Table of Contents
Introduction
When the sun is bright on the golf course, the right pair of sunglasses is essential equipment. Not all eyewear is ideal for golfing, however. Golf sunglasses need to provide proper protection from the sun while also giving golfers an unobstructed view of the ball, the green, and the surrounding course. With so many options on the market today in a range of prices, finding sunglasses tailored to the needs of golfers can be challenging.
This article provides an in-depth look at how to choose the best golf sunglasses based on lens color, polarization, UV protection, frame material, and other factors. Whether you’re a golfer looking to improve your game with the right eyewear or a retailer helping customers find the perfect sunglasses, this guide covers everything you need to know to make an informed choice. With the right knowledge and a few simple considerations, you’ll be able to identify high-quality, high-performance sunglasses suited to any golfer’s needs and budget.
How Sunglasses Can Improve Your Golf Game
Sunglasses are an essential piece of equipment for any serious golfer. Not only do they protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays, but the right pair can actually enhance your performance on the course.
Sunglasses with specialized lens tints, like brown, amber, or rose, can improve depth perception and reduce glare, providing a sharper image of the ball, fairway, and greens. This makes it easier to accurately judge distances and read the course terrain.
Lenses that enhance color contrast, especially between the ball and background, help players better focus on the ball during swings and putts. This can improve precision and hand-eye coordination.
Impact-resistant lenses provide protection from errant balls and clubs. Polycarbonate lenses are highly impact-resistant while remaining light and comfortable.
Ventilated frames help prevent fogging in hot, humid weather. Rubber nose pads and temple tips provide a secure, non-slip fit, even during active play.
Polarized lenses eliminate reflected glare from flat surfaces like water, sand, and pavement. This provides a clearer, high-definition view of the course and ball. Polarized lenses are ideal for golfers in sunny, open courses near water.
By considering lens tint, impact-resistance, polarization, color contrast, anti-fogging, and fit, golfers can find sunglasses perfectly suited to their needs. The right sunglasses become another tool to help you achieve your best performance and get the most enjoyment out of every round. Protecting your vision and improving your game—that’s a win-win.
Features to Consider When Buying Golf Sunglasses
When purchasing golf sunglasses, there are several key features to consider for functionality, comfort, and eye protection.
- Grip. Non-slip grip or nose pads are essential to prevent the sunglasses from slipping down or falling off during physical activity or perspiration. Rubber grips that wrap around the ear or silicone nose pads tend to provide the best grip for golf sunglasses.
- Lightweight frames. For long rounds of golf, lightweight frames made of materials like polycarbonate or nylon provide maximum comfort. The frames should not cause discomfort, pressure points, or headaches.
- Proper lens coverage. Look for sunglasses that provide coverage for your whole eye area, including the sides of your eyes. This protects from UV radiation and debris. Wrap-around frames or frames with side shields help block light from all directions.
- Polarized lenses. Polarized lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, sand, or grass. They enhance contrast and improve depth perception which provides a visual advantage for golfers.
- UV protection. Be sure to choose sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. Ultraviolet radiation exposure over long periods of time can cause damage to the eyes.
- Lens color. For golf, brown, amber or rose tinted lenses are good options as they highlight contours and help with depth perception. Darker lenses like gray provide less color distortion in low light conditions.
By considering these essential features, golfers can choose high-performance sunglasses optimized for visual acuity, eye protection and lasting comfort during long days on the green. With the right pair of golf sunglasses, players gain an advantage to improve their game.
Best Lens Options for Golf Sunglasses
The lens material and tint are two of the most important factors to consider when choosing golf sunglasses. Selecting the proper lens options can help improve vision and performance out on the course.
Polycarbonate Lenses
Polycarbonate is an excellent lens material for golf sunglasses. It is impact-resistant yet lightweight, providing durable protection. Polycarbonate lenses also block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, protecting the eyes from sun damage during long days out in the sun.
Impact-resistant and shatterproof, protecting eyes from errant golf balls and club strikes
Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
Blocks 100% of UVA and UVB rays
Lens Tints
Certain lens tints can enhance the contrast between the golf ball, fairway, and surrounding areas. The most popular options for golf include:
Brown or amber tints: Enhance contrast and depth perception. Help the ball stand out against green grass.
