10 Best Polarized Sunglasses for Men That Offer Ultimate Protection

Our Top Picks:

1. Best Overall: Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses
2. Best Value: Drifter Polarized Retro Square Sunglasses
3. Most Stylish: Raen Optics Remmy Polarized Sunglasses
4. Prescription: Warby Parker Durand Sunglasses
5. Driving: Oakley Holbrook Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses offer strong protection and increased visibility for your eyes.

But here’s the deal:

All polarized sunglasses are not the same.

With so many different brands, shapes, materials, and of course, price points, it can be difficult to sort through all the options in order to find the perfect pair of polarized sunglasses to meet your needs.

To help in your research, not only will we review the best polarized sunglasses for men in 2020, but we will also share with you a few important considerations to keep in mind during your search.

Let’s begin.

How to Buy Polarized Sunglasses

As you are in search of the perfect pair of polarized sunglasses, here are a few things you will want to keep in mind:

1. Why are you buying polarized sunglasses?

If you’re on the hunt for polarized sunglasses, odds are you’ve already got a good idea of what you’ll be using them for.

Sun protection, appearance, materials, and other added features are all things that can help you refine your search for the perfect polarized sunglasses. Here are the four most common uses, and a few tips to keep in mind when selecting a pair:

• Casual/Fashion: From daily city wear to driving, casual or fashion focused polarized sunglasses focus less on specific features and are more about the the overall look and style. Classic designs such as Wayfarers, Clubmasters, and Aviators make perfect sense here. Casual polarized sunglasses provide glare reduction from everyday options while also protecting your eyes.
• Driving: Polarized sunglasses are a must-have if you do a lot of driving. Whether you drive a big rig or a small coupe, driving glasses are designed to reduce glare and allow you to have a crystal clear view of the road no matter what the conditions are like outside. When you’re choosing a pair of sunglasses for driving, though, it’s important to remember that some polarized lenses clash with some tempered glass windshields on cars; this can cause your vision to be obscured, so it’s good to make sure that won’t be a problem before you decide on a final purpose. Lens tint colors like brown, amber, and copper are perfect for reducing glare and increasing contrast so you can see the road exceptionally well even on the brightest of days.
• Beach: Glare from the sun can be a nuisance anywhere, but it’s particularly prevalent on the beach. The sun shining off the ocean can cause a harsh glare and is also very dangerous for your eyes – the UVA and UVB rays from the sun can cause some serious damage if your sunglasses don’t protect your eyes from the sun. When choosing polarized sunglasses for the beach, 100% UPF is an absolute must. Full lens coverage of your eyes is ideal, but remember that larger lenses can also create the raccoon eyes look if you tan easily. Water and rust-resistant materials are crucial when it comes to the beach as well – the saltwater can be damaging to your shades if they’re not constructed from the right materials.
• Sports: Polarized sunglasses can be great for sports, where contrast and glare reduction are very important so you can see with enough clarity to play your best. Sun protection is also important, particularly for eye health, so that’s something to keep an eye on when you’re checking out your options for some sports shades. A good fit is also a factor to keep an eye on, as you don’t want your frames falling off if you’re participating in an active sport like baseball or tennis. Frames that wrap around your face will offer ideal protection and fit, and durable materials is a must for a good pair of sports sunglasses. Flip frames are another feature that you’ll commonly find with sports polarized sunglasses – they’re popular especially with baseball players.

2. Find the right pair of polarized sunglasses to complement your face shape

Just like with normal sunglasses, polarized sunglasses come in all different shapes and sizes. Rectangle, square, round, oval, and aviators or pilot-style sunglasses are just a few of the many options you’ll have to choose from. Be aware of what sunglass style suits your face shape, as that will be a big factor that determines how good you look.

A good rule of thumb is to look for sunglasses that contrast with your face shape – for example, if you have a round face, you don’t want round frames.

3. Know how to select the right fit for your sunglasses

A good fit is critical for comfort and function; choose sunglasses that don’t fit you right, and you’ll have plenty of problems to deal with. If they’re too loose, they can easily slip off, but sunglasses that are too tight can cause headaches and feel uncomfortable.

Fortunately, sizing for sunglasses is normally very straightforward. Some styles have a few different lens sizes to choose from, and brands will often offer different bridge sizes as well. If you’re uncertain on size, check a pair of glasses you currently own, as the size will be printed on the inside of the temple. If not, go to a store and try some on to get a good feel for your size. There are also some great online guides, such as this one, where you can use a credit card to measure the distance between your retina and bridge to get an idea of what size frame suits your face best.

4. Popular brands of polarized sunglasses

As we researched countless brands, we found that the following were among the most popular and well received among men:

• Callaway
• Costa
• Electric
• Kaenon
• Maui Jim
• Nike
• Oakely
• Raen Optics
• Ray-Ban
• Revo
• SunCloud
• Sunwise
• Tifosi Optics
• Warby Parker
• Zeal

Now, it is worth noting that the list above excludes designer brands like Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Off-White, and other premium high end brands. While their sunglasses are decent, chances are that most folks aren’t buying those brands for eye protection, but rather as a status symbol.

