There’s nothing better than flying down the road on a clear, sunny day, feeling the engine hum, and bobbing your head to your favorite tunes. But there’s no worse feeling than squinting into the sun while you do it, struggling to see clearly through the relentless glare.

　　A good pair of driving sunglasses leaves you free to enjoy your drive and experience the nuance of your vehicle’s handling and response without any distraction or discomfort from the sun. Nearly as important, the best driving sunglasses also go a long way in upping your cool factor. What do iconic Hollywood driving scenes have in common? Sunglasses.

　　After years of ongoing on-the-road testing, we compiled this list of the best driving sunglasses on the market. At the end of our list, be sure to check out our comprehensive buyers guide as well as our comparison chart. And if you have some questions, take a look at our list of frequently asked questions.

　　Editors Note: We updated this Guide on May 14, 2024 with the addition of the Smith Redding Chromapop Glass and the Tifosi Swick Polarized, two of our new top picks.

　　The Best Driving Sunglasses of 2024 Best Overall Sporty Driving Sunglasses: Smith Redding Chromapop Glass Best Overall Classic Driving Sunglasses: Maho Sundance Best Budget Driving Sunglasses: Tifosi Swick Polarized Best Aviator Style Driving Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Classic Aviator Best Over Frame Driving Sunglasses: Fiore Over Glasses Best Driving Sunglasses for Extreme Glare: Oakley Holbrook Mix Most Stylish Driving Sunglasses: Persol Steve McQueen Best Overall Sporty Driving Sunglasses Smith Redding Chromapop Glass Specs Best for Wraparound coverage in all conditions Lens material Glass Frame Size Medium Lens Shape Square Polarized Yes

　　Pros Excellent optics and color accuracy Wraparound style provides great peripheral coverage Close, comfortable fit Cons Close fit can cause fogging during active use Bryon Dorr From the first time trying them on, to our daily drives and extended road trips, we were impressed with the Smith Redding ChromaPop Glass Sunglasses ($275) for providing some of the best optical clarity and color accuracy of any sunglasses we tested. Smith Optics is a big player in the outdoor eyewear game, and their ChromaPop lenses have become some of our favorites for both sunglasses and ski goggles for their accurate color representation and excellent contrast.

　　We also appreciate the wraparound style of these glasses that provides excellent peripheral coverage. Many other sunglass models have flatter base angles, meaning that glare from reflections off of buildings, pavement, other cars, or bodies of water can sneak in through the sides of the glasses and distract you or affect your vision while driving. While we appreciate a classic pair of Aviators, we really like how the Redding provides excellent protection and blocks light from every angle.

　　While we appreciate the wraparound design, this gives these shades a decidedly sporty look, which might not suit drivers going for a more classic aesthetic. We also noticed that the close-fitting design reduces ventilation, and that these sunglasses fogged up quicker than most during more fast-paced activities like trail running.

　　Given the excellent optics and wraparound protection, we love the Smith Redding ChromaPop Glass Sunglasses, and highly recommend them for driving or daily use.

　　$265 at REICheck Price at Smith Optics Best Overall Classic Driving Sunglasses Maho Sundance Specs Best for Long road trips, overcast conditions Lens material Polycarbonate Frame Size Medium/large Lens Shape Aviator Polarized Yes

　　(Photo/Maho) Pros Good value Filters out glare Versatile Cons Like many polarized styles, these glasses make LCD screens difficult to read Bryon Dorr Pairing classic aviator style with modern technology, the Maho Sundance ($195) is among our favorite driving sunglasses for road trips. The acetate and stainless steel frames are feather-light and provide a clear view of the road, while the patented Zuma earpieces provide a perfect no-slip fit.

　　The polarized grey lenses block glare (though they do make LCD screens hard to read). They can also be fitted with prescription lenses. We tried these glasses out on rides around town and on long road trips, and they performed well on both sunny and overcast days, providing clear vision and an excellent feel.

