As an avid group of outdoors people, GearJunkie has had the chance to put hundreds of sunglasses to the test in harsh conditions. We have tested literally hundreds of sunglasses. Over the years, the cream has really risen to the top, producing this list of the best sunglasses for outdoor pursuits.

　　The lead tester of this review has been kind of crazy for sunglasses ever since he had corrective LASIK eye surgery in 2016. After a lifetime of corrective lenses, LASIK opened up a new reality in which Denvers 300 yearly sunny days became a remarkable opportunity to wear shades regularly.

　　Below, youll find a selection of the best sunglasses you can buy. We also include some good budget sunglasses and pursuit-specific eyewear for fishing, boating, running, mountaineering, and more. Finally, we feature a few models that meld fashion and function.

　　If you dont have time to shop and just need the best sunglasses for general outdoor use, we recommend the Costa del Mar Fantail Pro or, for smaller faces, the Mainsail. For women, we recommend the Smith Optics Wander — or check out the Tifosi Swank if youre looking for a more budget-friendly option.

　　Editors Note: We updated this guide on November 20, 2024, with the addition of the Wiley X Founder as the best protective sunglasses and a Price Value summary explaining what you get for your money.

　　The Best Sunglasses of 2024 Best Overall Sunglasses for Men: Costa del Mar Fantail Pro Best Overall Sunglasses for Women: Smith Optics Wander Best Budget Sunglasses: Knockaround Best Sunglasses for Fishing: Bajío Vega Best Sunglasses for Hiking and Backpacking: Ombraz Armless Sunglasses Best Protective Sunglasses: Wiley X Founder Best Sunglasses for Endurance Sports: Julbo Fury Costa Del Mar Fantail Pro $292 at AmazonCheck Price at Scheels

　　

　　

　　

　　Specs Fit: Large Frame material: Bioresin Lens options: 580 G lightwave glass or 580 P polycarbonate Special features: Sweat management channels, rubber side shields, eyewire drains, metal keeper slots Pros Top-quality, scratch-resistant glass lenses Excellent polarization Customizable nosepiece 10% light transmission Cons Expensive A little heavy for running due to glass lenses Sean McCoy All in all, Costa del Mar is one of the best sunglasses brands on the market, particularly for outdoor use. While the brand focuses on water sports and fishing, the durability and lens quality is second to none.

　　One of its pinnacle products, the Fantail Pro ($292), packs in performance like no other pair of sunglasses weve tested this year. It takes the top slot of our best sunglasses of 2024.

　　In testing, we adored the crystal clear vision afforded by the Premium Polarized 580 Lenses on our test model sporting Green Polarized Mirror Glass. On bright days, the slightly amber lens provides a perfect blend of contrast and brightness reduction, with 10% light transmission.

　　The lenses are certainly the star of the show with Costa. But the frames also pack a punch. The Fantail Pro has an excellent customizable nosepiece that makes these glasses both secure and comfortable. The rubberized arm ends add a comfortable grip and aid in stability.

　　Whether youre relaxing on a boat or trudging up a peak, these sunglasses performance and customization make them some of the best for any outdoor pursuit.

　　A note on fit though: The Fantail Pros are relatively large sunglasses and fit larger faces best. If you have a smaller face, there are many options with the same premium lenses on Costas website.

　　Best Overall Sunglasses for Women Smith Optics Wander $205 at evoCheck Price at AmazonCheck Price at Smith Optics

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium Frame material: Bio-based Lens options: ChromaPop polarized glass lenses Special features: Flexible stainless steel temples, non-slip nose pads Pros Polarized Comfortable for everyday wear and activities like running Great style Cons Don’t come with a hard carrying case Sean McCoy Smiths Wander sunglasses ($205 to $215) are a little pricey, but after testing them for a few weeks, they quickly found their way onto this list as our top-rated womens sunglasses.

　　They boast quality construction, fit well, provide polarized protection against UV rays, and dont slip or slide around the face. Weve worn these glasses casually from day to day but also tested them while hiking and running. They fit into a unique category, as theyre stylish enough to wear from a day hike to apres at the brewery without looking out of place in either setting.

　　The Smith Wander shades have Smiths Chromapop lenses that enhance color and boost contrast — there are actually five different polarized options to choose from (VLT from 10% to 18% based on your preference).

　　These sunglasses have a lightweight bio-based frame and stainless steel temples. The bridge width is 18 mm, putting these shades in the category of a medium fit.

　　Finally, the clarity of the Wander lenses is fantastic. No matter how bright the sun gets where our travels take us, these shades havent let us down yet.

