Best Sport Sunglasses of 2025

The right pair of sports sunglasses should do more than just make you look good—they need to deliver top-notch optics for whatever activity you’re tackling. For casual hikes, climbs, or runs, a basic lens might do the trick. But if you’re bombing down a mountain bike trail, traversing technical glaciers, or running an ultra, you’ll want sunglasses that offer solid protection, sharp options, and a performance fit. Shield-style sunglasses have become a favorite among outdoor athletes for their wide field of view and full-face coverage, but classic frames still hold their own, especially if you want something that crosses over into casual use. We’ve tested a ton of sunglasses, from the Patagonia wilderness to the peaks of Nepal. Below, you'll find our top sports sunglasses of 2025 with offerings from brands like Smith, Julbo, Oakley, Sunski, and Tifosi. For more info, check out the comparison table, peruse our buying advice, and peek into our testing process after the picks.
 

Our Team's Sunglasses Picks

• Best Sunglasses for Hiking: Smith Lowdown 2 Series
• Best Budget Sports Sunglasses: Goodr OG Series
• Best Sunglasses for Running: Julbo Ultimate Reactiv
• Best Sunglasses for Skiing and Snowboarding: Smith Wildcat
• Best Sunglasses for Cycling: Oakley Sutro
• Best Sunglasses for Climbing: Ombraz Viale

Best Sunglasses for Hiking

1. Smith Lowdown 2 Series ($165-255)

Frame size: Medium
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: Available
What we like: A stylish and durable pair of sunnies with premium optics.
What we don't: Expensive and not the best choice for technical objectives.

Whether the summit is the ultimate objective or you’re hitting the trails to enjoy the scenery, Smith’s Lowdown 2 Series sunnies are the ultimate companion for hiking. The Lowdown’s defining feature is optics: In our opinion, you can’t beat Smith’s ChromaPop lens coating, which sharpens clarity by filtering out overlapping colors and enhancing saturation. Plus, their lenses are outfitted with smudge, moisture, and anti-reflective coatings that will resist sunscreen smears and the harsh sun rays while you enjoy lunch by the lake. The Lowdown’s semi-square frame is durable, and strikes a nice balance between sporty and casual. And when you’re hoofing it up steep switchbacks, the Lowdown’s rubber nose pads and excellent ventilation prevent slippage and fogging.

The biggest drawback to the Lowdown is price: With a starting cost of $165 for the non-polarized model, these sunnies are quite the investment. If you’re willing to sacrifice some lens tech and durability, we’ve had great luck with Sunski’s options, like the Tera and Treeline (listed below). Those headed out on more technical objectives (think glacier travel and mountaineering) might want to opt for a shield over a traditional pair of sunglasses, which offer more protection and panoramic optics. Still, for the everyday hiker who wants one pair of sunnies that can handle a bit of everything, the Lowdowns are hard to beat. And for a different look with similar versatility, consider the Smith Eastbank Core or Wander below.
See the Smith Lowdown 2 Series
 

Best Budget Sports Sunglasses

2. Goodr OG Series ($25)

Frame size: Medium
Lens materials: Tri Acetate Cellulose (TAC)
Polarized: Yes
What we like: Comfortable, stylish, and decent optics for a budget design.
What we don't: Very simple design has limited performance and can be uncomfortable for large heads.

We get it: Sometimes you just want some sunnies you can let roll around your car or your backpack without a second thought— a pair you won't stress over losing or breaking. No sweat, Goodr’s got you covered with their $25 OG Series sunnies. But don’t be fooled by the gas station price tag, the OGs are one of our favorite specs for their style and performance. These semi-round (or semi-square) sunnies flatter most face shapes, and, in our experience, their snug yet lightweight build remains comfortable even after hours of wear. Plus, the grip-coated frame gives them extra security for sweaty endeavors. And while their lenses aren't the most premium on the market, they are polarized, which helps block glare, and there are some mirrored and gradient options available as well. Goodr also has one of the most extensive color selections we've seen: At the time of publishing, there are 81 different styles of OGs to pick from on Goodr’s site, including a few National Park designs for $5 extra.

