Behind the Design: Couloir
Sunglasses Guide

Behind the Design: Couloir

What do we want? Innovative design combined with functionality! When do we want it? Now! Read on to see how our Couloir concept became a reality, and learn about the influence and inspiration behind these polarized glacier sunglasses.

Hey you, yeah you... Check out the Couloir and the rest of the Glacier collection

Hey you, yeah you... Check out the Couloir and the rest of the Glacier collection

The Idea

When we design any new pair, we begin by looking at what we already offer and challenge ourselves to create something different. Enter the Couloir. Our Alpine Collection already features some great shades, but we knew we wanted to introduce a bolder square shape.

Original Couloir sketch

Original Couloir sketch



Once the idea is in place, the fun begins. What kind of fun you ask? Moodboards! Getting the idea on paper and pulling together any influence or inspiration that goes into the design is essential to the process. It allows us to begin visualizing not only what the product will look like, but what kind of vibes it will give off as well.

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Couloir moodboard

For the Couloir, crisp architectural as well as automotive surfaces and proportions played an influential role in the aesthetic.

Couloir moodboard

Couloir moodboard 

“We wanted to communicate precision through the Couloir’s surfacing and details. We’ve learned a lot about what it takes to make a successful alpine product since we first launched the Treeline back in 2018”

-Sindre Klepp, Head of Design

The Design

The key to a great pair of bold, yet adventure-proof shades? Intricate, yet simple and precise surfaces with integrated side shields. Surface transitions paired with subtle abrupt directional changes make the Couloir stand out.

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The magnetic removable side shields create an organic contrast to the otherwise sharp angles of the frame, communicating a smooth connection to your face. Acting as a peripheral glare protector, the side shields have a unique morse code perforated pattern. No matter how hard you adventure, your shades won’t fog up as air is allowed to flow in through the perforations.

Sunski Couloir sunglasses

The Couloir is made with the backcountry adventurer in mind. In conditions when weight, comfort, and protection from the sun are key elements to a successful day of exploring, the Couloir should be your go to pair of shades. We never sacrifice functionality over style at Sunski and the Couloir is a perfect blend of both.

Meet the Author

blog bio - delaney low bridge sunglasses 

Delaney is a California native turned Colorado adventurer, who finds boundless joy in the great outdoors. From the beach to the mountains she likes to spend time outside in whatever capacity she can. As Web Operator at Sunski, Delaney loves to geek out on e-commerce and ensure that others can experience the beauty of the world through Sunski's digital presence.