　　Read Review: The Harmonic Convergence of Fashion and Function

　　Best Budget Sunglasses Knockaround Sunglasses Check Price at KnockaroundCheck Price at Amazon

　　

　　Specs Fit: Average, varies by style Frame material: Plastic Lens options: Polarized poly lenses available Special features: Customizable colors Pros Affordable Fun colors and styles Protect eyes from UVA and UVB rays Cons Lower build quality Lenses are not nearly as good as more expensive brands Sean McCoy OK, we arent even going to call out a best from this brand, because there are numerous styles with a grip of customization options. During our testing, we thought all of the styles worked very well for a fair price. When it comes to decent sunglasses at a great price, Knockarounds (about $35 to $38 per pair) are hard to beat.

　　No, they wont stack up with a pair of Costas or Maui Jims. But lets face it — those brands dont come cheap. And if you cant afford them, or just happen to be someone who loses or abuses sunglasses, a more affordable pair makes a lot of sense.

　　At $35, these are about as cheap as quality sunglasses come these days. Dont know where to start? Read our full review here, and then head on over to the Custom Design Shop and go wild.

　　Best Sunglasses for Fishing Bajío Vega $209 at Bajio SunglassesCheck Price at Amazon

　　

　　Specs Fit: Large; 8-base curvature for greater wrap and side coverage Frame material: Bio-based nylon Lens options: Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate available. Many color options. Special features: Integrated leash compatibility, readers available Pros Insane clarity Customizable lens options Aggressive wrap style for increased coverage Lightweight Eco-friendly Cons Big. Might be too large for smaller faces No adjustable nosepiece Sean McCoy Bajío is relatively new to the fishing sunglasses market, but it is already crushing it. Among its options, the Vega ($209) stands out as an all-around performer. The brands most significant advantage over the competition? Clarity.

　　Unlike most other sunglass manufacturers, Bajío is focused on blue light. Cutting the blues by 95% results in less eye fatigue and a crazy crisp view. When our tester put on a pair for the first time, they just sat and stared at the mountains. Its like they make the real world just a bit more HD.

　　The lens color options are tailored to fit your specific fishing environment. We dont know much about fishing the salt flats, but the rose mirror lens makes fish pop out of mountain streams. Theyve become our go-to daily wearers for clarity and my obvious choice for the river.

　　If you like to hike up to mountain streams and lakes to fish, these are hard to beat. Check out some of the other best fishing sunglasses here.

　　Best Sunglasses for Hiking or Backpacking Ombraz Armless Sunglasses $160 at Ombraz Sunglasses

　　

　　Specs Fit: Varies by frame shape, though most frames are medium sized Lens options: Three tones each with different qualities — all made by Zeiss Special features: Armless, easily adjustable cordage Pros Stay secure on your face during activity Extremely durable. We’ve seen the brand founder put them in a soft case and stomp on them with no issue! No arms to break. See above. Great lenses Look good Cons Armless sunglasses require you to remove them over your head Can trap dirt while dangling off face Sean McCoy The brand Ombraz launched some of the most unique sunglasses ($160) on the market in 2018, and were glad to see theyre getting attention from retailers.

　　What makes them unique? They have no arms! Instead, a fabric strap holds the sunglasses over the ears. This means they have no arms to break, so you can stow them in a jacket pocket or pack without the worry of crushing them.

　　Our Editorial Director put them to the test for several months and was consistently impressed with the utility and quality of these sunglasses. They also look great, which was surprising considering the innovation.

　　Read Review: Sunglasses Without Arms Are Surprisingly Awesome

　　Best Protective Sunglasses Wiley X Founder $165 at AmazonCheck Price at Wiley X

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium to large Lens: Captivate polycarbonate lenses Special features: ANSI Z87.1 safety standards, dual-injected rubber temples Pros Light and comfortable Excellent lens clarity Good durability for polycarbonate lenses Cons No hard case included Sean McCoy Read Review: Wiley X Is Sneaky Good: WX Founder Sunglasses Are a Pleasant Surprise Wiley X is a brand with eye protection as its foundation. Founded as Protective Optics in 1987 by U.S. Army Veteran Myles Freeman Sr., the brands goal is to make the pinnacle protective eyewear. And after testing the Wiley X Founder for nearly a year, were convinced its achieved that goal.

　　The Founder ($140-206) is a stylish, bold, medium-to-large pair of sunglasses. It uses excellent polycarbonate lenses that meet ANSI Z87.1 safety standards for optical clarity and high-mass/high-velocity impact protection. And while thats all nice, it doesnt mean much unless they perform.

　　Thankfully, they really do! While not quite as clear as glass lenses, the Wiley X Founder has the best polycarbonate lenses weve tested. And for protective eyewear, thats a must. Better yet, theyve proven very scratch-resistant. Weve tested these while backpacking, hunting, fishing, and driving across the Midwest and Colorado. Theyve become a go-to pair for any time a little extra eye protection is a bonus. The only negative is that they dont come with a hard case, kind of a bummer at a relatively high price.