　　These sunglasses offer unbeatable value. They have the look and feel of a high-end pair but cost less than half the cost of many high-end models. If you’re looking for a great-looking, top-performance pair of sunglasses for the road (or really anywhere you want to look cool), the Maho Sundance is a great option.

　　check price at maho Best Budget Driving Sunglasses Tifosi Swick Polarized Specs Best for Active use, all-around wear Lens material Polycarbonate Frame Size Medium/Large Lens Shape Square Polarized Yes

　　Pros Affordable price Comfortable fit Good coverage and protection Cons Sportier style might not suit everyone Bryon Dorr Tifosi Optics is a relatively newer eyewear company (founded in 2003) that has made an impact with their affordable athletic eyewear. The Tifosi Swick Polarized ($60) is a high-quality example of a great all-around pair of sunglasses ideal for driving, faster-paced activities, or regular daily wear.

　　We really like how easy-wearing these sunglasses are. Theyre lightweight, provide nice coverage, and have a generous fit that still stays put during faster-paced activities. Their style is on the sportier end, but they have enough of a casual flair that we were comfortable wearing them in our day-to-day activities, not just while driving in the car.

　　The Emerald Polarized lenses that we tested provide great clarity and tend to make colors appear a little warmer (more redish), which we typically prefer over lenses that make colors appear a little cooler (more blueish).

　　We really like the versatility of the Tifosi Swick Polarized and appreciate the affordable price tag.

　　Check Price at Tifosi$60 at Amazon Best Aviator Style Driving Sunglasses Ray-Ban Classic Aviator Specs Best for Classic aesthetics, great peripheral vision Lens material Crystal Frame Size Medium Lens Shape Aviator Polarized No

　　(Photo/Ray-Ban) Pros Sleek classic appearance Durable lenses Plentiful peripheral vision, minimal bind spots Cons Lacks peripheral coverage Not all styles are polarized Bryon Dorr Obviously, we had to include the classics. The Ray-Ban Classic Aviator ($230) sunglasses were originally made for U.S. aviators in 1937 and have been a mainstay in U.S. culture ever since.

　　Not one to rest on its laurels, Ray-Ban’s current aviators sport g-15 polarized lenses for amazing clarity. The instantly recognizable lens shape gives drivers a wide area of coverage. Additionally, the minimal wireframes allow for a wide range of peripheral vision.

　　Ray-Ban offers these iconic sunglasses in a wide variety of lens and frame color combos, as well as lens width so that you can personalize your style with the perfect set.

　　$230 at REIcheck price at amazonCheck Price at Backcountry Best Over Frame Driving Sunglasses Fiore Over Glasses Sunglasses Specs Best for Wearing over prescription glasses Lens material Plastic Frame Size Medium Lens Shape Wrap around rectangle Polarized Yes

　　(Photo/Fiore) Pros Affordable Compatible with most prescription glasses Cuts glare Cons Slightly bulky Bryon Dorr If you wear glasses and want to avoid a pricey set of prescription sunglasses, this over-the-glasses option from Fiore ($17) is a great way to go. They fit comfortably over most pairs of glasses without creating that look that will immediately label you an octogenarian.

　　In addition, the lenses block both UVA and UVB rays, while the polarization helps cut glare. The lenses extend around the frame to either side, allowing for a wide field of vision without exposing your eyes to the sun’s rays.

　　check price at amazon Best Driving Sunglasses for Extreme Glare Oakley Holbrook Mix Specs Best for Driving on bright summer days Lens material Plastic Frame Size Medium Lens Shape Rectangle Polarized Yes

　　(Photo/Oakley) Pros Impressive contrast enhancement Durable frame Handsome styling Cons Expensive for plastic lenses Bryon Dorr The latest version of Oakley’s classic frame, the Oakley Holbrook Mix ($270), controls light transmission, enhances contrast, and increases overall visibility.

　　The frame has been updated with stainless steel reinforcements while retaining the comfort and style of the original. For bright days and summer driving, these lenses are ideal for providing a crystal-clear view. Plus, the styling and fit are on-point.

　　$270 at AmazonCheck Price at Backcountrycheck price at oakley Most Stylish Driving Sunglasses Persol Steve McQueen Specs Best for All-day comfort, timeless style Lens material Acetate Frame Size Small/medium Lens Shape Round/teardrop Polarized No

　　(Photo/Persol) Pros Stylish Quality materials Cons Expensive for non-polarized glasses Bryon Dorr Steve McQueen wore these sunnies ($482) in the legendary film The Thomas Crown Affair. If that fact alone doesn’t make you rush out and buy these handmade Italian shades, the durable acetate frame, three-point foldability, and timeless style should do the trick.

