Best Golf Sunglasses For Men

Best Golf Sunglasses For Men

By Paul Liberatore

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Golf sunglasses aren't just a fashion statement; they're a game-changer on the course. You need the right pair to enhance your performance and protect your eyes. Let's dive into what makes golf sunglasses special and how to pick the perfect pair for your game.

Why Golf Sunglasses Matter

When you're out on the green, your eyes are working overtime. The sun's glare can mess with your ability to read the terrain and track your ball. That's where golf sunglasses come in. They're not just about blocking UV rays; they're about giving you an edge.


Good golf sunglasses cut down on glare, which helps you see the contours of the green better. They also boost contrast, making it easier to spot your ball against the sky or in the rough. And let's not forget about eye fatigue – a quality pair can keep your eyes fresh through all 18 holes.

Key Features to Look For in Golf Sunglasses

Lens Technology

The lens is where the magic happens. You've got a few key things to consider:


Polarization : Polarized lenses are great for cutting glare, especially off water hazards. But be careful – some golfers find they mess with depth perception on the greens. Try before you buy.


Contrast Enhancement : This is huge for golf. Lenses that boost contrast help you see the subtle changes in the green. Oakley's Prizm lenses are a prime example – they make the greens pop and help you read the terrain like a pro.


UV Protection : This is non-negotiable. Your sunglasses must block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Your eyes will thank you in the long run.

Frame Design

The frame needs to be lightweight and durable. You don't want to feel like you're wearing a brick on your face during your backswing.


Lightweight Materials : Look for frames made from materials like titanium or nylon. The Nike Ace Driver uses titanium, which is super light and tough.


Comfort Features : Pay attention to the nose pads and temple grips. You want something that'll stay put when you're sweating on the 15th hole. The Nike Ace Driver, for example, has silicone nose pads that grip better when you sweat.

Fit and Adjustability

One size doesn't fit all in golf sunglasses. You need a pair that fits your face and your style of play.


Some brands offer different sizes. The Smith Lowdown XL is great for guys with bigger heads. Look for adjustable nose pads or interchangeable lenses if you want to fine-tune your fit.

Top Picks

Costa Del Mar Men’s Whitetip Rectangular Sunglasses

Costa Del Mar's Whitetip Rectangular Sunglasses are a top choice for men who love the outdoors, especially water activities. Named after the whitetip reef shark, these shades embody the creature's curious and fearless nature.


The Whitetip's frame is made from Costa's bio-based nylon material. This eco-friendly choice uses castor oil instead of petroleum, making it both durable and environmentally conscious. The material holds its shape well, even in extreme conditions, so you can count on these glasses to last through your adventures.


Comfort is key with the Whitetip. Costa added hydrolite, a rubberized material, to the temples and nose bridge. This smart design grips better as you sweat, keeping the glasses securely in place during active wear.


To combat fogging, Costa included venting holes on the frame's front. This feature helps air circulate, keeping your vision clear even during intense activities or humid conditions.


The Whitetip falls into the small to medium fit category, making it ideal for those with narrower face shapes. But don't let the size fool you – these glasses offer full coverage and protection.


One of the standout features is Costa's 580 lens technology. These lenses aren't just about blocking UV rays; they enhance colors and contrast, making them perfect for spotting fish or navigating tricky terrain. You can get these lenses in both glass and polycarbonate options, each with its own benefits.


Costa offers the Whitetip in various frame colors and lens options. This variety lets you customize your look and visual experience based on your preferences and typical light conditions.


The Whitetip's design strikes a balance between sporty functionality and everyday style. You can wear these from the boat to the beach bar without missing a beat. They're built to perform in harsh conditions but look good enough for casual wear too.

Costa Del Mar Men’s Whitetip Rectangular Sunglasses

Maui Jim Makoa Polarized Wrap Sunglasses

The Maui Jim Makoa Polarized Wrap Sunglasses are a high-performance eyewear option designed for active lifestyles. These sunglasses combine cutting-edge lens technology with a durable, comfortable frame to deliver exceptional visual clarity and protection.


The Makoa model features Maui Jim's proprietary PolarizedPlus2 lens technology. This advanced system goes beyond standard polarization by enhancing colors and contrast while blocking 100% of harmful UV rays and eliminating glare. The result? You see the world in vivid detail, with true-to-life colors and improved depth perception.


The lenses are made from SuperThin Glass (STG), which is 20-32% thinner and lighter than standard glass. This material offers superior scratch and solvent resistance, ensuring your sunglasses stay clear and functional even with heavy use. You can choose from several lens colors, including Neutral Grey for bright sunlight, HCL Bronze for versatile conditions, and Maui Green for enhanced contrast.


The frame of the Makoa is constructed from lightweight, injected nylon. This material provides durability without adding unnecessary weight, making these sunglasses comfortable for all-day wear. The wrap-around style offers excellent coverage, protecting your eyes from peripheral light and wind.


