Best hiking sunglasses in 2024
Medically reviewed by Jakub Odcházel, DiS., Chief Optician, on 30 Mar 2023. Written by Lentiamo
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Lifelong backpackers and casual hikers alike need quality eye protection for long days in the great outdoors. Whether it's walking through lush forests or trekking on seaside trails, reliable hiking sunglasses are an important accessory for your journey. Sunglasses can enhance your vision and help you see every step of the trail in better detail.
The experts at Lentiamo have gathered a list of the eight best hiking sunglasses for your next adventure. Read about the pros and cons of each selection, discover must-have features and find answers to some frequently asked questions below!
How we chose the best sunglasses for hiking
- Research – From frame designs, lens features and more, we researched the best of the best to determine the advantages and disadvantages of each. We looked at popular brands and models to determine what elements can make your hike better.
- Customer reviews – We looked into our best-selling designs to see what brands and models users actually wear and use.
- Optometrist approved – Lentiamo optometrists offered their expert opinions on the best lenses, materials and designs for sport sunglasses.
Best sunglasses for hiking
8. Arnette Fastball
Arnette Fastball sunglasses provide superior clarity and visual enhancement for hiking. The blue mirrored lenses minimise reflections and increase contrast. They are a fantastic choice for hikes near large bodies of water like oceans or glistening lakes.
Comfortable and lightweight, these sunnies are sure to please.
Pros
- Smooth plastic frames for greater comfort
- Durable sunglasses case and cleaning cloth included
- Gentle wraparound frame for comfortable and protective fit
Cons
- Mirrored lenses are more prone to scratches
7. Esprit ET19673 538 57
For leisurely hikes through the woods, a basic pair of hiking sunglasses can do wonders. These Esprit sunglasses offer quality UV protection and visual performance at a great price.
The brown lenses are incredibly versatile for high sun or overcast conditions. They improve contrast and filter reflections for sharper vision. If you'd like to protect your eyes and look great doing it, try these Esprit shades on for size.
Pros
- High-quality and lightweight plastic frames
- Stylish design for both leisure and hiking
- Affordable price point
Cons
- No adjustable features
6. Bollé Graphite
With their stylish design and high-performance features, Bollé Graphite sunglasses will keep your eyes protected and comfortable throughout your entire expedition.
The photochromic lenses adapt to changing lighting conditions, making them perfect for all-day wear. You'll appreciate the handy side shields that offer added protection from sun and debris. These unique trekking sunglasses can accompany you from early morning until late evening.
Pros
- Thermogrip frames for extra grip when in contact with sweat and water
- Phantom photochromic lenses for phenomenal optical clarity in any light
- Large lenses for extra shielding from the sun
Cons
- Unique athletic design
Did you know? Phantom is Bollé's first photochromic technology. It is engineered to provide the best optical clarity through changing weather and lighting conditions.
5. Oakley Cables
These unassuming Oakley sunglasses boast an impressive combination of lens features and frame technologies. Prizm lenses enhance vision in varying environments and offer optimal colour perception. Additionally, the minimalist black frames are made from ultra-lightweight O Matter material for extra comfort.
Oakley Cables are the best outdoor sunglasses for your next day hike or overnight backpacking excursion.
Pros
- HDO (High Definition Optics) lenses eliminate image magnification and distortion
- Simple and modern design for hiking or casual wear
- Fully-rimmed, wraparound design for protection and comfort
Cons
- Higher cost
4. Oakley Latch Beta
For those looking for style and functionality, Oakley Latch Beta are an attractive option. The double-bridge frames are made from Oakley’s incredibly lightweight O Matter material.
Latch Beta ensure high glare reduction and precise light transmission thanks to Iridium lens coatings. Let these shades illuminate your surroundings and highlight your style.
Pros
- Three-point fit system for better comfort and a non-slip fit
- HDO Optics ensure crystal clear vision and impact resistance
- Prizm technology for enhanced contrast, colours and details
Cons
- High price tag
Did You Know? Oakley developed state-of-the-art Prizm technology specifically for maximum visual acuity. The technology enhances colour contrast and clarity in different light and weather conditions, resulting in improved vision and depth perception.
3. Arnette Slickster
If you're in need of a straightforward pair of sunglasses that gets the job done, Arnette Slickster are for you. The grey lenses naturally render colours and are ideal for darkening intense sunlight.
The high-quality plastic lenses are crack-resistant to withstand the occasional drop or ding. With a modern wayfarer design, these shades can accompany you from the backcountry to the city centre and back again.
Pros
- Versatile style for any occasion
- More affordable than other hiking sunglasses on the market
- 100% UVA and UVB protection
Cons
- The narrow size reduces protection around the eyes
2. Evil Eye Vizor
Evil Eye Vizor are genuine outdoor sunglasses for backpacking on any challenging terrain. The versatile brown lenses offer great colour contrast in a variety of lighting conditions such bright daylight or overcast skies.
A double-lock nose bridge ensures a snug and comfortable fit. For additional security, the unique temple tip structure prevents slipping. Evil Eye specialises in quality athletic gear and their sunglasses are sure to perform well on your hikes for years to come.
Pros
- Three-stage frame adjustment for a custom fit
- Gentle wraparound design better protects from sun, wind and debris
- Durable polycarbonate lenses with crystal clear optics
Cons
- Athletic design might not be for everyone
1. Oakley Flak 2.0 XL
Oakley Flak 2.0 XL are our top pick for hiking sunglasses! The lightweight thermoplastic construction is durable and can withstand long days in the sun, rain or snow. Oakley’s Unobtainium rubber nose pads prevent slippage even when wet. Thanks to the clever half-rim frames, you'll have unobstructed views to your feet and the trail below.