　　In addition, the Meflecto tech relieves stress on your temples, which means you can rock them during your entire road trip without fatigue. And if you want to go big, they’ve also released 24-carat gold-plated lenses to celebrate this model’s anniversary (yes, you can see through them).

　　Check Price at Amazoncheck price at Persol Best of the Rest RAEN Pierce Specs Best for Bright conditions, larger face shapes Lens material CR-39 (glass-like resin) Frame Size Large Lens Shape Square Polarized No

　　(Photo/RAEN) Pros Great fit for larger faces Effective on sunny days Durable hinges Cons Not polarized Bryon Dorr The Pierce sunglasses from RAEN ($185) have an aggressive square frame. Not only does this provide a sharp, stylish look, but it also allows for bigger lenses and better sun protection, a definite must-have in the best driving sunglasses.

　　The lenses themselves sport tech from Carl Zeiss Vision. Carl Zeiss, a company known for its exceptional SLR and mirrorless camera lenses, builds its sunglass lenses with the same precision and quality. This provides pristine optics and top-of-the-line sun protection.

　　The 5-barrel hinges have embedded wire cores in the temples, and the handmade acetate frames have a polished finish.

　　$185 at AmazonCheck Price at Backcountry Merrys Polarized Aluminum Sunglasses Specs Best for Folks on a budget Lens material Nylon Frame Size Medium Lens Shape Square Polarized  Yes

　　(Photo/Merrys) Pros Affordable price Included case Good value for polarized lenses Cons Not the most durable Bryon Dorr If you’re shopping on a budget, it’s hard to go wrong with these polarized sunglasses from Merry’s ($30). The aluminum frames are lightweight, and the lenses come in eight color options.

　　The lenses are also polarized, which is a rarity in sunglasses in this price range. You won’t find the bells and whistles that you would on some of the pricier options on this list, but if you’re just looking for a solid pair of glasses (or want to buy several different lens colors), these are a great option.

　　Plus, you don’t have to treat these as precious. It’s nice to own a reliable pair of sunglasses that can stand to be tossed around a little that wont set you back a car payment if you break them.

　　$16 at Amazon Legere Round Specs Best for All-day wear, rugged use Lens material Polycarbonate Frame Size Medium Lens Shape Round Polarized No

　　(Photo/Legere) Pros Lightweight Durable Cons Not polarized Some glare issues Bryon Dorr If you’re looking for a super lightweight pair of sunglasses, the Legere Round ($110) is the way to go. Weighing in at a mere 17 grams, these sunnies have a sports glasses feel with styling that would fit in at the racetrack. And that lightweight doesn’t mean fragility: Legere’s proprietary UltraCarbon frame material is extremely durable and highly flexible. You can actually sit on them without having them lose shape.

　　And that’s exactly what we did during testing. On one of our drive test days, a tester made the same mistake we’ve all made at least once and left the Legere Round on the driver’s seat. Though embarrassing, it provided the perfect confirmation of durability, as the shades kept their shape and still fit like a glove. That durable frame, combined with the scratch-resistant lens coating, makes these the lightest and most durable shades we’ve seen.

　　check price at amazon American Optical Original Pilot Specs Best for Everyday wear, classic aviator looks Lens material AOLite™ Nylon Frame Size Medium Lens Shape Aviator Polarized No

　　Pros Lightweight Comfortable Minimalist design Cons Not polarized Bryon Dorr Since their inception five decades ago, these sunglasses from American Optical ($194) have been a mainstay for U.S. military pilots. And you might even recognize them as similar AO sunglasses featured in popular media, including the classic film Taxi Driver.