Comfort features include embedded rubber nose pads and spring hinges. The nose pads prevent slipping, even when you're sweating, while the spring hinges allow for a flexible, secure fit. These details make the Makoa ideal for sports and outdoor activities where stability is crucial.


The Makoa's design is both functional and stylish. Its large wrap style provides ample coverage without looking bulky. The sleek lines and modern aesthetic make these sunglasses suitable for both athletic pursuits and casual wear.


Maui Jim, a brand known for its commitment to quality and innovation in eyewear, stands behind the Makoa with a two-year warranty. This coverage protects against defects in materials and workmanship, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.

Maui Jim Makoa Polarized Wrap Sunglasses

Oakley Polarized Holbrook Square Sunglasses

The Oakley Polarized Holbrook Square Sunglasses are a classic piece of eyewear that blend style with functionality. Oakley, a brand known for its high-performance sports gear, introduced the Holbrook model in 2010. These sunglasses quickly became popular among athletes and casual wearers alike.


The Holbrook design draws inspiration from the screen icons of the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, giving them a timeless appeal. You'll notice their square frame shape, which suits a variety of face shapes and sizes. The frame is made from durable O Matter, Oakley's proprietary nylon-infused plastic that's both lightweight and stress-resistant.


What sets these sunglasses apart is their polarized lenses. Oakley uses a liquid infusion process to bond the polarizing filter at the molecular level. This eliminates the haze and optical distortion found in conventional polarized lenses. The result? Sharper vision and improved clarity.


The lenses also feature Oakley's High Definition Optics (HDO) technology. This patented innovation provides superior optical clarity and razor-sharp vision at every angle. The lenses block 100% of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays, protecting your eyes from harmful solar radiation.


Comfort is key with the Holbrook. The Three-Point Fit system holds the lenses in precise optical alignment while eliminating pressure points. The frame's dimensions (lens width: 57mm, bridge width: 17mm, temple length: 128mm) provide a medium fit that works for most face sizes.


Oakley offers the Holbrook in various lens colors, each optimized for different light conditions. Whether you're hitting the beach, driving, or just running errands, there's a lens tint to suit your needs.


These sunglasses aren't just for show - they meet or exceed the impact resistance standards of the American National Standards Institute. So you can wear them confidently during active pursuits.


The Holbrook's versatility makes it a go-to choice for many. It transitions seamlessly from casual wear to sports activities, making it a practical investment for your eyewear collection.

Oakley Polarized Holbrook Square Sunglasses

Costa Del Mar Men’s Rinconcito Rectangular Sunglasses

Costa Del Mar's Rinconcito Rectangular Sunglasses are a top-tier choice for men who demand high performance from their eyewear. These shades blend style with functionality, making them perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who spend time on the water.


The Rinconcito model features a classic rectangular frame design that suits a wide range of face shapes. The frame is crafted from bio-based resin, which is both durable and environmentally friendly. This material choice reflects Costa's commitment to sustainability without compromising on quality.


What sets these sunglasses apart is their lens technology. Costa's polarized lenses are renowned for their clarity and glare reduction. They use a 580 lens technology that blocks yellow light at 580 nanometers, enhancing colors and contrast. This feature is particularly useful for anglers who need to spot fish beneath the water's surface.


The lenses come in various color options, including blue mirror, which is excellent for offshore fishing and bright, full-sun situations. They offer 100% UV protection and are impact and scratch-resistant, ensuring longevity and eye safety.


Comfort is a key factor in the Rinconcito's design. The sunglasses feature adjustable nose pads and temple tips that provide a secure, custom fit. This is crucial for active wearers who need their sunglasses to stay put during movement.


Costa Del Mar has a strong reputation in the fishing community, but these sunglasses are versatile enough for various outdoor activities. Whether you're boating, driving, or just enjoying a sunny day, the Rinconcito offers superior eye protection and visual clarity.


The price point of the Rinconcito reflects its high-quality construction and advanced lens technology. While they're an investment, many users find the performance justifies the cost, especially given their durability and versatility.

Costa Del Mar Men’s Rinconcito Rectangular Sunglasses

Revo Crawler Sunglasses

The Revo Crawler sunglasses are a popular choice for golfers and outdoor enthusiasts. These shades combine style with high-performance features that make them ideal for the golf course.


The Crawler's frame is made from lightweight yet durable materials. It has a sporty wrap-around design that provides excellent coverage and protection from the sun. The frame comes in several color options like clear crystal, matte tortoise, and matte black/tortoise to suit different tastes.


What really sets the Crawler apart is Revo's advanced lens technology. The lenses use Revo's proprietary Serilium material, which blocks harmful UV rays and manages light to reduce eye strain. The polarized lenses cut glare, which is especially useful on bright, sunny days on the golf course.