5. What color frame and lenses should you go with?

When it comes to color, you’ll need to think about two things: the color of the sunglasses frame, and the color of the tint. Here’s a few pointers you will want to keep in mind:

Frame: Choose whatever frame color you like, but make sure it complements your face or the clothes you’re expecting to wear the sunglasses with. If you generally wear professional clothes or are wearing sunglasses in a formal setting, bright and extravagant frames might not be the best option.

The most common frame colors are black, brown, silver, and gold, which are all classic and go well with just about any outfit.

Tint: Dark tint colors, think brown, gray, and green, reduce glare and eye strain, and are very useful if you’ll be wearing your polarized sunglasses in very bright conditions. Gray and green tints don’t distort colors, but brown might, so if you want your perception of color to be highly accurate, it’s best to stay away from brown.

Light colors like yellow, gold, amber, and rose are best in low to moderate light, and they allow great depth perception and enhance contrasts. When picking your lens tint color, it all comes down to your intended use.

6. Frame & Lens Materials

Beyond the color of frames and lenses, the actual material is equally important. Here’s the common materials found in frames:

Frames

Plastic: From sports to casual sunglasses, plastic frames are durable, lightweight, and inexpensive. Plastic allows you to showcase your unique style as this frame material can come in many different color options. Cheap plastic frames can break, fade, or melt easily, so they’re not intended for men who want sunglasses to last.

Durable plastic frames made from acetate, a nylon-based plastic, are strong, flexible, and common on many high-end sunglasses (source); however, they’re also more expensive than basic plastic.

Metal: There are plenty of different metal types that are used for sunglass frames. Here are a few of the most common:

• Monel: A widely used metal mixture that is both malleable and corrosion resistant (learn more here).
• Titanium: A very durable and lightweight metal, titanium resists corrosion and is often made from an alloy to increase durability and affordability.
• Beryllium: Beryllium is similar to titanium but comes at a lower cost and is also lightweight, strong, and flexible.
• Stainless steel: Lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion and heat.
• Aluminum: A very lightweight metal, aluminum is resistant to corrosion, offers a unique look; it’s typically blended with other metals and materials to add strength and durability that aluminum would not have on its own.

There are plenty of other less practical options, including wood and crystal frames. However, these are mainly used as fashion statements and are not very durable or practical.

Lenses

Glass Lenses: They offer the best viewing quality and are the most scratch-resistant lenses available. On the flip side, though, they are the most expensive lens type and can be prone to shattering – still, it may be worth it if clarity is of the utmost importance to you.

Plastic / Polycarbonate Lenses: These lenses are lightweight and impact resistant. Although they don’t offer the same viewing quality as glass lenses, they tend to be more durable. Acrylic and polycarbonate plastic are the two options here, with polycarbonate plastic being the better of the two.

7. Price Range

Just like with normal sunglasses, the price of polarized sunglasses can vary from $15 dollars to several hundred dollars. Polarized sunglasses do tend to be more expensive than standard sunglasses on average, as polarized technology is specialized and doesn’t come with every pair of shades. To get a good pair of polarized sunglasses, you can expect to pay between 50 and 250 dollars; this will ensure you’re getting sunglasses with good materials, 100% UV protection, and a great style.

8. Other extra features that many men love in polarized sunglasses

There are plenty of extra features out there that can be great depending on your intended use. Here are some of the most common:

• UV Protection: We’re listing UV protection as an extra feature here, but realistically it should be something that all men consider when looking at polarized sunglasses. 100% UV protection is always recommended, as it prevents your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays and keeps your vision working as it should.
• UV400 Protection: You may notice in your search that some companies feature UV400 protection. UV400 protection means that the lenses will block both UVA and UVB rays along with all other rays with a wavelength less than 400 nanometers. This additional protection can help to prevent eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration and others from happening (source).
• Photochromic (Transitional) Lenses: Photochromic lenses, also known as transitional lenses, darken when they’re exposed to specific kinds of light. This feature is most common in prescription sunglasses to make them useful in outdoor and indoor situations. Though you won’t find this feature in many pairs of polarized sunglasses, it can be helpful depending on your needs.
• Hypoallergenic: Hypoallergenic sunglasses only matter if you have sensitive skin or allergies, but if you do, remember that the term hypoallergenic is not well-regulated. Many brands will claim that their sunglasses are hypoallergenic when in fact they are not, so as a general rule, look for acetate, titanium, and stainless steel to be hypoallergenic materials. Nickel is a material that’s best avoided if you have sensitive skin, as it is known to cause irritation.
• Bifocal/Progressive Lenses: On bifocal and progressive polarized lenses, the bottom portion of the lens is for near vision (like reading glasses), and the top portion is for regular distance or long distance, depending on your viewing needs. Bifocal lenses will have a distinct line between these two, while progressive lenses feature a more gradual transition. Progressive lenses also have a middle range of vision, called intermediate, that’s perfect for viewing something a few feet in front of your face.
• Blue Light Protection: Blue light is a type of light that’s emitted from electronic screens, and limiting blue light can help you sleep better at night (source). Not all polarized sunglasses have blue light protection as this filter is intended for indoor use only.
• Interchangeable Lenses: Interchangeable lenses are great, particularly if you use your polarized sunglasses in a wide variety of situations where different lens tints are necessary. If you plan to use the same pair of polarized sunglasses for sports, fishing, driving, and the beach, for example, you might want to look for a pair with interchangeable lenses.
• Glare Blocking Side Panels: Side panels to block glare are a rare feature on polarized sunglasses that help to prevent glare from your peripheral vision. They’re typically magnetic and will easily affix to the inside of the sunglasses. These are great for adventurers, hikers, or those who will be in a wide array of lighting conditions.
• Spring Hinges: Sunglasses with spring hinges allow for extra give between the temples and rims greatly reducing the chance of the sunglasses breaking. This little feature can be a lifesaver if you lead an active lifestyle or simply want more durability in your next pair of sunglasses.

The 10 Best Polarized Sunglasses for Men of 2020 Reviewed

1. Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Durable and should last a long time
• Real glass lenses are scratch resistant
• Blocks harsh sun rays

Best For:

Anyone that wants the best bang for their buck when buying a versatile pair of sunglasses.

Summary

What does Jack Nicholson, Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, and Cary Grant all have in common?

They all wore Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses.

Introduced in 1956 (source), the Wayfarer style was an instant classic that has been a fixture in American pop culture. Not only are these sunglasses timeless in design, but they are also intimately versatile, making them one of the best polarized sunglasses for the money. Whether you are attending a business meeting with high-level executives or looking for a pair of sunglasses to wear on the weekends, Wayfarers will pretty much never look out of place.

While the design and versatility are one thing, the reason why we think this is such a great value buy is that the sunglasses are well made.  With high quality glass lenses that are scratch-resistant, these sunglasses can withstand a ton of abuse.  Furthermore, the lenses provide strong sun protection with a 100% UV block rating.

Perfect for everyday use, these glasses come in many different lens treatments. From mirrored lenses to several gradient lenses, you should be able to find one to match your style. Of course, if you want the classic version, we recommend opting for the green classic lenses.

Furthermore, the acetate frames are lightweight, yet wear comfortably against your head. 

Important to note is that Ray Ban offers the Wayfarer in two different sizes:

• Standard (50mm lens width, 22mm bridge width)
• Large (54mm lens width, 18mm bridge width)

Additionally, these sunglasses are available with prescription lenses.

Noticeably absent from the Wayfarers is a rubber nose pad, three-point fit (commonly found in other brands), rubber temples, etc.

While they don’t offer a lifetime breakage warranty found in other sunglass brands, Ray-Ban does at least offer a limited warranty against breakage due to manufacturer defects.

Pros

• Moderate color contrast great for everyday use
• Frame material is lightweight and durable
• Lens style is timeless

Cons

• Carry case is a bit flimsy
• Not as substitute for sports glasses

What You Need To Know

When looking for everyday sunglasses, the Ray-Ban Wayfarers set the standard when it comes to timeless and elegant design. Able to withstand a variety of weather conditions thanks to the durable design, these polarized lenses are indispensable when filtering harsh visible light making them one of the best polarized sunglasses for men.

2. Warby Parker Durand Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Available in both medium and wide options
• Polycarbonate lenses are lightweight and durable
• Great to wear as casual or driving sunglasses
• 1-year no-scratch guarantee

Best For:

Men who want stylish polarized sunglasses at an affordable price from a respected brand.

Summary

When it comes to online stores for eyeglasses, Warby Parker sets the standard when it comes to both design and price.  While sure, there are other outlets such as Zenni Optical that may have pre-dated them, there is no denying the disruption that Warby Parker has done to the industry.  Instead of paying several hundred dollars for designer sunglasses, they challenged the status quo and offered great sunglasses for under $100.  While offering stylish and affordable sunglasses is one thing, if you have poor vision, you will be happy to learn that you can buy a pair of prescription sunglasses for a fraction of the price (typically less than $200) when compared to the designer brands. 

Beyond saving your wallet, the materials that they use are decent.  To help achieve these significant savings, frames such as the Durand are made from hand-polished cellulose acetate.  This material is both strong and fairly light, making it not feel like its overtaking your face when worn. 

The lenses on the Warby Parker Durand are the same found in other quality polarized sunglasses: polycarbonate.  This synthetic material is impact resistant.