We have so many friends who ride-or-die by their Goodrs, and they use them for a variety of outdoor sports, be it climbing, hiking, cycling, or running. Though, like the Lowdowns above, the Goodrs aren't the best choice for technical pursuits, and you’ll find them limiting in circumstances where you need advanced lens technology (riding your bike at fast speeds, for example) or a super low VLT (visible light transmission, or how much light reaches you eye through the lens). We've also had some hit-and-miss experiences with their long-term durability—the reflective lenses seem particularly prone to scratching—and the simple plastic arms and non-rubberized nose pads can be bothersome for those with large heads or high bridges. But for $25, we really can’t complain. Lastly, it’s worth scrolling around Goodr’s site to find the style that you like best—they have a variety of styles (round, aviator, square, glam, etc.) all for around the same price.
See the Goodr OG Series
 

Best Sunglasses for Running

3. Julbo Ultimate Reactiv ($240)

Frame size: Medium
Lens materials: Trivex
Polarized: No
What we like: A photochromic shield that vents well and has a customizable fit.
What we don't: Sporty-looking and expensive.

When it comes to running, fit and ventilation are paramount, and in recent testing, Julbo’s Ultimate has impressed us more than most. These lightweight shields offer a customizable fit with adjustable rubber nose pads and bendable Griptech arms, letting you fine-tune them to your face shape. The grippy materials keep them in place during sweaty efforts, and the full-frame ventilation keeps fog at bay, even during sweaty workouts. We’re also impressed by Julbo’s Reactiv photochromic lenses, which adapt to changing light with a VLT range of 13% to 72% and provide full UV protection.

That said, the Ultimates lean technical in both style and performance. Some runners may prefer a more casual, budget-friendly option like the Goodrs above. But non-tech frames tend to bounce more and fog up faster, especially during high-output activities. The shield design of the Ultimates also offers wide, uninterrupted optics and better sun protection. If you like the idea of a shield but want a different look, check out the Smith Wildcats or Oakley Sutros below as alternatives. And if you like the look of the Ultimate but are looking for a bit more protection for glacier travel, the Ultimate Cover has a lower VLT (7%) and comes with nose and side shields.
See the Julbo Ultimate Reactiv
 

Best Sunglasses for Skiing and Snowboarding

4. Smith Wildcat ($225)

Frame size: Medium
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: Available
What we like: Sunglasses that offer the protection of a goggle; Smith-level optics and comfort.
What we don't: Pricey and runs large.

Smith’s Wildcat shields have been our go-to choice of eyewear over the last few ski seasons, and we’ve worn them on everything from bluebird resort days to backcountry glacier tours. Billed as a hybrid design, the ‘Cats offer goggle-level protection with the ventilation and sleeker style of sunglasses. We found the lens-change system a bit tough to master, but nonetheless love the versatility it offers. You get your choice of lens upon purchase—we opted for their photochromic Clear to Grey lens (12-67% VLT)—and a bonus clear lens ideal for alpine starts (additional lenses can be purchased through Smith’s site as well). Lastly, Smith’s ChromaPop lens coating, which boosts color definition, has proven to be a boon in choppy terrain and low-depth lighting.

It’s true the Wildcats come with a hefty price tag, but the extra lens, hard case, and microfiber lens sleeve add solid value. We also thought they ran large for a “medium” fit. For smaller faces, we’ve had luck with Smith’s Bobcat, and larger faces should consider the Pursuit (which comes with side and nose shields). Gripes aside, we think the Wildcats offer an impressive balance of protection, optical performance, and style that make them a no-brainer choice for skiers and snowboarders alike. They’ve even earned a place in our packs for alpine trails runs and cross-country bike rides. 
See the Smith Wildcat
 

Best Sunglasses for Cycling

5. Oakley Sutro ($203)

Frame size: One size
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: Yes
What we like: Purpose-built for cyclists, with a helmet-compatible fit and enhanced peripheral vision.
What we don't: Can't swap between lenses and expensive.