　　But if youre like us you probably have several cases already. So dont hesitate to grab these if you want top-tier sunglasses with a bit of extra eye protection.

　　Best Sunglasses for Endurance Sports Julbo Fury $230 at REICheck Price at Amazon

　　

　　Specs Fit: Wide, large lenses Frame material: Polymer Lens options: SPECTRON 3 CF with 13 percent light transmission, Photochromic REACTIV PERFORMANCE 1-3 with 17-75 percent light transmission Special features: Shock-absorbing nose bridge insert, wraparound panoramic lens Pros Very light REACTIV lenses work from near darkness to bright sun The protective shape keeps the wind at bay Cons Super athletic styling is not great for wear around town Expensive when coupled with REACTIV lenses Sean McCoy The Julbo Fury ($140-230) is one spectacular pair of sunglasses for athletes. Weve been testing a single pair for more than three years and still reach for them every day for our morning run or post-work ride.

　　These sunglasses are light, comfortable, protective, and have the best adaptable, light-adjusting lenses on the market. Julbo calls its tech REACTIV and its an appropriate name. In low light, they become nearly clear. This is awesome during winter morning runs before sunrise as they protect eyes from freezing winds.

　　And as the sun rises, they darken to block the rays. Theyre also great for post-work bike rides as you can wear them into the night, maintaining protection but not blocking light.

　　Julbo designed these sunglasses for cycling. We wear them for pretty much any sport, from running or biking to backcountry skiing. If they were a bit more stylish for everyday use, theyd be our best sunglasses on this list, as they really are fantastic.

　　Read Review: Julbo ‘Fury’ Are My Favorite New Sunglasses for Endurance Sports

　　Other Great Sunglasses We Tested Nathan Adventure Polarized Sunglasses $25 at Amazon

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium Frame material: TR90 Lens options: Several colors of polarized polycarbonate Special features: Integrated leash compatibility, readers available Pros Clear and wide field of vision Great quality Affordable price Cons Squarer style may not be a favorite for everyone Sean McCoy The Nathan Adventure Polarized Running Sunglasses ($60) were just released last year, and we already love them. These glasses have a lightweight TR90 thermoplastic frame, are durable yet light enough for hiking and trail running, and provide great coverage on the face. Theyre also comfortable for hours on end.

　　These Nathan sunglasses are the first from the brand, offering 100% UV protection and nose and temple inserts with grippy TPE. We’ve thoroughly tested these and can testify to their no-slip powers while running.

　　Another reason to love these sunglasses? They come in four color options and are also prescription lens compatible.

　　Overall, while we love these sunglasses’ simple design and polarized protection, the real reason they made our list is the quality for the low price — just 60 bucks. Moving fast in sunglasses increases the odds of mishaps, and at the price, wed consider them replaceable.

　　Maui Jim Stone Shack $349 at AmazonCheck Price at Maui Jim

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium Frame material: Acetate Lens options: Polarized super thin glass with various color and treatment options including full mirror Special features: Hydrophobic lens treatment, anti-reflective coating Pros Clear, sharp SuperThin Glass lenses Top tier polarization Durable glass construction Stylish Cons Expensive No adjustable nosepiece The optional clear acetate frame model looks great, but the frame can let in some bright light on the edges Sean McCoy If Costa del Mar is the king of the fishing world, Maui Jim reigns supreme among sailors and recreational boaters. During a decade of living in the Caribbean, our head tester made friends with many boat captains. Their choice of sunglasses for long days under the harsh sun was Maui Jim.

　　The Maui Jim Stone Shack ($349) is a close runner-up to the sunglasses above. These have Maui Jims excellent SuperThin Glass lenses, which proved in testing on both bright snow and sand dunes to be clear, durable, and easy on the eyes.

　　Much like the Costa del Mar, the Stone Shack also thrives on the water with world-class polarization.

　　It lacks the adjustable nosepiece and comes in at an even higher price, so the Fantail Pro stands a slot above. But these are hard to beat if you love the acetate frame style in a high-end pair of sunglasses.

　　Costa Del Mar Mainsail $249 at AmazonCheck Price at Scheels

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium Frame material: Bioresin Lens options: 580 G lightweight polarized glass, 580 P polarized polycarbonate Special features: Numerous lens colors available, Hydrolite temples and nose pads Pros Stylish Fits many facial shapes Touch points are soft and grippy Cons Not as much coverage as some glasses Sean McCoy The Mainsail ($269) brings the same fantastic Costa lenses (yeah, we see the pattern, too) in a smaller but still protective package. The Mainsail is a little less technical and sport-forward than some of the other models, so they work great as a fashion sunglass.