Comfort is a key focus of the Crawler's design. The sunglasses feature elastomeric nose pads and temple tips that grip better when you sweat. This keeps them securely in place during your golf swing. The lightweight construction means you can wear them comfortably for hours on the course.


Revo offers the Crawler in both regular and XL sizes to fit different face shapes. The XL version provides a wider fit for those who need it. This versatility has made the Crawler popular among golfers of all types.


While pricier than basic sunglasses, many golfers find the Crawler's performance worth the investment. The combination of sun protection, glare reduction, and comfort can potentially improve your game by reducing eye strain and enhancing visibility on the course.


The Crawler isn't just for golf though. Its stylish look works well for everyday wear too. You can easily transition from the golf course to other outdoor activities or casual settings without changing your eyewear.

Revo Crawler Sunglasses

How to Choose Based on Your Playing Conditions

Your local course conditions should influence your choice of sunglasses. Here's a quick guide:


Sunny Days : Go for darker lenses with good polarization. The Nike Ace Driver or Oakley Radar EV Path with a dark lens are solid choices.


Overcast Days : Opt for lighter tints or photochromic lenses. The Rudy Project Rydon with photochromic lenses is perfect for changing conditions.


Early Morning or Twilight Rounds : Look for lenses that enhance contrast in low light. The Callaway Sungear Kite with its yellow lens is a good option here.


Remember, you're not locked into one pair. Many serious golfers have multiple pairs for different conditions.

Style Meets Functionality: Sunglasses You Can Wear Off the Course

Golf sunglasses have come a long way in the style department. You don't have to look like you're ready for a sci-fi movie anymore.


The Ray-Ban Chromance offers classic Ray-Ban style with lenses that enhance color and contrast. They look great on and off the course.


The Oakley Portal X is another option that transitions well from golf to everyday wear. They've got a more subtle look than some of Oakley's sportier models but still pack all the performance features.

Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Sunglasses

Golf sunglasses are an investment. Here's how to keep them in top shape:


  1. Clean them regularly with a microfiber cloth. Avoid using your shirt or paper towels, which can scratch the lenses.

  2. Use a lens cleaning solution designed for coated lenses. Avoid household cleaners, which can damage the lens coatings.

  3. Store your sunglasses in a hard case when you're not using them. This protects them from scratches and accidental crushing.

  4. Be careful when you take them on and off. Use both hands to avoid twisting the frame.

  5. If your sunglasses have interchangeable lenses, be gentle when swapping them out. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the frame or lenses.

  6. Avoid leaving your sunglasses in hot cars. Extreme heat can warp frames and damage lens coatings.

  7. If your sunglasses get wet, dry them with a soft cloth. Don't use heat (like a hair dryer) to dry them, as this can damage the lenses.

  8. Check the screws on your sunglasses periodically and tighten them if needed. Most optical shops can do this for you if you're not comfortable doing it yourself.



Conclusion

Choosing the right golf sunglasses can make a real difference in your game. They protect your eyes, enhance your vision, and can even boost your confidence on the course.


Remember, the best sunglasses for you depend on your specific needs. Consider your playing conditions, your style preferences, and your budget. Don't be afraid to try on several pairs before making a decision.


Investing in a quality pair of golf sunglasses is investing in your game. They'll help you see the course better, protect your eyes, and might even shave a few strokes off your score. So take your time, do your research, and find the pair that works best for you. Your eyes (and your handicap) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are polarized lenses good for golf?

Polarized lenses aren't typically recommended for golf. While they reduce glare, they can also flatten your perception of the course, making it harder to read greens and judge distances. Non-polarized lenses with contrast-enhancing tints are usually better for golf.

What color lenses are best for golf?

Brown, amber, or rose-tinted lenses are often considered best for golf. These colors enhance contrast, making it easier to see the contours of the green and track your ball against the sky. Some brands, like Oakley, offer golf-specific tints like their PRIZM Golf lenses.

Can I wear my regular sunglasses for golf?

While you can wear regular sunglasses, they're not ideal for golf. Golf-specific sunglasses are designed to enhance contrast, reduce glare without distorting depth perception, and stay in place during your swing. They also often have lighter, more durable frames suitable for active wear.

How much should I spend on golf sunglasses?

Golf sunglasses range from about $50 to over $200. While you can find decent options at lower price points, investing in a higher-quality pair around $100-$150 often provides better optics, durability, and comfort. Premium brands like Oakley or Maui Jim can cost more but offer top-tier performance.

Can I get prescription golf sunglasses?

Yes, many brands offer prescription golf sunglasses. Some popular options include the Rudy Project Rydon and Oakley Flak 2.0 XL. When getting prescription golf sunglasses, it's important to work with an optician who understands the specific visual needs of golfers.

Paul Liberatore

Paul Liberatore

As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry.