Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (2024)

Reduce glare and protect your eyes with polarized sunglasses this summer.

ByKelsey Chapman

May 1, 2024, 4:03 AM

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (1)

Still trying to figure out what polarized sunglasses are and whether or not you should invest in them?

The short answers are: They're anti-glare glasses and -- if you want to protect your vision -- yes. To help you discover the best pair for you, we took a closer look at what polarized sunglasses offer.

What does "polarized" mean when it comes to sunglasses?

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, (the AAO) polarized lenses improve vision and safety in the sun by reducing light glare and eyestrain. This makes them great for everyday wear and especially helpful when fishing, golfing, boating or skiing -- anywhere where light bounces off a smooth surface at one angle and produces a glare.

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (2)

Because polarization can make objects appear darker, wearing them while using LCD screen such as your car's dashboard controls or your cell phone isn't recommended. If you've ever worn polarized glasses and tried to check your text messages, you'll understand why -- they counteract one another.

Does polarization mean sunglasses are UV-protective?

UVA and UVB protection are entirely separate from polarization. The former is an absolute necessity for sunglasses, while the latter is helpful in many situations.

Make sure to read the fine print when shopping for sunglasses, as many will claim "UVA and UVA protection" but it should be "100% or nothing," as the AAO puts it. They point out some manufacturers cite "UV absorption up to 400nm," which is the equivalent to 100% and therefore safe.

The brands we recommend below all offer 100% UVA and UVB protection.

Which style of polarized sunglasses should I choose?

Personal style will largely dictate what you choose, but always remember the more eye coverage you have, the less harmful rays can hit your eye and cause harm.

Related Stories

Shop deals on golf gear happening right nowApr 29, 4:25 PM
Shop the best portable phone chargers3 hours ago
The best outdoor rug sales to shop right nowApr 30, 4:05 PM

We've selected many top selling shapes, many with a larger or wrap-around fit for maximum eye coverage. We also stuck with established, trusted brands to ensure a high-quality pair of sunglasses that will provide top-notch protection and style at the same time.

By clicking on these shopping links, visitors will leave ABCNews.com. These e-commerce sites are operated under different terms and privacy policies than ABCNews.com. ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Prices may change from the date of publication. SOME PRICES ARE DYNAMIC AND MAY CHANGE FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. Have questions about ordering or a purchase? Click here.

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (6)

Revo

Chelsea

Revo offers only the best in polarized lenses, and you can shop any pair on their site and trust they'll provide the anti-glare properties you want for top-notch eye protection. The Chelsea glasses have an angular, timeless look with an updated edge thanks to the rimless top line and you can choose between basic black, tortoise or green frames.

  • $249

  • Revo

Descend In

Revo's best-selling rimless frame is great for anyone who loves the outdoors, as evidenced by Golf Magazine endorsing them as their favorites for "best golf protection." Another timeless shape, these glasses come in 10 different frame and lens colors and offer a wide view with lightweight feel so you can comfortably wear them all day.

  • $219

  • Revo

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (8)

57% off

GlassesUSA

Smith Bridgetown

This sleek design for women offers style, sophistication and premium anti-glare technology in an attractive yet budget-friendly package. In addition, GlassesUSA offers 100% money-back guarantee within 14 days if you don't like them.

  • $53.40

  • $127

  • GlassesUSA

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (9)

Quay

High Key

A classic aviator always looks cool, and Quay's top-selling, unisex version is a hit with shoppers having racked up more than 20,000 five-star reviews. There's also a handy virtual try-on feature for anyone who wants a better idea of how they would look in these, as well as three polarized color options to best suit your wardrobe.

  • Quay

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (10)

Quay

Soundcheck

Look hip and block harmful rays with these lighter options that still protect from 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays, as do all Quay sunglasses.

  • $95

  • Quay

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (11)

Amazon

Pit Viper The Merika Original Sunglasses Polarized Blue Lens

For a fun, retro take on polarized glasses, try these funky Pit Vipers that have gained popularity amongst trendy types again over the past several year. Their nineties-chic splattered details and sporty logo lettering work whether you're hitting the slopes or hanging with friends, and their signature wrap-around look offers a close fit that gives you maximum protection from the sun's harsh rays.

  • $99.69

  • Amazon

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (12)

Sunglass Hut

Ray-Ban RB4416 New Clubmaster

Uber-stylish and always flattering, Ray-Bans are a no-brainer for anyone who wants high quality sunglasses with an eteranally cool look. These work best for those who'll need them everyday uses like driving or dining al fresco, but you may want to reinforce your sun protection by wearing a hat if you plan to wear these for a day out on the water.