Warby Parker really shines when compared to other sunglasses brands when it comes to standing by their product.  Once shipped, you have a 30-day return window and a one-year scratch guarantee on the quality of the lenses. So if you drop the glasses and the lenses somehow become scratched, you can send them in and get them replaced for free.

When it comes to the lens options available, Warby Parker offers the following:

• Non-prescription
• Single-vision
• Progressives
• Readers

To put it simply, you don’t have to make a single compromise when buying your sunglasses.

Pros

• Affordable and stylish
• Low-price prescription eyewear options available

Cons

• Not suited for sporting activities

What You Need To Know

When it comes to Warby Parker Durand’s, there is a lot to love.  Great looking sunglasses at a fraction of the price of the bigger brands.  The 1-year no-scratch guarantee is among the best in the business.

3. Raen Optics Remmy Polarized Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Handmade zyl acetate frames
• Five barrel hinges provide rigid strength to the body
• Best-in-class CR-39 lenses made by Carl Zeiss Vision

Best For:

Men who want adequate protection for their eyes while also looking stylish.

Summary

A timeless and elegant design, the Raen Optics Remmy Polarized Sunglasses are a terrific pick for those men who want one of the best polarized sunglasses that are truly unique and stylish.  Not only is the design on these sunglasses top notch, but the quality of craftsmanship is unparalleled.

Unlike so many brands that mass produce their sunglasses in factories, every pair of Raen Optics sunglasses are handmade.  Crafted from a single flat sheet of sustainably sourced zyl acetate (source), this hypoallergenic material has a distinct and one-of-a-kind look.

Relying on high quality CR-39 lenses that have been manufactured by Carl Zeiss Vision, the world’s leading manufacturer of precision optics, the quality is unmatched.  Furthermore, the lenses have a moderate 6 base curve.  This just simply means that the curve of the glass isn’t nearly as aggressive as an 8 base curve that is found in wraparound sunglasses.

While these sunglasses are largely sold online, Raen Optics does have a location on the west coast in Oceanside, California where the company headquarters are located.

If you decide to order directly from their website, Raen offers several color and size options.

For warranty info, Raen Optics offers a 365-day warranty from the time of purchase.  It is important to note that this warranty does not cover scratched lenses and physical damage.  Instead, it just covers manufacturer’s defects or flaws in the product.

Pros

• Sophisticated style perfect for wearing around town
• Attention to detail is unmatched
• Handmade ensures quality

Cons

• Expect to pay a premium

What You Need To Know

While they won’t work well for a strenuous activity such as biking, hiking, running, etc., they are perfect weekend wear.  Their sophisticated design will upgrade your overall style.

4. Drifter Polarized Retro Square Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Costs less than 20 bucks
• Timeless style works for many occasions
• Several options and styles available

Best For:

Men looking to save a few bucks on their next pair of shades.

Summary

When it comes to finding the best cheap polarized sunglasses for men, there perhaps is no better place to go than sunglasswarehouse.com. While we will review their nice Drifter shades in just a minute, if you aren’t familiar with them already, Sunglass Wearhouse is an online-only store that features both trendy and classic quality sunglass styles at rock-bottom prices.

While many men who like to keep their expenses in check and are looking for a decent pair of polarized sunglasses for under $50, the shades you see here are actually less than half that price.  To be more specific, they are under $20 a pair.

…So, what’s the catch?

Simple, instead of carrying designer brands and artificially raising prices, they charge a fair value for sunglasses given the materials involved. 

When reviewing the Drifter sunglasses, what we particularly liked about them was the quality.  With 99% UVA/UVB sun protection coupled with polarized lenses, your eyes will remain protected throughout the day. 

To lend to the stylishness factor of these shades, Sunglass Warehouse makes them in three different combinations:

• Black frame with smoke lenses
• Tortoiseshell frame with amber lenses
• Brown frame with amber lenses

If uncertain, the tortoiseshell frames are always a classic choice. Beyond the color and eye protection, we were happy to see discrete dimensions for these sunglasses available (including the temple length, nose bridge width, lens height, etc.). This way you can compare measurements to existing sunglasses and see how they compare before you place your order.

While these sunglasses are cheap, we still wanted to mention the return policy.  You will be happy to learn that Sunglass Warehouse offers a money-back guarantee (minus shipping) on sunglasses within 365 days from the date of purchase.

Now it is worth noting that to keep the price down, these sunglasses do not come with a case.  While likely not a dealbreaker for many, it’s a small detail that is worth mentioning.

Pros

• Available in several different color combinations
• Protects your eyes from harmful UV radiation
• Affordable

Cons

• No case included

What You Need To Know

If you don’t care about high end designer brands and want to save a few bucks, then these sunglasses are a perfect pick. Expect a few compromises when it comes to extras (no case).