　　The Mainsail has grippy rubber on the ear and nosepieces, giving them a locked-in feel. Our tester is using a pair with 580G glass lenses regularly — for running! Its uncommon for a glass-lens sunglass to fit comfortably for running, so this is a real testament to the fit and finish on the Mainsail.

　　Yes, its another pair of Costas, for good reason. This brand has been firing on all cylinders lately and its products have withstood tons of abuse and shine on like new. We love this model specifically because it fits a wide variety of faces and has a great stylish look that can go anywhere from a saltwater fishing trip in the tropics to a mountaintop or an afternoon at an outdoor cafe.

　　Costa Del Mar Waterwoman 2 $232 at AmazonCheck Price at Glasses USA

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium — Average coverage with open frame design Frame Material: Bioresin Lens Options: Polarized polycarbonate and polarized glass Special Features: Rx available Pros Premium Quality Unique Style Cons Expensive Sean McCoy The Waterwoman ($212) combines Costas incredible lenses with a large, stylish frame. These sunglasses give broad sun protection and are wildly popular with women who spend a lot of time on the water.

　　Our tester used these consistently in the bright sun of Colorado and has also used them traveling in Europe and Hawaii. She loves them for their secure fit and fun style that goes a little outside the norm — and what better place for expression than sunglasses? If these have a downside, its one shared with any translucent frames; in bright light, you may see glare through the frame.

　　These smart sunnies have a medium fit, which should fit many narrow to average-size faces, and a high nose bridge. The nose and ear contact points use grippy pads to ensure a locked-in feel.

　　Oakley Frogskins $131 at evoCheck Price at Amazon

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium Frame material: O-Matter lightweight synthetic material Lens options: Several options including Oakleys Prizm and Plutonite technologies. Polarized and non-polarized lenses available Special features: Balanced three-point fit, many lens tint options Pros Light Good lenses Renowned impact resistance Cons Limited editions sell out quickly Might be too casual for some situations Sean McCoy Oakley introduced its iconic Frogskins ($125-195) during the Reagan administration. And if you dont remember trickle-down economics and the fall of the Berlin Wall, lets just say the fashion of the time was lit! And the Oakley Frogskins fit right in.

　　Oakley revived the Frogskin for the modern era, and they still look both good and bold. But more importantly, they perform extremely well. In our testing, the PRIZM JADE lens provides very good contrast in both bright sunlight and overcast conditions. And as with all Oakleys, they have excellent impact resistance.

　　The Lightweight O Matter frame material fits snugly on the nose and temples but is very comfortable. They wont slide around on the face and work well in moderate athletic situations. If youre looking for a pop of color and retro style, there are a lot of options available on Oakleys website.

　　Costa Del Mar Pescador $234 at AmazonCheck Price at Scheels

　　

　　Specs Fit: Large Frame material: Nylon Lens options: 580 G lightwave glass or 580 P polycarbonate Special features: Contoured arms and rubberized nose pads Pros Top-quality Costa del Mar glass lenses Crystal clear vision Made from recycled fishing nets Cons Heavy on the nose after many hours Won’t fit smaller faces Sean McCoy Four years ago, Costa built a line of sunglasses with frames made from recycled fishing nets. Aptly named the Untangled collection ($229), its a wonderful idea. It gives us one more way to support plastic recycling and helps remove one more drop from the ocean of plastic that pollutes our seas. And furthermore, theyre excellent sunglasses!

　　Remember when we mentioned owning sunglasses that are four years old and still going strong? Well, its these, with the blue polarized 580G glass lenses. We cannot believe how well theyve held up to seriously hard use on boats, in the field hunting, and in everyday use.

　　We struggled to decide where these should fit in our lineup. One tester thought they should be best overall. But in reading reviews, its clear that they dont fit people with smaller faces well at all.

　　They are also a little heavy and dont protect from glare on the side as much as the overall winner. But they do look great and are excellent everyday sunglasses if they fit your face well.

　　All sunglasses in the Costa del Mar lineup are superb, but if you want to lend a hand in reshaping the environment, you wont sacrifice performance with the Pescador ($229).

　　Roka Phantom Titanium Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at Roka

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium, standard aviator fit and scale Frame material: Titanium Lens options: C3 poly lenses, polarized and non polarized options available Special features: Geko nose pads for traction and comfort Pros Very good lenses Extremely light Stylish if you like aviators Very durable Secure on face for running Cons Expensive Sean McCoy ROKA burst on the scene a couple of years ago with aviators for running. Since then, the brand has churned out some really cool styles that are function-forward.

　　The Phantom — the brands first aviators ($290) — remains one of our favorite sunglasses of all time. At 19 ounces, they are remarkably light. And with no-slip Geko Pads that cling to the face when wet, theyre ideal for running.