Copper or cinnamon tints: Heighten contrast in low-light or overcast conditions. Useful for early morning or late evening play.
Rose copper tints: Provide a subtle rose hue while maintaining the benefits of copper lenses. Stylish yet high-performance.
Bronze or smoke tints: Darker tints better suited for very bright conditions. May reduce glare on water hazards or highly reflective surfaces.
Tints in the brown, amber, and copper color ranges are considered the best for golfing.
Darker gray or green tints are not recommended as they can distort colors and reduce contrast.
For optimal vision and performance, golfers should select sunglasses with impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses in brown- or copper-hued tints. The right lens material and tint can help players accurately gage distances, improve depth perception, reduce glare, and track the ball in flight and on the ground. With the proper eyewear, golfers can enjoy peak performance and protection from the sun.
Best Frame Styles for Golf Sunglasses
When selecting sunglasses for golf, the frame style is an important consideration. The frame shape and size can affect comfort, protection, and performance. For the optimal golfing experience, certain frame styles tend to work better than others.
Wrap-Around Frames
Wrap-around frame styles offer the most coverage and protection. The curved shape shields the eyes from peripheral light and glare. Popular styles like the Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Prizm Daily Golf Sunglasses provide full side coverage while retaining a sporty look suitable for the golf course. For maximum protection from sun exposure, wrap-around frames are an excellent choice.
Shield Frames
Shield frames also offer substantial coverage, with a shape that covers the entire eye area. Shield frames like the Under Armor Big Shot Sunglasses are durable and help block light, wind, and debris. The shield shape works well for golf, though some find the style too bulky or limiting peripheral vision. For comprehensive protection and an aggressive sporty look, shield frames can be a good option.
Aviator Frames
Aviator-style frames are a classic shape suitable for many sports, including golf. Styles like the Callaway Izzo Golf Sungear Sunglasses provide medium coverage while retaining a traditional shape. Aviator frames may not offer as much coverage as wrap-around or shield styles, but many golfers find them comfortable and the style complements their attire. For a balance of coverage, style, and versatility, aviator frames are a recommended choice for the 2023 golfing season.
In summary, when selecting sunglasses for golf, consider the level of coverage and protection needed from the specific lens and frame style. Frames that offer the most coverage, like wrap-around and shield styles, tend to provide the best protection from sun exposure and glare during extended time outdoors on the golf course. Combined with specialized golf lenses, the right frame style can help optimize vision, comfort, and performance.
Top Polarized Lens Brands for Golf Sunglasses
When choosing golf sunglasses, polarized lenses are a must for reducing sun glare and enhancing vision on the course. Several top brands offer polarized lens options ideal for golfers.
Oakley
Oakley is a leader in performance sunglasses and offers polarized lenses with their Prizm technology, specifically designed for golf. Prizm lenses increase contrast and enhance visibility of subtle contours and breaks on the green. Oakley models like the Flak 2.0 XL and Radar EV Path provide full UV protection and polarized Prizm lenses ideal for golf.
Maui Jim
Maui Jim is known for high-quality polarized lenses that eliminate glare while amplifying colors on the course. Their polarized lens options like Maui Rose and Maui HT provide vibrant color enhancement and clarity. Maui Jim sunglasses such as the Cliff House and Punchbowl models are optimized for golf with their polarized lens technology.
Costa Del Mar
Costa Del Mar produces polarized sunglasses designed for life on and around the water. Their polarized lens options including Copper Mirror 580 Glass, Blue Mirror 580G, and Green Mirror 580G reduce reflected light for enhanced vision on the golf course. Costa models like the Fantail, Jose, and Rincon provide full UV protection, polarized lens technology, and sporty wraparound designs ideal for golf.
Callaway
Callaway is a leader in golf equipment and apparel. Their Kite series of polarized sunglasses offers strong value and performance for golfers. The Callaway Kite Polarized model provides polarized lenses that eliminate glare, full UV protection, and a lightweight frame, all for under $100. For golfers on a budget, the Callaway Kite Polarized is an excellent option.
In summary, Oakley, Maui Jim, Costa Del Mar, and Callaway each offer polarized lens sunglasses particularly well-suited for golf. Their specialized polarized lens technologies reduce sun glare, enhance color and clarity, and provide UV protection for optimal vision and comfort on the course. For golfers seeking high performance sunglasses, polarized lenses are a must.