5. Costa Del Mar Saltbreak Polarized Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Polarized fishing glasses done right
• Several lens colors for different uses
• Help you see easily through the water

Best For:

Anglers who are looking for fishing sunglasses that provide sharp visibility through the water.

Summary

When it comes to finding the right pair of sunglasses for fishing, most experts agree that the best brand out there is Costa Del Mar.  But what makes them so great?

To put it simply, the Costa Del Mar Saltbreak Sunglasses were designed for fishing.  Whether you are miles off the Florida coast saltwater fishing or freshwater fishing in Western New York, these sunglasses will up your game by allowing you to be able to see through the water to spot fish. 

Now when it comes to lens color and lens technology, it’s important to be familiar with how Costa Del Mar categorizes their lenses.  At the time of initial publication, Costa Del Mar makes the following lens varieties:

As you can see above, for the serious fishermen, the blue mirror and green mirror lenses will be your best bet when it comes to visibility.  These lenses provide a high contrast that will filter out the surface glare produced by light waves. 

Now if you aren’t sold on the frame style of the Saltbreak variety, then a few options will be the Costa Del Mar Fantail or Costa Del Mar Tuna Alley sunglasses.  Both rely on the same quality glass and lenses that provide increased visibility when fishing.

One noteworthy feature about Costa Del Mar sunglasses that you will want to know about is the lens material.  Most of their sunglasses can be bought with either a plastic or glass lens.  With a ~$60 premium, glass lenses provide better protection and durability.  Should a fishtail come up and catch you in the face, you can expect the glass to withstand the impact.

While the lenses of these fishing sunglasses are superior, so too are the frames.  These lightweight nylon frames are durable and feature a hydrolite rubber grip.  Used on both the nose pads and temple, this grippy texture will make sure that the sunglasses don’t fall off if you quickly turn your head (for example: if a fish splashes water up at your face while fishing).  If you are on a boat, this little feature can help you save a few hundred bucks by not having your sunglasses go overboard and sink to the bottom of the ocean.

Should these sunglasses ever break, Costa Del Mar offers a lifetime warranty.

You can get these sunglasses with prescription lenses, however, you will have to order directly from one of their preferred retailers: FramesDirect.com or SportRx.com.

Pros

• Great for all types of fishing (sight fishing, fly fishing, saltwater fishing, etc.)
• Green & blue mirror lenses great for highly reflective conditions
• Rubber temple pads and nose pads make for a comfortable fit

Cons

• High contrast may cause some color distortion

What You Need To Know

Respected by the fishing community, the Costa Del Mar Saltbreaks are the best polarized sunglasses for fishing currently available. With great visibility through the water along with a smart and lightweight frame design make these sunglasses a winner for fishermen everywhere.

6. Maui Jim Peahi Polarized Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Great for boating
• Strong blue light protection
• SuperThin glass lens is scratch and solvent resistant
• Anti-corrosive spring hinge

Best For:

Whether you are boating, having fun with water sports, or hanging at the tiki hut, these sunglasses are the quintessential beach shades.

Summary

Getting its name from the surf break on the north side of Maui, the Maui Jim Pe’ahi sunglasses were not only inspired by, but made for the open water.

Whether you are boating on the open ocean or at a local river, these shades by Maui Jim give you clear visibility, no matter how big the waves are.  So if you are pulling into a dock or on a sandy beach, the enhanced visibility will reduce water glare so you can see any hazardous objects in the water such as rocks.

The reason that these sunglasses perform so well in strenuous light conditions is thanks to the SuperThin polarized lenses.  They work well to block distracting glares and other changing light conditions such as waves.

With frames made from Grilamid, a variant of polymer, these sunglasses are extremely durable and should withstand a fall or two.  To help keep these sunglasses secured, the temples are made from a hypoallergenic Cellulose Propionate that has rubber ends.

What does this mean for you?

These sunglasses will rest comfortably snug on your face and not require constant readjustment when a large gust of wind hits you on the open water.

Now if boating or water sports is not the primary reason you are buying these shades, not a problem. These sunglasses by Maui Jim are great for everyday use given their classic style and all-day wearing comfort. 

One of the few pair of sunglasses available that has earned the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation, Maui Jim sunglasses are one of the best picks out there if you are serious about protecting your eyes.

Included with the sunglasses is a tri-fold case and cleaning cloth.

Given that these shades are quite pricey, to provide you with peace of mind, Maui Jim does offer a two-year warranty.

Pros

• Neutral grey lenses offer great color perception
• Moderate lens sizes offer balanced protection
• Grilamid frames are extremely durable
• Available in several different lens and frame colors

Cons

• Frames may begin to degrade if exposed to harsh conditions for prolonged periods

What You Need To Know

While these sunglasses are made for boating and water sports, men who want to fully embrace the beach bum lifestyle will love these sunglasses.  They provide great clarity on the water and strong protection from the bright sand.