　　The titanium frames are both light and strong, but the standout feature of these sunglasses is the lens. They are clear, sharp, and durable, holding up to a year of testing with no scratching.

　　If youre looking for the aviator style with functionality that goes far beyond sheer looks, these are a great choice.

　　Read Review: ‘Performance Aviators’ Are Made for Sport

　　Spy Discord $200 at Spy Optic$120 at Amazon

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium to large Frame material: Grilamid lightweight poly Lens options: Many colors available with and without polarization Special features: SPY+’s revolutionary therapeutic Happy lens tech is scientifically tuned to boost mood and alertness Pros Grilamid frames can take a beating Frames have 5-barrel hinges Available in many different lens/frame combos Cons No glass lens for the price point Sean McCoy The Spy Discord starts with super-durable Grilamid frames. Thats the material used for top-tier ski boots and its tough but flexible. Next, it adds clear and vibrant lenses. Our tester is a fan of the Happy lenses ($200), which the brand claims are tuned to boost mood and alertness while enhancing color and contrast.

　　Do they work? Well, thats arguable. But we can say they are clear and provide nice color vision. Theyre also durable. Weve had a pair in testing for more than a year, and the lenses show very minimal wear.

　　This model fits medium to larger faces and brings classic 80s styling into the modern era.

　　Tifosi Swank $55 at REI$60 at Amazon

　　

　　Specs Fit: Medium Frame material: Grilamid TR-90 nylon Lens options: Polarized polycarbonate Special features: Glare guard, hydrophilic rubber nosepieces Pros Good lenses for a budget brand Build quality is better than cheaper models Cons Optics still don’t approach those of high-end brands Sean McCoy Tifosi is a pretty great brand for quality, well-priced sunglasses. While definitely a big improvement from cheap gas station sunglasses, they still only hit your wallet for about $60. If youre prone to losing sunglasses, it wont sting too badly.

　　Overall, the Tifosi Swank ($60) is our favorite model from the brand. With a very classic design, they look great on most peoples faces. The polycarbonate lenses are clear and light and offer 100% UVA/UVB protection.

　　They feel sturdier, and I honestly trust they’re protecting my eyes better than other budget brands, said our tester. The Tifosi Swank also comes in an XL model, which weve tested and liked as well.

　　If youre looking for high-end lookalikes in a cost-efficient package, give these affordable sunglasses a try.

　　Serengeti Lenwood Check Price at Serengeti

　　

　　Specs Fit: Large Frame material: Acetate Lens options: Photochromic mineral glass Special features: Anti-reflective coating Pros Classy and understated look Transitioning glass lens Excellent for driving Cons On the pricey side Sean McCoy Serengeti may lean toward the fashion market, but it makes fantastic sunglasses for driving. We tested the Serengeti Lenwood ($290 to $330) and fell in love with the Italian-made acetate frames. They look stunning in the Shiny Dark Havana pattern holding Mineral Polarized Drivers Cat 2 to 3 lenses.

　　The deep orange-brown hue of these sunglasses looks understated and classy on the face. And the view through the mineral lenses is warm, sharp, and, in our opinions, mood-boosting. On a sunny day with a blue sky, the world looks warmly rosy through this lens.

　　While we dont have a best sunglasses for driving category in our outdoor-oriented buying guide, these shades would be a top choice for driving. If your commute or regular drives have a lot of bright sunshine, our team strongly recommends the Lenwood in Mineral Polarized Drivers Cat 2 to 3 to enhance your day.

　　Kaenon Burnet $175 at AmazonCheck Price at Kaenon

　　

　　Specs Fit: Small to medium Frame material: TR-90 Lens options: Polarized poly Special features: Recessed nose pads, stainless steel hinges Pros Recessed nose pads ensure a snug fit Italian-made Cons Smaller frame size wont fit everyone Sean McCoy Another fabulous brand that is a little underrepresented in our testing is Kaenon, and the Burnet ($175) is among our favorite frames. The reason these didnt rank higher among our testers is largely because we didnt find a pair that fit our larger head size very well. All our test models were somewhat tight at the temples.

　　But while that isnt great for us with big heads, that could be a win for those who find most sunglasses too loose. The Burnet packs excellent Japanese-crafted SR-91 Polarized Lenses into a light, flexible TR-90 frame material. The result is excellent visual acuity and a stunning, protective package.

　　We really want to love the Kaenon, and expect this brand to climb in our ratings over time. Were always adding to our testing crew also, and are sending this pair to a reviewer with a narrower head. If you are looking for a somewhat narrower pair of sunglasses, these could fit the bill.