Oakley’s Sutro has been a cycling staple for years, and for good reason, too. Oakley nails the fine details of a well-rounded pair of cycling specs, from the long arms that slide effortlessly under a helmet to the full-coverage shield with low side lenses that offer excellent peripheral vision. Material quality is high, too: Grippy rubber nose pads hold up well to sweat, and the polycarbonate lenses won’t shatter if you crash. Like Smith's Chromapop, Oakley's Prizm lens coating improves clarity by enhancing certain colors and muting overpowering ones. We recommend choosing the Prizm Road lenses (which enhance blues and green) for identifying potholes, or the Road Black lenses for road riding, which block glare and enhance yellow and white road lines. And while the Sutros are listed as a “one size fits all,” Oakley also offers the Sutro S for smaller faces, as well as low-bridge versions.

Truth be told, we almost crowned Tifosi’s Stash over the Sutros—they’re $100 cheaper, come with adjustable arms, and have a sporty, tech-forward vibe. But Oakley takes the edge in durability and lens quality. Our gripes? Unlike the Wildcats, Sutro’s lenses can’t be swapped out, so if you want multiple lenses for varying conditions, you’ll have to invest in a few models. We also wish the Sutros had adjustable arms (like the Stash) so we can dial in a better fit. Still, the Sutros are hard to beat: They look sharp, feel solid, and perform whether you’re grinding up climbs or bombing descents.
See the Oakley Sutro

Best Sunglasses for Climbing

6. Ombraz Viale ($140)

Frame size: One size
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: Yes
What we like: Adjustable cord keeps sunglasses from slipping off face; premium optics and durability.
What we don't: Tough to get the fit just right and has a tendency to fog up.

The last thing a climber needs is their sunglasses taking a fall, especially one that spans a rope length or more. Ombraz solves this issue with an arm-free design, replacing a traditional frame with an adjustable cord that secures the shades to your face. Once properly adjusted, they’re nearly impossible to knock off, and when the sun sets, the cord can be loosened into a built-in lanyard. No arms also means fewer break points and a svelte package that slips easily into pants and backpack pockets. Ombraz doesn’t quite have the extensive portfolio as other brands here, but their line of six models has a style for almost everyone—we like the classy round-lens Viale the best.

To be sure, these sunnies do come with a learning curve: Dialing in fit takes some trial and error. We’ve also had some issues with our pair fogging up on high-output pursuits, especially when overtightened. To help combat this issue, Ombraz offers a nose pad riser ($30) that boosts airflow and can provide additional comfort for those with low bridges. At $140, the Viales aren’t exactly cheap, but the Carl Zeiss lenses offer premium clarity—ideal for seeing details on the wall—and scratch resistance that holds up well to rock abrasion. Lastly, we’d be remiss not to shout out Ombraz for their environmental efforts: They plant 20 mangrove trees for every pair sold, which, at the time of publishing, has amounted to over 2 million trees.
See the Ombraz Viale

More of Our Favorite Sunglasses

7. Smith Wander ($205-$215)

Frame size: Medium
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: Yes
What we like: A stylish casual crossover design with modest performance touch points. 
What we don't: Leans perhaps too casual.

Smith’s Wander sunglasses have been one of our go-tos of late, for everything from hikes and rock climbing to errands around town. Their round lenses and keyhole bridge strike a timeless and versatile look. We’re especially fond of the tortoise frame and rose gold mirror lenses, which offer a pleasant feminine pop, but the Wanders are also available in blue, black, and green. Like the Lowdowns above, the Wanders don’t have any specific technical appeal, but they do have a grippy nose pad that holds firm despite sweat, and we haven’t had any fogging issues yet. As expected, the ChromaPop lenses deliver sharp optics which we relished on a recent backpacking trip in Wyoming’s Wind River range.