　　The minimalist wireframe maximizes visibility while driving, and the optional polarized lenses cut glare and protect your eyes while on the road. They also come in three different sizes, so you can grab the perfect pair to fit your face.

　　check price at amazoncheck price at American Optical Maui Jim Wiki Wiki Specs Best for Fans of the classic wire frame look Lens material Composite Frame Size Medium Lens Shape Rectangle Polarized Yes

　　Pros Stylish Quality materials Cons Expensive for non-polarized glasses Bryon Dorr This list wouldn’t be complete without at least one pair of Maui Jims ($319). For driving, we like the Wiki Wiki not only because it’s fun to say but also for the minimalist wireframe as well as the warm bronze lens.

　　It comes in both bronze and grey lenses, but we’re particularly fond of the bronze for its ability to provide a clear view in a wide spectrum of situations. That makes these sunglasses great for varying weather conditions and cloudy days where the sun tends to disappear and reappear while you’re on the road.

　　$264 at Amazoncheck price at amazoncheck price at scheels Ray-Ban Clubmaster Square Specs Best for Fans of the classic ’50s Clubmaster look Lens material Crystal Frame Size Small/medium Lens Shape Round Polarized Yes

　　(Photo/Ray-Ban) Pros Unisex style Quality materials Clear optics Cons Retro style isn’t for everyone Bryon Dorr We had to include these Ray-Bans for anyone who has to share their ride — or their sunglasses. The Clubmaster Square sunglasses ($163) are comfortable and come with different color lenses to block light and give you clear vision during your drive.

　　Even better, these unisex sunglasses look good on both men and women so that you can leave them in the car, and your partner can use them as well. In general, it makes them a great fit for anyone who needs some glare protection. Note: avoid the blue and pink lenses, as they can distort colors like red and green.

　　check price at amazoncheck price at ray-ban Best Driving Sunglasses Comparison Chart

　　We tested the best driving sunglasses in a variety of styles, shapes, and lens colors; (photo: GearJunkie) How We Tested the Best Driving Sunglasses Our team of testers has been carefully scrutinizing the sunglasses market for years. Great sunglasses are great sunglasses, but we recognize that certain characteristics are extra important while driving. To develop our list of recommendations, we drove in all sorts of conditions, from glare-heavy late afternoon sun to overcast mornings.

　　Leading the ongoing testing effort is Bryon Dorr, our Motors Editor with 20-plus years of expertise as an automotive journalist. Dorr drives all sorts of vehicles across all sorts of terrain, and hes thoroughly aware of what makes a good pair of driving glasses.

　　In our latest 2024 update, year-round Tahoe resident Nick Bruckbauer added a few new pairs of shades to this review, drawing on his experience driving in the high-altitude sunshine and reflective snow around Lake Tahoe, and from road-tripping between the west coast and his family in the midwest.

　　While testing, we consider frame and lens quality, overall durability, glare control, peripheral vision, comfort, and style. All of the sunglasses on this list stood out from the pack. As new styles hit the market, well be sure to test and consider them for this list. At any given time, our recommendations include the best of the best.

　　Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Driving Sunglasses Eye Protection Too much sunlight can cause permanent damage to our eyes. Just like skin, eyes need to be protected from the sun’s UV rays. A good pair of sunglasses will keep your eyes safe and comfortable on andoff the road.

　　Driving Safety In bright conditions, sunglasses can help us see the road ahead with clarity and accuracy. Without sunglasses, our ability to perceive depth and distance can be severely impaired, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.

　　Comfort Accurate vision and eye protection aside, driving in the bright sun is just plain uncomfortable. Without driving sunglasses, prolonged squinting can lead to nagging headaches.

　　What To Look for When Purchasing the Best Driving Sunglasses

　　The best pair of driving sunglasses is the one that lets you drive most safely and comfortably; (photo: Nick Bruckbauer) Your go-to driving sunglasses should elevate your experience behind the wheel. When it comes time to select the best pair for you, there are several important factors to consider. In this buyer’s guide, we will go over the primary benefits of the best driving sunglasses and thoroughly explain what you should consider before making a purchase. Don’t settle for anything less than the perfect pair of driving sunglasses.

　　Type of Frame Frame Size Shape Before purchasing a pair of the best driving sunglasses, it is wise to make sure they are well-fitted and comfortable. Different frame sizes and shapes work better for different people. You will want a frame that will not cause discomfort or require constant adjustment. Some common frame types to check out include wayfarers, aviators, circular, rectangular, shield, and rimless. If you’re unsure what size or type of frame fits your face best, go try on some shades in person to start narrowing down your options.