　　Sunglasses Comparison Chart

Sunglasses	Price	Fit	Frame Material	Lens Options	Special Features
Costa DelMarFantailPro	$292	Large. Designed to fit those with an average-sized head. 6-base curvature.	Bioresin	580 G lightwave glass or 580 P polycarbonate	Rx available, adjustable nose pads.
Smith Optics Wander	$199	Medium	Bio-based	ChromaPop polarized lenses	Flexible stainless steel temples, non-slip nose pads
Knockaround Sunglasses	$35	Average; varies by style	Plastic	Polarized and non-polarized lenses available	Customizable colors
Bajío Vega	$209	Large; 8-base curvature for greater wrap and side coverage	Bio-based nylon	Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate available, plus many color options	Integrated leash compatibility, readers available
Ombraz Armless Sunglasses	$160	Varies by frame shape, though most frames are medium sized	Bio-based nylon.	Three colors of Zeiss polarized polycarbonate	Armless, easily adjustable cordage
Wiley X Founder	$140-206	Medium to Large	not specified	5 polarized and non-polarized polycarbonate options	ANSI Z87.1+ certified, removable Side Shields
Julbo Fury	$140-230	Wide, large lenses	Polymer	SPECTRON 3 CF with 13 percent light transmission, Photochromic REACTIV PERFORMANCE 1-3 with 17-75 percent light transmission	Shock-absorbing nose bridge insert, wraparound panoramic lens
Nathan Adventure Polarized Sunglasses	$60	Medium	TR90	Several colors of polarized polycarbonate	rubber grip on temples, RX compatible
Maui Jim Stone Shack	$349	Medium	Acetate	Polarized or nonpolarized poly lenses available	Hydrophobic lens treatment, anti-reflective coating
Costa Del Mar Waterwoman 2	$284	Large	Bioresin	580 G lightwave glass or 580 P polycarbonate	Angled temples, integrated Hydrolite accents
Costa Del Mar Mainsail	$269	Medium	Bioresin	580 G lightweight polarized glass, 580 P polarized polycarbonate	Numerous lens colors available, hydrolite temples and nose pads
Oakley Frogskins	$125-195	Medium	O-Matter lightweight synthetic material	Several options, including Oakleys Prizm and Plutonite technologies. Polarized and non-polarized lenses available	Superb balanced three-point fit, many lens tint options clarity, flexible hinges.
Costa Del Mar Pescador	$229	Large	Nylon	580 G lightwave glass or 580 P polycarbonate	Contoured arms and rubberized nose pads
Roka Phantom Titanium	$290	Medium, standard aviator fit and scale	Titanium	C3 poly lenses, polarized and non polarized options available	Geko nose pads for traction and comfort
Spy Discord	$200	Medium to large	Grilamid lightweight poly	Many colors and polarization available	SPY+’s revolutionary therapeutic Happy lens tech is scientifically tuned to boost mood and alertness
Tifosi Swank	$60	Medium	Grilamid TR-90 nylon	Polarized polycarbonate	Glare guard, hydrophilic rubber nosepieces
Serengeti Lenwood	$290-330	Large	Acetate	Photochromic mineral glass	Anti-reflective coating
Kaenon Burnet	$175	Small to medium	TR90	Polarized poly	Recessed nose pads, stainless steel hinges

Scroll right to see more specs. How We Tested Sunglasses GearJunkie editors have spent years learning about outdoor products, including sunglasses. We meet with brands to learn about the latest technology. Then, we research and test the best products on the market to ensure they perform in their intended environment.

　　Our goal is to help you find the best products for your outdoor pursuits. And well do our best to find them within your budget, too.

　　The lead author of this article, Sean McCoy, has worked in the outdoor gear testing industry for nearly 15 years. He began his career serving customers as a rock climbing specialist at Midwest Mountaineering in Minneapolis. He then worked at newspapers to hone his reporting and research skills.

　　As GearJunkies former Editor-in-Chief, he tested hundreds of pairs of sunglasses over his 10 years at the helm. Today, he oversees editorial production across multiple websites, and he still loves testing gear.

　　Mary Murphy also contributed to this article. former managing editor at GearJunkie, Murphy put optics to the test as an avid hiker, paddleboarder, and skier.

　　Geajunkie editors Adam Ruggiero and Rachelle Schrute also contributed testing notes for this article.

　　

　　Our lead tester putting a pair of Oakleys through their paces; (photo/Sean McCoy) Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Sunglasses If youre shopping for sunglasses, were here to help. Below, find our best advice for choosing sunglasses for any budget. If youre searching for womens sunglasses specifically, be sure to check out our guide to the Best Sunglasses for Women. How about fishing, running, cycling, and driving? Dont worry, weve covered the Best Fishing Sunglasses, running sunglasses, cycling sunglasses, and driving sunglasses, too.