However, Wanders definitely lean more lifestyle than performance. They’ve held up well on moderate runs, but we did notice some bounce on the downhill. We’re also disappointed to see that such an expensive style doesn’t come with a hardcase. Still, durability hasn’t been a concern—we’ve tossed our pair into purses, running vests, and chalk bag pockets without any immediate damage (though we have experienced some scratching in long-term testing). The thin metal arms feel a bit flimsy, but we think they'll hold up. For low-key adventures and everyday wear, they’re a stylish and reliable pick. For a similar style at a lower price, check out Sunski’s $68 Avila.
See the Smith Wander

8. Tifosi Stash ($80)

Frame size: Medium/large
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: No
What we like: A cheaper option to the Sutro above with fit and versatility benefits.
What we don't: A sportier look and doesn't have Oakley's premium optics.

Tifosi is well-known for their quality yet budget-friendly eyewear, and their Stash is among our favorites for cycling. For much less, the Stash offers many of the same qualities we love in the Oakley Sutro above, including a helmet-compatible fit and protective shield lens. Though, we prefer the Stash’s adjustable nosepads and arms, which allow for a tailored fit, and the open-frame top that prevents fogging on steep ascents. Their lens change system is easier to use than the Wildcat’s above, and additional lenses cost just $15. The photochromic lens has been our favorite for shoulder season beachside rides (46-13% VLT for the Clarion Blue lens). Tifosi also gives you the chance to “build your own” Stash by offering custom colors for the frames, arms, and lenses. 

Besides price, the main difference between the Tifosis and the Oakleys is style. While the Sutros boast a more modern, chic flare, the Stash’s lean more sporty. The Stash doesn’t have as big of a lens either, and the wrap-around style positions them closer to the face. If style is a concern, Tifosi’s Moab ($80) is a closer match to the Sutro. You also give up Oakley’s Prizm lens tech, which does a better job with color contrast and clarity than the Tifosi’s. And although we have yet to break our pair, the Stash’s frames do feel flimsier—we’ve been especially careful not to bend the arms too far. A drop in durability is to be expected with a more budget design. Still, for the performance and price, the Stash is a clear value. 
See the Tifosi Stash

9. Knockaround Premiums Sport ($38)

Frame size: Medium/small
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: Yes
What we like: A more durable budget choice than the Goodrs above.
What we don't: A little bit pricier than the Goodrs and ft narrower.

The Goodr OGs above are our top budget pick, but Knockaround’s Premiums are another solid, wallet-friendly choice. Their classic Premiums line starts at $35, but we recommend spending the extra $3 for the Premiums Sport, which add a grippy rubber nose pad. Design-wise, they’re similar to the Goodrs—semi-round frame with a wide range of colorways and lens tints. Both the standard and sport models are polarized and offer full UV400 protection. And if the Premiums aren’t your style, Knockaround also offers shields, aviators, and even a custom design tool to build your own pair.

The differences between the Goodrs and Knockarounds are subtle, but noticeable. The OGs have a tackier-feeling frame that stays put a bit better during sweaty activities, but the Premiums feel slightly more rigid, and their polycarbonate lenses are more durable compared to Goodr's TAC lenses. In side-by-side testing, we found the Premiums narrower around the nose (a good or bad thing depending on your face shape). The nose pad on the Premium Sport is a nice bonus, but the price bump over the Goodrs might matter if you're sticking to a strict budget. If you’re torn, it’s not a bad idea to grab one of each—together, they still cost less than most single pairs on this list.
See the Knockaround Premiums Sport

10. Vallon Heron Glacier ($150)

Frame size: One size
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: No
What we like: A vintage-style glacier goggle with modern lens tech.
What we don't: Side shields restrict air flow and no photochromic lens option.

If you’re feeling nostalgic for old-school glacier goggles but want modern performance, look no further than Vallon’s Heron Glacier. As the brand’s original product (now in its fourth edition), the Heron has been refined over time to offer an impressive balance of performance, style, and price. For the price, you get a shatterproof polycarbonate lens with a sharp anti-reflective mirror coating and full UV400 protection—essential for glacier travel—and the leather side shields and removable bridge piece block out peripheral rays without compromising aesthetics. We most recently took the Herons on a winter ascent of Pacific Peak in Colorado in full sun, and they performed beautifully.