7. Oakley Holbrook Polarized Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Lightweight nylon frame
• Reduces distractions from intense sunlight
• Ideal for most drivers

Best For:

Anyone who wants clear and sharp vision when driving.

Summary

When it comes to seeing changing traffic lights, potential oncoming traffic, and general road hazards, it’s important to get a quality pair of polarized sunglasses that were designed for driving. There perhaps is no better option out there than the Oakley Holbrook sunglasses with Prizm Polarized lenses (you can learn more about Prizm technology here).

With a moderate Visual Light Transmission (also known as tint density) rate of 12%, these work great in sunny conditions and provide you with terrific contrast and detail of the objects on the road while blocking out an impressive 99% of the reflected glare.  This means that you can easily see red lights or pedestrians and any other potential road hazards. Whether you are driving in the snow, near a large body of water, or simply down a long stretch of interstate, you will be able to keep your eyes on the road. Furthermore, with such a great tint level you will not get headaches from eye strain or eye fatigue, making you a safe and responsible driver and likely reducing your chance of future accidents.

When it comes to the design of the Oakley Holbrook polarized sunglasses, they expertly capture the spirit of adventure.  With a classic frame design that works for most face shapes, even when you aren’t driving, these shades will still look pretty sweet, hence the extraordinary high rating many other reviewers give this pair of sunglasses.

While you can find the Oakley Holbrook’s in metal, the one we reviewed was made with O Matter.  O Matter is Oakley’s proprietary material that is synthetic, lightweight, and strong. Similar to acetate frames, the Oakley Holbrook sunglasses won’t rust nor feel heavy on your face when worn for extended periods of time.

For the men who have poor vision, and simply don’t like wearing contact lenses for extended periods (or at all), Oakley does offer prescription lenses for an additional cost.

Lastly, the price.  When it comes to Oakley sunglasses, they can cost a couple of hundred dollars.  While the Holbrook’s are by no means cheap, they are at least in range for most.  With a price tag hovering around the lower $100s, they are a great deal given the quality.  However, if you plan on getting prescription glasses for this frame, expect to pay a premium.

Pros

• Makes for the perfect driving experience
• Protects your eyes from harmful UV light
• Easily see important dashboard information
• Distracting sunlight from windshields becomes a thing of the past

Cons

• Prescription glasses variant is pricey

What You Need To Know

When it comes to the best polarized sunglasses for driving, there is no better option than the Oakley Holbrook’s.  The reduction in glare allows for great visibility no matter the conditions you are driving in.  These sunglasses are also incredibly stylish making them a versatile pair to wear on the weekends.

8. Callaway Sungear Kite Golf Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Improved contrast allows you to read greens better
• Great at protecting your eyes from intense rays while on the course
• Modest price point

Best For:

Golfers who want a great pair of sunglasses that help improve their performance when hitting the links.

Summary

When it comes to trying to see your golf ball in the air or trying to read a green, clear vision is everything. All it takes is one distracting glare to lose your ball in the rough or misread a green on a hole and lose a friendly game with your buddies. Unfortunately for most, your typical everyday sunglasses just simply won’t cut it when hitting the golf course.  To perform your best, you need to go with lightweight sunglasses that provide great depth perception on even the sunniest days.

Truth be told, when reviewing a variety of sunglasses including the now discontinued Nike Golf X2 Pro (although you can still find plenty of them on eBay), Nike Maverick Polarized, Oakley Flak 2.0, and others, the Callaway Kite sunglasses simply checked all the boxes when it came to both performance and quality.

With specially designed golf lenses made for the rich colors found on golf courses across the world, these lenses offer 100% protection from a variety of harmful UV rays including UVA, UVB, and UVC.

Unlike so many other golf sunglasses that come up short, it’s the little details that set the Callaway Kite sunglasses apart from the pack.  With adjustable nose pads and a Hydrophilic Megol temple, these will stay comfortably on your face when swinging the club or sweating on the back nine on a hot summer day. The frame size of these sunglasses is a bit larger. Callaway recommends these golf sunglasses for a medium to large head size.

When it comes to extras, Callaway includes some great extras with these sunglasses including a lens cloth, carry pouch, and a rigid case that can be easily clipped onto your golf bag.

Pros

• Likely take a few strokes off your golf game
• Increased depth perception
• Designed for a larger head size
• Reduces sun glare

Cons

• No prescription option available

What You Need To Know

With these specially designed golf lenses, the Callaway Kite sunglasses will help to increase your overall performance through better vision when on the golf course, especially on sunny days.  When compared to the alternatives, these are the best polarized sunglasses for golf.

9. Oakley Flight Jacket Shield Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Great field of vision
• Secure fit
• Specially designed nose piece increases airflow

Best For:

Anyone looking for a great pair of cycling sunglasses that have a great field of vision and lightweight design.