　　Best Sunglass Brands What are the best sunglasses brands? After in-depth testing and research, our team agrees that Costa del Mar makes the best sunglasses you can buy, period. We base that judgment on lens quality and durability, which weve found to be unrivaled even by other top sunglasses.

　　But if Costa isnt your jam, dont worry. There are many great premium sunglasses these days. The other best brands for sunglasses, according to our testing and research are Maui Jim, Bajío, Smith, and Spy. Roka makes great sunglasses for athletes, as do Julbo and Dynafit. Ombras and Shwood are both remarkably good for small brands.

　　Among the classics, Ray-Ban and Oakley are still excellent brands, and some of their classic styles are among the most popular on the planet.

　　If you want some party sunglasses on a budget, dont forget about Pit Viper, the bombastic brand that builds wild styles with quality lenses.

　　As an outdoor publication, we do not consider fashion-first sunglasses from designer or fashion-first brands. In our opinion, they do not match the quality of more focused sunglasses. If youre looking for styles from Chanel or Versace, youll need to look elsewhere.

　　

　　When considering brands, we also sought out the small and mighty, like Ombraz; (photo/Mary Murphy) Frames When choosing sunglasses, frame material helps dictate both appearance and weight. Among our favorite models, youll see recycled plastic from fishing nets and even titanium used for the frames.

　　Titanium makes an exceptionally light frame material we prize for its durability, but youll pay a premium price for it. Other metal frames include Monel, Flexon, and aluminum. Most of our test glasses for outdoor use do not use metal frames.

　　The majority of the frames we test are made from various types of plastic. Common plastics include zyl (zylonite or cellulose acetate), nylon, epoxy, and cellulose acetate propionate.

　　These are durable, light materials but have questionable sustainability. We look for brands that use recycled plastics when possible, such as the Costa Del Mar Pescador above.

　　

　　Sunglasses frames are also an area where style plays a big role; (photo/Mary Murphy) Lens Material For optical clarity, there are no better lenses than mineral glass. They also provide excellent scratch resistance, so theyre a top choice when clear vision is a priority. However, glass lenses have some flaws. They are heavy, expensive, and more prone to shattering than plastic lenses.

　　Next down the scale for optical clarity are lenses made from a material called CR-39. It performs nearly as well as glass but weighs about half as much and is less prone to shattering.

　　Polycarbonate and Trivex are two other materials popular for their impact resistance. While both have less optical clarity than glass or CR-39, polycarbonate and Trivex lenses are much more impact-resistant than other types of plastic and thus popular with cyclists, shooters, and others who put a premium on physical eye protection.

　　

　　The Smith Wander shades plug in a polarized lens that includes Smiths ChromaPop tech, which boosts contrast and color; (photo/Rebecca Parsons) Shape Design Beyond style (and lets face it, style is important), the shape of sunglasses has a big impact on performance. Wider, larger sunglasses will offer more optical and physical eye protection.

　　Wraparound styles will protect eyes from the sides as well as directly in front. But larger sunglasses do not fit every face well. Those with smaller faces will want sunglasses that stay secure when moving the head up and down and side to side.

　　Similarly, those with larger heads and faces should favor larger shapes and designs. Smaller sunglasses will not protect the eyes well here, and too snug a fit can cause headaches for the wearer.

　　

　　One of our testers wearing the Costa Del Mar Waterwoman; (photo/Sean McCoy) Polarized Lenses Many sunglasses can be purchased with either polarized or nonpolarized lenses. For fishing, watersports, or other activities where glare reduction may be beneficial, polarized lenses are a much better choice. By cutting down on glare, polarized lenses allow the wearer to see into the water much better than non-polarized lenses.

　　They also tend to make blue skies pop more vividly. Some prefer nonpolarized lenses for driving, as they can cause strange aberrations with some windows.

　　Price Value Over our many years of testing, we have come to realize that with sunglasses, you really do get what you pay for. Our lead tester has had a single pair of Costa del Mar Pescadors for more than four years now and wears them very regularly. Amazingly, they are still in excellent condition and unscratched. If you can care for gear, even when used hard, quality sunglasses will last much longer than their cheap brethren and are a better investment long term.

　　Budget Since we dont all have $200+ to spend on high-end shades, we covered a few budget-friendly models above. While the optics and longevity of more affordable sunglasses arent quite up to par, the models weve tried from brands like Tifosi and Knockaround are pretty darn good for the price. Budget-conscious shoppers or those who are prone to scratching, losing, or breaking sunglasses will find a lot to love here. And, in many cases, you arent giving up much, if anything, in terms of style.