The Heron Glacier is one of the lower priced true mountain eyewear options. Still, if you’re willing to pay more, Smith’s Venture glasses offer better ventilation, photochromic lens options, and ChromaPop clarity. In testing, we found that the Heron has a tendency to fog up when working hard in humid or variable conditions, and the leather side shields just don’t afford as much ventilation as other glasses we’ve tested. But if you’re after a true mountain goggle that looks sharp at basecamp and performs high above it at an approachable price, the Heron Glacier is a compelling choice. Vallon also offers the Heron in other environment-specific styles: Ocean (with polarized lenses), Mountain, and Desert (both with a lower VLT than the Glacier). 
See The Vallon Heron Glacier

11. Sunski Tera ($98)

Frame size: Medium
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: Yes
What we like: A stylish, do-it-all pair of sunglasses at a reasonable price.
What we don't: Not a performance or durability stand-out.

If the price of Smith’s Lowdown above has you gasping, Sunski’s Vera sunglasses offer a solid, lower-cost alternative. Like the Lowdowns, the Veras have a nice blend of performance features and style points with their polarized lenses, grippy no-slip nose pads, and a semi-round frame. They also come with removable magnetic side shields that boost sun protection in vulnerable environments. You get your pick of 5 colors and lens tints, including their super dark Black Silver Cat 4 which has a VLT of 6.3%—a great choice for snow sports and glacier travel. 

Opting for a cheaper lens inherently comes with downsides, and the main sacrifices you make in going with the Veras over the Lowdowns is lens clarity. Simply put, nothing cuts it quite like ChromaPop. We also found that the lenses were more prone to scratching and the sunshields are quite fragile. The Veras have a snugger fit than the Lowdowns, which could be a positive or negative attribute depending on your face shape—our tester thought they fit more like an old-school pair of glacier goggles than a modern sunny. But if you're on the hunt for a mid-range apir of sunglasses that provide plenty of protection for skiing, hiking, and trail running and are also stylish enough for casual use, Sunskis are hard to beat. If you're looking for a different style and slightly more technical appeal, check out Sunski's Treelines below.
See the Sunski Tera

12. POC Devour Glacial ($240)

Frame size: One size
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: No
What we like: Premium shield purpose-built for snow sports.
What we don't: More expensive than the Wildcats, bulkier frame, and only two lens options.

Going toe-to-toe with Smith’s Wildcats above is POC’s Devour Glacial shields. The two bring similar performance features to the table: full-coverage lens with a wide field of view, a quick-change lens system, and an included spare clear lens. While they lack Smith’s renowned optics, their premium Carl Zeiss lenses still offer full UVA/UVB protection and a Ri-Pel coating that protects them from dirt, sweat, and water. Adjustable nose pieces and temples let you dial in the fit, and built-in ventilation along the frame helps keep fogging at bay during high-output activities. 

Why do we rank the Devour Glacier below the Wildcats? For starters, they’re more expensive, and the lens options are limited. At the time of publishing, there’s just two choices: the lower VLT Sunny Gold and super dark Sunny Grey Cat. 3. We also prefer the Wildcat’s sleeker silhouette—the Devour’s Grilamid frame is durable and lightweight but skews more goggle-like in appearance. That said, if you like the look, POC offers a bike-specific version of the Devour as well, with a slimmer frame and trail-tuned optics that enhance greens and browns on the ride.
See the POC Devour Glacial

13. Smith Venture ($245)

Frame size: Medium
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: Available
What we like: A modern take on a traditional glacier goggle with Smith's optics to boot.
What we don't: Very pricey with little casual appeal.

Smith’s Wildcat may be our top pick for snow sports, but if you’re eyeing glacier travel or high-alpine objectives, the Smith Venture offers a more modern take on a traditional glacier goggle. The ChromaPop glacier photochromic copper mirror lenses (7-45% VLT) are built for intense sunlight and shifting conditions, while anti-fog and hydrophobic coatings keep smudges and moisture in check. Comfort is a highlight thanks to soft, bio-based frames, grippy nose pads, and a medium fit that works well for most faces. The side shields and nose pieces are also removable, giving the Venture a bit more versatility off-snow. And as a plus, they come with a hard case and removable retainer strap, which offers a bit more security in technical situations.

