One Pair, Endless Adventures: Monterosa 2

As someone who spends a significant amount of time running, skiing, and working in exposed alpine environments, I need sunglasses that provide serious sun protection without feeling heavy or moving...

As someone who spends a significant amount of time running, skiing, and working in exposed alpine environments, I need sunglasses that provide serious sun protection without feeling heavy or moving around on my face, even when the sun is not fully out. The Julbo Monterosa 2 sunglasses with REACTIV 2 4 polarized lenses have quickly become my go-to pair.

What I notice immediately was the fit. The Monterosa 2 ia designed for smaller faces (like mine) and the frame, non-slip nose bridge, and Grip Tech temples leep the glasses securely in place without creating uncomfortable pressure points. They are so lightweight and comfortable that I often forget I am wearing them. More importantly, they do not bounce, slide down my nose, or shift around while running.

My favorite feature is the wraparound sun protection. The removable shields block the light that would otherwise enter around the edges of a traditional pair of sunglasses. This makes a noticeable difference when I am spending long days above treeline. Unlike other glasses with wrap around protection, the Monterosa 2 does not feel bulky or overly technical. They feel like the perfect everyday glasses for someone living in the mountains wanting ultimate sun protection.

The REACTIV 2-4 polarized lenses automatically adjust as light conditions change, becoming darker in intense high altitude sunlight and lighter when clouds move in. The bown tint provides clear comfortable vision and I would relate this low light visibility to the POC Light brown mirror-less lens which I do not think they make anymore, but was one of my go to lenses for afternoon training when I was on the FIS alpine circuit. So safe to say, the Julbo Monterosa 2 will be the glasses I reach for during later afternoon/early evening nordic practices this winter.

What sets the product apart?

The combination of wraparound protection, a secure fit, and adaptable lens technology sets the Monterosa apart. Many glacier glasses provide excellent coverage but feel too bulky for running or everyday wear, while many running glasses leave significant gaps around the sides leaving your eyes and skin exposed to sun damage. The Monterosa 2 provides the protection of a mountain-specific frame while remaining light and comfortable. The REACTIV lenses also eliminates the need to carry multiple pairs of glasses as conditions change. I also have the Julbo Legacy glacier glasses with the 2-4 REACTIV lense which I absolutely love. Personally, I reach for the Legacy glasses when I am guiding or will have a full day or multi day trip out in the mountains, but the Moneterosa feel like a more appropriate choice for walking around town or throwing in my bag for practice.

Who is the product for?

The Monterosa 2 is ideal for anyone who spends time in the mountains,
from guides and mountain athletes to the mountain town local just looking for
their next everyday pair of sunnies. The frame is particularly well suited to
people with smaller heads who struggle to find technical glasses that fit
securely. As someone with quite a small head, these glasses fit PERFECTLY, I
truly could not even tell that I was wearing them even when on long runs.

Friendliness to the Earth

One of the coolest things about Julbo is the repairability of their gear. Julbo sells replacement lenses, temple arms, and side shields allowing damaged or worn components to be replaced without discarding the entire pair. Extending the usable life of technical gear is one of the most meaningful ways to reduce its overall environemental footprint.

The Final Word

The Julbo Monteros 2 delivers the sun protection I need in alpine environments without sacrificing comfort or stability during high-output activities. The wraparound coverage protects my eyes from direct and reflected light, the REACTIV polarized lenses adapt to changing conditions, and the secure fit means that they stay exactly where they should during activities.

Pros: The REACTIV lenses and the wrap around coverage

Cons: Honestly I have none

Rate (out of 5 stars, 1 being awful, 5 being perfect) the following categories:

-Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5)

- Features: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5)

- Fit:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5)

- Durability:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5)

- Eco-Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐ (3)

Monterosa 2

4.5 / 5

$234.95

The Monterosa 2 takes everything you love about the Montebianco 2 and scales it down for smaller faces—without dialing back the performance. With a sleek and modern design, this adventure-ready frame features Grip Tech temples, a non-slip nose bridge, and removable side shields for serious protection when the terrain (and sunlight) gets intense. From summit views to everyday trails, Monterosa 2 is built to go big—even if it fits a bit smaller.

Color Black / Brown With REACTIV 2-4 Polarized Lens

About the Author

Danielle Taylor (DT) is a professional skier who currently races alpine on the World Pro Ski Tour and nordic for the University of Wyoming. During her undergraduate she skied and climbed for Colby College. DT is a PhD candidate at the University of Wyoming, where she studies aging systems neuroscience. Additionally, DT is an AIARE instructor and guide for Apex Mountaineering as well as the AIARE PGN Colorado mentor. You can connect with her on Instagram @dtaylordst or on TikTok @dt_alpine!