　　Frame Type Coverage Glasses with wider frames and taller lens designs will provide more coverage and protection. Remember that sunlight can also enter your eyes from the side while you are driving, and it may be wise to choose a pair of glasses that provides added protection from all angles.

　　We really like the wraparound style of the Smith Redding sunglasses, which helps prevent sunlight or glare from hitting the sides of your eyes; (photo: Nick Bruckbauer) Frame Material While frame material comes down to personal preference, you should be aware that some materials are more flexible and durable than others. Most driving sunglasses feature a frame made out of acetate or nylon. Both materials are lightweight and are able to hold their shape even in extreme conditions. Metal frames are common, too, though they tend to offer less wraparound protection.

　　Type of Lens Polarized Lenses A good-quality pair of driving sunglasses should have polarized lenses. When harsh sunlight reflects off surfaces, including tail lights, puddles, and stop signs, the resulting glare can be temporarily blinding. Polarized lenses can block some of this intense reflected light and make driving safer and more comfortable. Some of our favorite lenses are the ChromaPop lenses from Smith Optics.

　　Drivers should be aware that polarized lenses can also make it difficult to see some digital dashboard displays. Before purchasing, test the sunglasses against your dash display to make sure you can still read the displays.

　　Gradient Lenses Gradient lenses are lighter at the bottom and darker toward the top. While driving, the darker part of gradient lenses can block sunlight, while the lighter portion of the lens will still allow you to see your dashboard and the road clearly.

　　Transitions Lenses Transition lenses are able to change from clear to dark depending on the light conditions. Because these lenses rely on direct UV light to work, they probably aren’t the best choice for driving, as your car’s windshield filters out some of the sun’s UV light. Still, there are some great driving sunglasses with transition lenses.

　　Different lens designs and tints can impact how you see the road and your dashboard instruments; (photo: GearJunkie) Lens Material Most sunglasses lenses are made from polycarbonate or glass. Glass tends to offer the best optical clarity and is also harder and more scratch-resistant. While polycarbonate lenses are not as durable, they are more lightweight and less likely to break upon impact.

　　Durability The durability of a pair of sunglasses depends on materials, craftsmanship, and weight. In general, glass lenses are more scratch-resistant, while polycarbonate lenses are less likely to shatter under impact. Acetate and nylon frames strike a good balance between hardiness and flexibility. When you aren’t wearing your glasses, keep them protected in a place where they will not be scratched or damaged.

　　Price The price of a pair of driving sunglasses can vary from under $50 to well over $400. Many cheaper pairs will not be polarized or provide adequate UV protection. More expensive sunglasses may include higher-quality materials and lens technology. We always recommend making your selection based on comfort and performance rather than price.

　　Frequently Asked Questions What is the best pair of driving sunglasses? That depends. The best pair of driving sunglasses are the ones that offer the kind of comfort and performance that you prefer. We endorse all of the glasses on this list, and we always recommend that you try a few different options before purchasing. Our favorite classic-looking shades are the Maho Sundance and our favorite sportier-looking model is the Smith Redding.

　　Should I wear sunglasses while driving? Driving with sunglasses during the daytime helps you see the road ahead and prevents your eyes from becoming fatigued. We always recommend at least having a pair of sunglasses available in the car in case you need them.

　　What color lenses should I get? Most drivers prefer a neutral-colored lens that is either grey or copper-toned. Neutral lenses enhance your vision without altering the colors that you see. Depending on the light conditions, you may want lighter or darker lenses to filter the appropriate amount of light.

　　Do polarized lenses eliminate glare? Polarized sunglassescan reduce harsh glare and reflected light. In bright or highly reflective conditions, many drivers successfully use polarized sunglasses to lessen the effects of glare and block harmful UV rays.

　　The Best Sunglasses for the Outdoors in 2024 Go beyond style with sunglasses that combine classic good looks with next-level technology and design.

　　The Best Dash Cams of 2024 Searching for a dashboard camera to record road trips? We tested dash cams so you can find the perfect accessory for your windshield.