  • $180

  • Sunglass Hut

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (13)

Sunglass Hut

Costa 6S9117 Grand Catalina

This newer shape from Costa has the lasting appeal of the aviator shape but with a side-hugging feature that blocks out even more rays for ultimate eye protection -- especially for fishing thanks to their trademarked Born On The Water construction and color-enhancing technology. They come in six different lens and frame color combinations, including a white option that look like something Elvis would have worn for reeling in trophy fish.

  • $292

  • Sunglass Hut

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (14)

GlassesUSA

Oakley OO9102 Holbrook

Oakley is famous for their high-definition lenses, and this versatile style has strong arms, a close fit and durable, lightweight "O-Matter" for sporty perfection. Choose between an array of lens and frame colors, and enjoy the extra large size that protects the full eye area.

  • $174

  • GlassesUSA

Polarized sunglasses: Shop stylish, anti-glare shades for fishing, golfing, everyday wear and more (2024)

FAQs

Should you wear polarized sunglasses when golfing? ›

All that matters is that you're wearing sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV rays. 2. Non-polarized sunglasses are better. Polarization is great for diffusing light reflected off water, mirrors, etc., but it also can distort vision and negatively impact depth perception.

What type of sunglass lens is best for golf? ›

Polarized lenses are so great at blocking glare that they can actually mute “helpful” glare on the course, such as the shine from the grass that helps you read undulations in the green.

How good are polarized sunglasses for fishing? ›

Your eyes may not be as trained, but you can help yourself by wearing high-quality lenses on the water. Polarized sunglasses are an absolute must-have for fishing and not only make spotting fish easier but also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.

When should you not wear polarized sunglasses? ›

For example, pilots or those who operate heavy machinery shouldn't wear polarized sunglasses. If you're driving at night or in low-light situations. If you want to be aware of glare. For example, snowboarders and skiers want to be able to avoid icy areas.

What color sunglass lens is best for golf? ›

Best Lens Colors for Golf Sunglasses

In general, copper, bronze, brown, red, or rose-colored lenses offer the sharpest color contrast for golf. The greens, fairways, and trees will look sharp, especially under bright sunny skies on a links course without much shade.

What is the best lens color for fishing? ›

Lens Color

For shallow water fishing, brown, amber, or copper based lenses are best. For deep water fishing, gray or gray green lenses are best.

Why would someone not want polarized sunglasses? ›

This can be annoying, or at worst, problematic, if you need to monitor electronics (like a pilot). Reading your phone for long periods of time through polarized lenses may cause eye strain and lead to a headache, so it's a good idea to have a pair of non-polarized lenses if that's something you do often.

Are polarized sunglasses expensive? ›

The frames, materials, and brand you choose will influence the cost of your sunglasses, whether they are polarized or not. Polarized glasses tend to start at $25 and can cost up to $450 or more if you choose a designer label. A regular pair of sunglasses can cost about the same.

What color polarized lens is best for bass fishing? ›

In general, all three agree that Sunrise Silver is their favorite lens color for lowlight situations like dusk, dawn, or cloudy weather; and Green Mirror lens are their favorite for sunny, everyday-bass-fishing.

Why don't pro golfers wear sunglasses? ›

Many golfers don't wear sunglasses because they believe it hinders their golf game, causing difficulties with depth perception and contrast. Having precise vision is considered more important than dealing with bright sunlight during a golfer's swing.

Do you need special sunglasses for golf? ›

A golfer that needs both distance and near corrections should consider special golf lenses.

What sunglasses do PGA pros wear? ›

Oakley is a chosen go-to for pro-golfers like Rickie Fowler, Bubba Watson, and Hideki Matsuyama At the core of Oakley's golf sunglasses is the Prizm lens, which is hailed by many for its ability to absorb the right amount of light and create an ideal contrast between a white golf ball and the greens.

Are Polarised sunglasses good for sport? ›

Polarised sunglasses can help to enhance sports performance by helping athletes to see clearly and react quickly when they need to. They're often used for snowboarding, skiing, watersports, cycling, shooting, archery, fishing and even hiking.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Rob Wisoky

Last Updated:

Views: 6085

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (68 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rob Wisoky

Birthday: 1994-09-30

Address: 5789 Michel Vista, West Domenic, OR 80464-9452

Phone: +97313824072371

Job: Education Orchestrator

Hobby: Lockpicking, Crocheting, Baton twirling, Video gaming, Jogging, Whittling, Model building

Introduction: My name is Rob Wisoky, I am a smiling, helpful, encouraging, zealous, energetic, faithful, fantastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.