the material used in the frames, which just looks and feels very plastic. Maybe it’s the shiny black, or the vacuum molded Vallon logo on the side. I believe a matte black option would raise the bar here.

My verdict

Overall, the Vallon Ventures sunglasses bring together a laid-back aesthetic with practical details that I think many runners will appreciate, such as polarized lenses and a secure, lightweight frame.

They excel at glare reduction and clarity, making them a good option for anyone looking to blend performance with day-to-day versatility.

The lack of backside anti-reflection and limited information on scratch resistance are worth noting, but they don’t overshadow the comfortable fit and solid optical performance.

If you’re in the market for running sunglasses that also look great off the road or trail, the Vallon Ventures are a solid, and relatively affordably choice.

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