　　For just $35 to $38, Knockaround sunglasses come in a huge range of frame styles with polarized and non-polarized lenses in a variety of tints and reflective coatings. The optics are decent, they look more expensive than they are, and they will barely make a dent in your bank account balance. Heck, at that price, you can buy several pairs and stash them in the car, backpack, and around the house, so youre always prepared.

　　Tifosi glasses also stand out for their impressive value. At $60, the Tifosi Swank with polarized lenses provides a clear step up in optical clarity and frame quality. The brand also offers a huge range of frame styles and lens options from $25 non-polarized casual shades up to $80 performance models that come with three interchangeable lenses.

　　

　　The author testing the moderately priced and uniquely designed Ombraz Armless sunglasses on a backcountry ski tour; (photo/Sean McCoy) Mid-Tier As we climb above the $100 mark, we see glasses from more established brands along with notable improvements in optics, durability, and models designed to meet more specific performance demands. In general, we find lenses that provide a better visual experience by enhancing color and contrast and reducing glare. Often, the lenses are also more durable, with more resilient protective coatings.

　　In the mid-price tier, an interesting newcomer is Ombraz, with its unique Armless Sunglasses ($160). This brand has done away with frame arms in favor of an adjustable cord that wraps around the head for a secure, stable fit. This design choice dramatically reduces the chances of them slipping off your face or breaking them in your pocket or backpack. On top of that, they come in six different frame styles with your choice between three colors of high-quality Zeiss polarized lenses.

　　Another standout is the Julbo Fury. These sporty shades might not be the best for casual wear, but they became Sean McCoys go-to for activities like running, biking, or backcountry skiing. With loads of coverage and a light-on-the-face feel, these glasses shield the eyes well and have excellent lenses. The Spectron CF lens will set you back $140, or you can upgrade to the self-adjusting REACTIV lens for a $60 bump in price — but youll be prepared for any light condition.

　　Premium While it may sound absurd, weve found that when you shell out $200 or more, you can expect greatly improved durability and optical quality. Our top-rated sunglasses from brands like Costa Del Mar have proven themselves over years of testing, and they still look almost new today. Thats why the brands sunglasses are consistently some of our favorites — they work very well and last a long time.

　　Lenses are the primary reason youre paying more for premium sunglasses. Brands like Costa Del Mar, Oakley, Smith, and others have invested lots of money and time into research and development to create lenses that are crisp and clear and enhance your ability to see the world around you. We are particularly fond of Costas Polarized Glass lenses we tested in the Fantail Pro ($292), which are stellar for use on and around the water but are surprisingly durable, too. On top of that, Costa uses an eco-friendly but tough Bioresin for its frames, which has helped our test pair stand up to over 4 years of regular use.

　　While the performance differences between the premium models and the budget options may not be that important to many users, weve found that they are noticeable and typically worth the added expense, in our opinion. Getting your moneys worth is another story, and your ability to treat your sunglasses with care should be considered when choosing what sunglasses are right for you.

　　Frequently Asked Questions What are polarized sunglasses? Polarized sunglasses have a specialized construction that reduces reflected light, or glare. Because they reduce, and in some cases nearly eliminate, reflected light, they are a top choice for fishing and water sports because they allow you to see into the water better than with nonpolarized sunglasses or the naked eye.

　　Polarized lenses also cut glare from car windows and reduce reflected light from the sky, resulting in blue skies looking darker through them. We generally recommend polarized lenses, although they can cause aberrations when looking through some car windows.

　　Are expensive sunglasses worth it? While we have a soft spot for cheap sunglasses, spending more on expensive sunglasses is worth it if you have the money. You will immediately notice the better lens quality, sturdier frame, and hinges of expensive sunglasses.

　　But where youll really notice the difference is in durability. High-end sunglasses will last much longer than cheap sunglasses as long as you care for them well.

　　How should I clean my sunglasses? Take care not to scratch your investment! Clean sunglasses by first running them under warm water to remove any potentially abrasive material like sand or dust.

　　You can use a little mild liquid dish soap to remove sunscreen or other oils too. Just put a dab on your clean fingers and gently work the soap across the wet lenses and rinse.

　　Once clean, shake off excess water and dry with a soft cotton cloth or, better yet, a microfiber cleaning cloth. The main point here is to not rush the job, and dont scratch the lenses with a rough or dirty cloth.

　　Once clean and mostly dry, polish out any imperfections with a microfiber cloth. And there you go, crystal clear vision restored!

　　What is the best style of sunglasses? Take a good hard look in the mirror. What do you like? Well, rock em! Sunglasses are a great place for self-expression. Have fun!

　　

　　

　　The Best Sun Shirts of 2024 Summertime adventures have two goals in common: Stay cool and avoid sunburn. A good sun shirt like some of our favs from BD, Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear can help you do both.

　　

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