Additional Features to Look For
Polarized Lenses
Polarized sunglasses lenses are a game-changer when it comes to enhancing visual clarity and reducing glare. These lenses feature a special filter that blocks horizontally polarized light, which is typically reflected off surfaces like water, snow, or shiny objects. By doing so, polarized lenses effectively minimize glare, allowing for a more comfortable and enjoyable visual experience. Whether you’re on the golf course, driving, or participating in water sports, polarized sunglasses lenses provide significant benefits. They not only improve visual acuity by reducing eye strain but also enhance color perception and contrast, making objects appear sharper and more vibrant. With their ability to cut through distracting glare, polarized sunglasses lenses offer both functional and aesthetic advantages, making them a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking optimal visual performance.
Mirror Coatings
Mirror coatings on golf sunglass lenses can block additional light and improve contrast. The mirror coating acts as a one-way mirror, allowing light to pass through the lens to the eyes but reflecting light on the exterior. This further reduces glare and helps define contours. Popular mirror coatings for golf sunglasses include copper, blue, silver, and red. The choice of mirror coating is largely based on personal preference and style.
Interchangeable Lens Options
Some golf sunglasses offer interchangeable lens options with lenses suited for various light conditions. This allows golfers to adapt their sunglasses to changing light and maximize visual acuity. Interchangeable lenses may include polarized lenses for sun, amber or brown lenses for low light, clear lenses for overcast conditions, and yellow lenses for fog or haze. The ability to switch lenses based on the current light provides flexibility and high-definition vision for the duration of the game.
Additional features to consider for golf sunglasses include:
Impact-resistant lenses and frames for durability
Non-slip nose pads and temples for a secure, comfortable fit
Lenses with 100% UV protection to shield eyes from the sun
Frames with wrap-around style to block light from the sides
Vents in the frames to prevent fogging in warm, humid weather
Lightweight yet durable frames for comfort during extended wear
With the variety of lens options and additional features available, golfers can find sunglasses tailored to their specific needs and style of play. The right sunglasses can provide visual advantages and enhanced enjoyment of the game.
Best Golf Sunglasses for Men
Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Prizm Daily Golf Sunglasses
The Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Prizm Daily Golf Sunglasses are considered the premier choice for most golfers. They feature:
Prizm lens technology that enhances color and contrast to improve performance. The lens is specifically designed for golf to highlight the ball and course terrain.
The lens has 100% UV protection and is polarized to reduce glare.
The frame is made of O Matter material, Oakley’s most durable yet lightweight material. This provides all-day comfort and protection.
Unobtainium earsocks and nosepads increase grip as sweat builds up.
Multiple lens and frame options are available to suit personal style and needs.
Callaway Kite Polarized Sunglasses
For golfers seeking an affordable, high-quality pair of sunglasses, the Callaway Kite Polarized Sunglasses are an excellent option. They provide:
Polarized lenses that eliminate reflected glare and enhance color. The lenses improve visual clarity and reduce eye strain.
Durable yet lightweight Grilamid TR90 frames that are flexible and impact-resistant.
Megol nose pads and temple tips for a secure, comfortable fit.
100% UV protection.
A sporty, wrap-around design ideal for golf and other athletic activities.
Available in multiple frame colors with gray or copper lens tints.
Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Rectangular Sunglasses
The Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Rectangular Sunglasses are a stylish choice well-suited for golf. They feature:
Standard Prizm lenses that fine-tune color and contrast for improved vision on the golf course.
Polarized lens options that eliminate reflected glare while enhancing color and contrast.
O Matter frame material that is stress-resistant and durable yet still lightweight.
Unobtainium nosepads and earsocks for increased grip.
Multiple lens tints and frame colors/styles for both function and fashion.
Optional prescription lens compatibility for those requiring vision correction.
100% UV protection.
In summary, there are many excellent sunglasses options for golfers. For performance, the Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Prizm Daily Golf Sunglasses are unparalleled. For value, the Callaway Kite Polarized Sunglasses are a great choice. And for style, the Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Rectangular Sunglasses deliver. With enhanced vision, UV protection, glare reduction, and durable yet comfortable designs, golfers cannot go wrong with any of these recommended sunglasses.