While the price tag is higher, there are replacement lenses available for the Flak 2.0 model just in case. Let Oakley guide you to uncharted territories in style.
Pros
- Durable and high-quality Plutonite lenses for great protection from the sun
- Prizm lenses for better visual acuity to see the details of the terrain
- HDO (High Definition Optics) lenses eliminate image magnification and colour distortion
Cons
- Mirrored lenses can significantly reduce light transmission
What should a good pair of hiking sunglasses offer?
Polarised lenses
Polarised sunglasses can increase contrast and boost colours on your hike, making scenic nature views richer and more immersive. Consider both polarised or mirrored sunglasses that reduce glare and intense sunlight to protect your eyes and see clearly.
Look for sunglasses lens materials that also offer great optical quality. Lightweight materials like polycarbonate combine durability and sharp imaging properties while being more affordable than other options such as glass.
Finally, another factor to consider is sunglasses lens colours.
- Brown lenses – Brown or amber lenses enhance contrast and improve depth perception which is ideal for hiking varied terrain. Brown polarised lenses are popular for hikers because of their ability to make details stand out.
- Grey lenses – Grey lenses are versatile and work well in a variety of conditions such as shade or bright sun. They reduce glare and provide true colour perception.
- Green lenses – Green lenses improve vision in shaded and sunny areas. Green is helpful when backpacking or hiking in wooded areas with scattered light.
- Red lenses – Red, rose or pink lenses offer terrific colour contrast for green forests.
Lightweight build
Lightweight sunglasses are essential for comfort on the trail. Particularly during longer hikes, heavier shades can weigh down on your nose and ears and cause discomfort. Materials such as polycarbonate frames and lenses are extremely lightweight as well as durable.
Remember that carrying extra weight can affect your overall hiking experience. While you may carefully weigh food, tents and other essentials, don't forget to consider the weight of your accessories too!
Pro Tip: Lentiamo optometrist Eliška reminds us that sport sunglasses should be lightweight and comfortable. Don't forget they must also be made from durable materials to withstand bad weather conditions, strong sunlight, sweat, debris, and more.
UV protection
Whether you're trekking high in the mountains or hiking through shadowy forests, UV protection is essential. Unfiltered exposure to ultraviolet radiation puts our eyes at risk of damage and disease such as increased risk of cataracts.
Not only are quality lenses important, the shape of the frame can impact the amount of light that reaches the eyes. Look for wraparound frames or large lenses for added coverage at the top and sides of your eyes.
High UV protection is also extremely important in winter months. Snow reflects 80% of UV rays from the sun and can cause a condition known as snow blindness (photokeratitis). This is when glare can inflame, or even damange, the cornea, causing pain, blurry vision and other unpleasant symptoms.
Fit
The right size sunglasses should be comfortable and stay in place. The best hiking sunglasses shouldn't rub or rattle around. Not only does this distract from the beauty of your surroundings, it can quickly cause irritation and discomfort. Hiking involves frequent glances down to your feet. Frames that won't slide down the bridge of your nose are necessary. Consider adjustable features like flexible nose pads or temple tips.
You don't have to choose between functionality or aesthetics when it comes to hiking sunglasses. Find frames that fit your face shape and you'll be comfortable and look good too.
Durability
Hiking sunglasses must be durable to withstand anything nature throws at them. Sometimes we can't avoid every tree branch and, for better or worse, our lenses take the brunt of the impact. Lenses and frames should be made from lightweight and durable materials such as polycarbonate or other high-quality plastics.
Still not sure? Use our sunglasses virtual try on feature to see how your favourite pair looks.
Frequently asked questions
Should I hike with sunglasses?
Wearing sunglasses is essential when hiking. They protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, reduce glare and improve visibility so you can see exactly what you need to see. The best sunglasses can also prevent eye strain and fatigue, which can be especially important on longer hikes. Remember that UV radiation changes based on your altitude. As altitude increases, so does UV exposure. Sunglasses act as a crucial protective filter between the sun’s damaging rays and your eyes.
What sunglasses do mountaineers wear?
Mountaineers typically wear glacier glasses or mountaineering sunglasses, which are specifically designed to provide high protection from the harsh glare of high-altitude sun, snow and ice. In general, mountaineering sunglasses feature a wraparound or goggle style for maximum coverage. They are often polarised to minimise glare and reflections and feature side shields to block peripheral light.
What are the disadvantages of polarised sunglasses?
While polarised sunglasses effectively reduce glare and boost contrast, they can impact depth perception or distort images. This can be a disadvantage on uneven trails that have a lot of rocks, roots or trip hazards. It's important to note that not everyone will notice a change when using polarised lenses. Many find them to be advantageous on the trail. Additionally, if you use GPS or satellite phones with digital displays, polarised sunglasses can distort the image on LCD screens.
Are Ray Bans good for hiking?
Plenty of hikers enjoy Ray-Ban sunglasses for the optical clarity and durability they offer. Many models are lightweight and have added features like polarised lenses. Ray-Ban has many stylish and reliable options. Be sure to always pick ones with ample coverage for long days in the sun.
Read more
Interested in other sports? Check out more sunglasses for cycling and golf today.