Summary

While initially designed for both cycling and running, the aerodynamic design of the Oakley Flight Jacket sunglasses is well thought out and remarkable, to say the least.  First, the field of view for these cycling sunglasses is unmatched. With an open-edge brow that allows you to see objects on the road ahead without having to move your head upwards, you can concentrate on your performance above all else.

Made with Oakley PRIZM lens technology, the specially designed polarized glass improves contrast for road conditions, allowing you to spot an uneven surface or even pothole with ease.  To ensure that you don’t ever have to readjust the glasses while in the middle of a race, the no-slip Unobtainium nose pads and ear locks will stay in place even as sweat begins to build up.

But perhaps the biggest selling point to these running and cycling sunglasses is the anti-fog design.  With a specially designed nose bridge and temple design, air can flow between the glass and your body to prevent fog from obstructing your view.  While these sunglasses were designed for athletes pushing their bodies to the max, we think that the anti-fog glass makes it also a great pick for motorcyclists (who aren’t happy with the visor on their helmet of course), urban cyclists, and perhaps even skateboarders.

If there were any shortcomings for these sunglasses it would be around replacement parts.  Unlike its primary competitor, the Rudy Project Defender sunglasses, Oakley doesn’t offer replacement temple tips, rubber nose pieces, etc.  Instead, the only replacement option available for the Flight Jacket is the lens itself (typically costs ~$50). With that being said, when compared to the Ruby Project Defender sunglasses, the Oakley Flight Jackets are a bit cheaper.  

Should the frame break on you at any point, Oakley does offer a 50% off full-price replacement with their Oakley MVP Loyalty Program (learn more here).

If you order these direct from Oakley, you can get them with a prescription. 

Pros

• The browless frame provides an unmatched field of vision
• Replacement lens available
• Adjustable nose piece
• Provides a clear view of upcoming road surface
• Several frame options

Cons

• Not for casual use
• Not for every budget

What You Need To Know

These high-quality polarized sports sunglasses by Oakley are among the best out there.  While they do great at protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, the lightweight plastic frame and great field of view allow you to concentrate on your performance rather than getting distracted by glare and various road hazards.

10. SunCloud Aviator Polarized Sunglasses

Best Features:

• Polycarbonate lens is lightweight and impact resistant
• The aviator style is a timeless frame shape
• The metal frame is lightweight and strong

Best For:

Anyone looking for classic design and full coverage from intense UV exposure.

Summary

Originally made for the U.S. Aviators in 1937, this classic style provides full coverage from the sun and its harmful UV rays.  What made the SunCloud stand out against other aviator polarized sunglasses was the lens quality, frame design, and other small, although very important, design details.

First up, the lenses.  While glass is considered by many to be the superior choice when it comes to clarity, glass lenses fall short when it comes to weight and its impact rating.  Made with polycarbonate, the SunCloud Aviator sunglasses are 20 times more impact resistant and significantly lighter when compared to glass. 

While the weight and safety of these lenses are unrivaled, the SunCloud frames are also top notch.  Made from a sturdy metal alloy frame, these sunglasses can withstand quite a lot of abuse before showing any signs of wear and tear. Furthermore, the hinges on the temples are spring-loaded which won’t bend or break easily. 

Rather than relying on rubber nose pads as is common in many of the cheap sunglass brands, the SunCloud relies on a silicon padding, which is much more grippy.  What does this mean for you?  When it’s the middle of August and sweat is dripping down your face, the sunglasses won’t start sliding down.  As we stated earlier, it’s a little detail, but one that will make you love rather than loathe these sunglasses.

Pros

• Classic sunglasses that will look great for years
• Perfect for people who want durability
• Grip nose pads and temple tips won’t slip

Cons

• Made for large faces

What You Need To Know

When it comes to the selecting a pair of classic sunglasses, aviators will be at the top of the list alongside wayfarers.  SunCloud gets a lot right in this offering.  The metal frame, silicone nose pads, and polycarbonate lenses work together to make for a compelling offering. To put it simply, these sunglasses feature best-in-class design and one that you will be happy with.

Other Polarized Sunglasses Reviewed

Mira Breeze Y Sunglasses

With full UV400 protection and mirror lenses, these offer crystal clear vision.  Backed by a lifetime warranty and including a case, the Mira Breeze Y Sunglasses are a great value pick.

REKS Optics Unbreakable Sling Blade Sunglasses

With an unbreakable frame, the Reks Optics Sling Blade sunglasses are the ultimate tactical polarized sunglasses.  Able to eliminate sharp reflections thanks to strong polarization, they help to clearly see objects that might be coming towards your face.

Under Armour Igniter Polarized Sunglasses

These ultralight and durable frames made from grilamid, the Under Armour Igniter Polarized Sunglasses fit comfortably and securely.  The gray polarized lenses provide great color contrast.

Torege Polarized Sports Sunglasses

Equipped with three interchangeable lenses (revo lens, polarized lens, and night vision lens), these sports sunglasses by Torege are great for all environments and seasons. Perfect for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, expect them to wear well on your face thanks to the rubber nosepad and temple tips.