Don’t let the stylish round lenses fool you, the Ventures are definitely technical. Even just a bit of UV exposure can trigger the darkest VLT, making them overkill for most casual outdoor adventures. The Ventures are the priciest pair of sunnies on this list. While we haven’t experienced any durability issues or early testing, we don’t think the side shield attachment points are the most confidence-inspiring (the small, plastic nubs feel somewhat prone to breaking off with prolonged or rough use). Nonetheless, we’re excited to test these specs on some spring and summer mountaineering objectives, and we’ll be sure to update this review with our notes when we do. 
See the Smith Venture

14. Sunski Treeline ($98)

Frame size: Medium
Lens materials: Polycarbonate
Polarized: Yes
What we like: An affordable pair of glacier goggles with a super dark lens.
What we don't: Bulky and not as premium as Smith or Vallon's offerings.

Sunski’s lineup continues to impress, and the Treeline is among their more technical offerings. It’s a budget-friendly alternative to pricier glacier glasses like the Smith Venture and Vallon Heron. The Treeline’s darkest Bronze Cat 4 lens (5.37% VLT) actually outperforms the Venture in sun-blocking power, making them an ideal companion for mountaineering and backcountry skiing. Removable side and nose shields add extra protection, and the lightweight aviator-inspired frames are durable enough to survive touch treatment in a pack. If you want Venture-level function without the price tag, the Treeline is a compelling option.

That said, there are reasons it ranks just below the Venture. To start, Sunski doesn’t offer a photochromic lens, so you’d need multiple pairs for varying light. And while Sunski’s Helio lenses offer decent clarity, they don’t quite match the crispness of Smith’s ChromaPop. We also found the Treeline’s fit bulkier—it sat farther off the face and felt less streamlined. And purely on aesthetics, we prefer the Venture’s understated style; the Treeline’s aviator-hybrid look feels caught in between. Still, if all you need is solid, super-dark protection for high-alpine use, the Treeline punches well above its price.
See the Sunski Treeline

 

15. Detour Eminence ($40)

Frame size: Large
Lens materials: 
Polarized: Yes
What we like: An affordable pair of sunnies for those with big heads.
What we don't: Cheap build and lens quality.

Detour certainly doesn’t have the household recognition of the Smith, Oakley, and other premium designs on this list—and neither does it have the fun budget recognition of Goodr or Knockaround—but we like them for one main reason: They’re a great choice for our large-headed friends. In fact, Detour has a relatively comprehensive line of extra-large sunnies that have gained a niche following over the years. Our favorites are the Eminence, with design similar to that of the Lowdown 2s above, but an easier-to-swallow price. Like the other sub-$50 glasses here, the Eminence glasses don’t boast a long list of features, but they are polarized, UV400-protective, and have impact resistant lenses. At the time of publishing, you can pick between 15 different colors for the Eminence (plus, one clear lens and one blue light-blocking lens). 

While we love Detour’s mission, online presence, and affordable line of sunnies, snow goggles, and motocross lenses, we think the finish of their glasses isn’t quite up to snuff with some of the other options. The materials and build quality aren't as premium as the Sunski or Goodr options, and we think that even their regular (non-XL) options feel large and unwieldy. Comfort could also be better: the basic plastic arms can start to dig in over time. Still, for large-headed wearers in need of an affordable, everyday pair, the Eminence is worth a look.
See the Detour Eminence

Sport Sunglasses Comparison Table

About Our Testing Process

Whether we’re headed out for a neighborhood jog or gearing up for a multi-day backcountry trek, sunglasses are always a part of our kit. The list above reflects years of hands-on testing by the runners, hikers, skiers, climbers, and cyclists in Switchback’s Team. Editor Maddie Downie first refined the picks for 2025, curating standout options across a range of outdoor sports. As a daily glasses-wearer and avid adventurer, Maddie has high standards when it comes to eyewear, shaped by years of backcountry skiing, backpacking, and climbing in Washington’s backcountry.