Best Golf Sunglasses for Women
Callaway Sungear Women's Harrier Golf Sunglasses
The Callaway Sungear Women’s Harrier Golf Sunglasses are designed specifically for female golfers. They feature polarized lenses that eliminate glare from the sun and reflective surfaces like water, snow or pavement. The polarized lenses improve contrast and visual clarity, allowing the wearer to see obstacles and details more easily. The polycarbonate lenses are also impact-resistant and provide 100% UV protection.
Revo Sunglasses Descend N: Polarized Lens
For premium performance, the Revo Sunglasses Descend N: Polarized Lens sunglasses are an excellent choice for women golfers. Revo’s proprietary polarized lens technology enhances color and clarity. The lightweight yet durable nylon frame provides comfort and flexibility. Revo’s lenses block 100% of UVA/UVB and blue light up to 400nm, protecting eyes from sun damage and fatigue. An anti-reflective coating reduces glare, while the waterproof and oleophobic coating protects the lenses from water, oil and dirt.
Other Top Options for Women Golfers
Tifosi Seek FC: Stylish, lightweight glasses with scratch-resistant polarized lenses. Multiple lens and frame color options.
Oakley Radar EV Path: Oakley is a leader in sport performance eyewear. The Radar EV Path model has polarized lenses, UV protection and is designed to fit women’s face shapes. Impact-resistant lenses.
Under Armor Igniter Polarized Multiflection Sunglasses: Under Armor’s multiflection lenses enhance color and reduce glare. Rubber nose pad and temple provide a secure, non-slip fit. Polarized, 100% UV protective lenses.
In summary, there are many high-quality sunglass options for women golfers that provide specialized lens technology to improve vision and eye protection on the course. Polarized, mirrored or multiflection lenses that block 100% of UV rays are ideal for golfing. A comfortable, non-slip frame and impact-resistant lenses are also recommended for performance and safety. With the variety of brands, styles and price points now available, women golfers can choose sunglasses tailored to their needs and personal style.
FAQs About Golf Sunglasses
What lens color is best for golf sunglasses?
For golf sunglasses, lens color is an important consideration. Golfers typically prefer lenses that provide high contrast and enhanced depth perception. Brown-colored lenses are a popular choice as they increase contrast on green grass and provide natural color vision. Yellow or gold lenses are also good for golf as they brighten shadows and improve contrast. Gray lenses are more neutral but still reduce glare. Darker lens colors like black are not ideal for golf as they reduce too much light and color.
Do golf sunglasses need UV protection?
UV protection is essential for any sunglasses, especially for golfers who spend long hours outside in the sun. Golf sunglasses should block 100% of UVB and UVA rays to prevent long term damage to the eyes. UV radiation exposure increases the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration over time. Wrap-around lens styles offer the most comprehensive UV protection for the eyes.
What lens features enhance vision for golfing?
Several lens features can improve vision and performance for golfers. Polarized lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water or snow and provide clearer vision. Mirror coatings deflect additional light and conceal the eyes for a competitive advantage. Photochromic lenses automatically darken in sunlight and lighten in low light conditions so golfers can keep the same sunglasses on from bright sun to shade. Anti-reflective lens coatings prevent reflections from bouncing off the lens back into the eyes.
What other considerations are there for golf sunglasses?
Other factors to consider for golf sunglasses include:
•Lens size – Larger lenses provide more coverage and protection. Wrap-around styles are best.
•Frame material – Lightweight, durable materials that wick away moisture are ideal for long days on the course.
•Comfort and fit – Temple pads, nose pads and adjustable frames help keep sunglasses securely and comfortably in place during physical activity.
•Interchangeable lenses – Some sunglasses allow you to switch between different lens colors for varying light conditions.
•Price – There are good options at many price points. More advanced lens technology and frame materials typically cost more.
•Style – While function is most important, you want
Conclusion
In summary, choosing the right golf sunglasses requires careful consideration of lens technology, frame design, and UV protection based on an individual’s needs and playing conditions. With many options available at a range of price points, golfers can find a pair well-suited to enhancing their game while also protecting their vision for years to come. The latest advancements in polarized, mirror and photochromic lenses provide versatility for any light, while sport-specific frames offer maximum coverage and non-slip grips. By understanding the factors that determine high performance and quality, golfers can make an informed choice in sunglasses and step out onto the course ready to focus on their swing, not the sun.