Attcl Driving Polarized Sunglasses

With mirrored lenses for highly sensitive eyes, these sunglasses by Attcl will be great at reducing eye strain when driving for prolonged periods.  In addition to driving, many people found these to be great for winter sports as well.

4 Must-Have Accessories For Your New Polarized Sunglasses

1. Case

Most sunglasses, even the cheap ones, come with cases. However, many manufacturer cases are flimsy and just a token of appreciation – they’re not always cases you actually want to keep your sunglasses in. A strong case offers better protection, particularly if you do a lot of traveling. A good case can also help you avoid scratches and breaks in daily use.

2. Microfiber Cloth & Eyeglass Spray

Eyeglass spray and a microfiber cleaning cloth are essential for maintaining the visibility and cleanliness of your sunglasses. Microfiber cloths are important – use something else, and you may end up scratching or damaging your lens beyond repair. Avoid water to clean your lenses if at all possible, because water contains mineral deposits that could hamper visibility.

3. Strap / Retainer

A strap certainly doesn’t function for style, but it’s useful during activities where your sunglasses might fall off.

Straps generally have a small loop on each side to attach to the arms of your sunglasses and keep them secure while you’re playing sports or doing some other form of activity. They can help to keep them from getting lost, especially if you’re at a theme park, fishing, jogging, or doing something where there’s a risk of them falling off.

4. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is probably the biggest miss on most men’s grooming regimens. It’s extremely important, yet often gets overlooked. If you’re wearing sunglasses, you’re likely wearing them outdoors, which means you’ll need to make sure you have sunscreen on as well.

Wearing sunscreen prevents awkward tan lines around your eyes after wearing sunglasses, and a minimum of 15 SPF is necessary no matter the season, even if it’s cloudy out. We’ve put together an article on our favorite men’s sunscreens if you’re not sure what to purchase.

Polarized Sunglasses FAQs

What is the difference between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses?

There is a major difference between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses have a special filter in the glass (cheap brands apply the coat to the lens) that blocks the horizontal light but lets the vertical light pass through. It’s through this unique filtering system that LCD screens such as those found in GPS units, digital cameras, and even older phone screens are unable to be seen when looking through polarized sunglasses.

Normal sunglasses don’t have this horizontal blocking filter, and instead just rely on a single layer of tint.

What are the best polarized sunglasses?

It all depends on your intent. If you’re playing a lot of sports or doing outdoor activities, Costa Del Mar makes some great options. However, if you’re looking for something more stylish and modern, other brands like Ray-Ban should be able to suit your needs.

Are polarized sunglasses bad for your eyes?

They are not. In fact, polarized sunglasses can be great for your eyes by blocking out the sun’s glare and helping you to see better.

How can you tell if sunglasses are UV protected?

Put your suspect polarized sunglasses on, look at a digital screen, and then turn your head sideways. If the picture on the screen becomes black, or really hard to view, then you have polarized sunglasses.

Are polarized lenses worth it?

Polarized lenses are worth the price. The reduction in glare reduces eye fatigue and offers better protection for your eyes.

What color of polarized lens is best?

The color of the lens depends on intent. For general use, a charcoal or brown tint is recommended. However, if you are going golfing, cycling, sight fishing, etc., then you will want to go with a lens color suited for that activity. We recommend checking the company website or product description for suggested uses.

What should I look for when buying sunglasses?

When buying sunglasses you want to look at all the features and see how they compare to the other options available. At the start of this guide we shared with you several key factors to consider when buying polarized sunglasses.

Are polarized sunglasses ideal for driving cars?

Polarized sunglasses are recommended for driving. Polarized sunglasses reduce glare and allow you to see the road better. They are particularly useful if you live in a bright and sunny climate.

Polarized Sunglasses vs. The Alternatives

Polarized Sunglasses

We’ve covered this extensively, but polarized sunglasses are sunglasses that have been treated to block out glare and increase contrast. They have a wide variety of uses, and are generally a little bit more expensive than regular sunglasses.

Non-Polarized / Regular Sunglasses

Sunglasses are pretty straightforward, and if you’ve read this article you no doubt already know what they are. The main difference between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses is that non-polarized sunglasses do not do as good of a job at reducing glare from the sun.

Mirrored Sunglasses

Mirrored sunglasses include a coating on the outward-facing side of the lens that acts as a small mirror, much like you see on many snowboarding googles. This is a common feature with many polarized sunglasses.

Our Criteria for Choosing the Best Polarized Sunglasses

When selecting the polarized sunglasses that are featured on this list, we considered a wide variety of features. As always, we aimed to include a diverse list of polarized sunglasses that had something for everyone.

Above, you’ll find a comprehensive list of the best polarized sunglasses for men – when it comes down to your personal choice, your intended use for your sunglasses will determine which option works best for you.