When we test sports sunglasses, our main focus is performance optics. Fit and style are a bit more subjective (largely dependent on individual taste and face and head shape), but we dig deep into ventilation, coverage, lens tech (like polarization and photochromics), and how well each pair handles real-world conditions. For high-output activities like running or biking, we look for lenses that stay clear and frames that stay put. On snow or water, UV protection and glare reduction are key. We’re also sure to note any concerns we have with the material quality or durability of each pair after long-term testing. Finally, since sunglasses tech is constantly changing, we’ve slotted this guide into a strict update schedule to ensure we’re providing the most up-to-date overview of the current market. 
 

Sunglasses Buying Advice

• Sport-Specific Considerations
  • Running
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Snowsports
  • Watersports
  • Climbing
• Fit
• Shape
• Lens Materials
• Lens Color
• VLT
• Polarization
• Prescription Lenses
• Frame Materials and Features
• Men's vs. Women's Sunglasses
   

Sports-Specific Considerations

The list above breaks down our top choices for outdoor sports like running, biking, hiking, skiing, and climbing. While a basic pair of sunglasses can work for general outdoor use, certain features—ventilation, frame shape, and lens tech—benefit recreation in specific environments. Below we break down the features that are most important when considering an activity-specific pair of sunglasses. 

Running
For runners, the two key features to look for are ventilation and fit. Sunglasses that don’t vent well will fog up fast once your pace picks up. Look for models that promote airflow, like frames that sit slightly away from the face or shields with dedicated vents. You’ll also want to make sure your sunglasses fit securely on your face: If they’re too loose, they’ll likely slide down or bounce on your face. Julbo’s Ultimate Reactiv sunglasses are our favorite for this reason: With side ventilation and adjustable nose and arms, we found the Ultimates both comfortable and fog-free in testing.
 

While lens tech isn’t critical for running, it can certainly make a difference. Brown lenses help trail runners spot contrast and detail, while polarized lenses are great for cutting down road glare. And when we can we usually choose photochromic lenses for dynamic clarity in shifting light. Still, don’t stress if you want to keep it simple: No-frills designs like Goodr’s OG or Smith’s Wander work fine too. 

Hiking
We look for similar qualities in hiking sunglasses as we do running ones. They should vent well and fit securely. Hikers can also benefit from polarized lenses or varying color tints depending on their situation (read more on color below). We like hiking mainly for the views, hence why our top choice—Smith’s Lowdown 2 Series—features ChromaPop lens technology that offers high end clarity and color optics. Frame durability is important in most outdoor sports as well, but if you’re planning on tossing your sunnies in your backpack when you don’t need ‘em, be sure their frames are durable and lenses are resistant to scratching. 
 

Cycling
Technology starts to matter more in activities like cycling, skiing, paddling, and climbing. Starting with cycling, you’ll likely want a full-coverage shield that protects against wind, bugs, rain, and UV. Shields—like Oakley’s Sutro—also provide a wide field of vision that standard sunglasses cannot. Cycling sunnines should also fit easily under your bike helmet—we like the open frame design on the Tifosi Stash for this reason—and fit snugly and comfortably on your face. If you’re planning on sticking to the trails, brown-tinted lenses will be best for seeing fine details, and road cyclists might prefer a grey tint that pops lane lines. We like a photochromic lens in either situation, but polarization is more important for cyclists that need to reduce road glare. A final consideration is lens material: In the case of a fall, you’ll want to make sure your lenses won’t shatter, so opting for a break-resistant polycarbonate lens is the best choice.
 

Snowsports
Just like with cycling, shields are ideal for snowsports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Ventilation is critical in high-output activities like cross country skiing, but we’ve had luck with well-ventilated shields like the Smith Wildcat and POC Devour Glacial. Anti-fog treatments can add another layer of assurance for sweaty situations—the last thing you want in the backcountry is for your lenses to fog up and freeze over. Blue, green, and grey colors work best in snowy terrain as they help cut down on glare, and mirrored lenses can do the same. That said, we don’t recommend going full polarized as you’ll want to be aware of some glare to avoid icy patches on the snow. 
 

If you can’t decide between a pair of ski goggles and sunglasses, there are a few factors to consider. Sunglasses offer greater ventilation, but goggles are warmer, more protective against blizzard conditions, and offer greater impact protection than sunglasses. In most cases, we’ll stick with goggles when resort skiing, but wear our sunglasses on backcountry ski missions.

Watersports
For paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, and canoeing, protection for glare is key. Most watersports-specific sunglasses are polarized and come in wrap-around styles that protect all of the eye from UV rays. Ventilation isn’t the most important factor here, but we do prefer an open-bottom frame that prevents water from pooling on the lens. Blue, mirrored lenses offer the sharpest contrast for bright and sunny days, but you can get away with most colors other than grey, as they provide the least contrast. 
 

Rock Climbing
Rock climbers can also get away with a wide range of sunnines—so long as they’re comfortable and won’t fall off your face, style and optics is mostly up to preference. Ombraz’s cord sunglasses are perhaps the most secure on this list, and they’re easy to hang around your neck. Climbers may want to consider a brown lens that can pick up greater detail on the rock, and a photochromic lens that can adapt to shifting light conditions as you climb through the day. Lastly, we also prefer a less-bulky frame that won’t get in the way when attempting tricky moves.
 

Fit

Above all, your sunglasses should be comfortable. Too small, and they’ll pinch your nose or irritate your ears. Too big, and they’ll slip down your face. A proper fit should distribute weight evenly between your nose and ears and remain on the bridge of your nose when you move your head. While we suggest trying on sunglasses before purchasing, you can measure the width of your face— cheekbone to cheekbone— and compare that number to the width spec to get an idea of how they fit. Adjustable nose pads and arms can also help dial in an ideal fit. 
 

Bridge shape matters too. Those with a high bridge nose— one that’s higher and more prominent— or a low bridge nose— lower and flatter against the face— may find it tricky to find a pair of sunglasses that fit. Some models offer low-bridge fits, but high-bridge options are generally less common. Some manufacturers like Ombraz offer nose pad adapters that provide a low-bridge fit or offer narrow size options.

Shape

For the most part, the style of your sunglasses is up to personal preference, but some shapes offer different benefits over others. Shields, for example, are one of the more popular choices for snowsports and cycling due to their wide field of view and full-face protection. Many shields have a lens-change system that makes it possible to swap out lenses in varying conditions. That said, there’s a strong case to be made for traditional sunglasses: They’re generally lighter weight, cheaper, and have a stronger casual appeal. And some larger-lens models, like Smith’s Venture or Vallon’s Heron, still offer good protection without going full shield.
 

Lens Materials

Most sports sunglasses use polycarbonate lenses, which are lightweight, impact-resistant, and highly UV protectant. They can’t match glass in clarity or scratch resistance, but they’re safer and more practical for active use. In our opinion, polycarbonate lenses offer the most benefit for outdoor sports, and the greatest variety in terms of features and price: Spend up for greater optics (such as Smith’s ChromaPop tech), or keep things simple for a sub-$100 price tag.
 

A few other materials can be found in the list above. Trivex lenses, like those found on Julbo’s Ultimate Reactiv, have similar benefits to polycarbonate but are a touch lighter weight (and are often pricer). Ombraz’s Viales feature polyamide lenses which are also lightweight and very UV-resistant, but have slightly less impact resistance than polycarbonate. Triacitate Cellulose (TAC) lenses are often found on budget models because they are cheaper to manufacture, but they lack the inherent durability and UV protection of polycarbonate lenses (anti-scratch and UV coatings must be applied).

Lens Color

In most cases, you get a choice of lens color upon purchase. This choice not only affects the style of your glasses, but the optical quality. Each color has its benefits and drawbacks in certain environments. Below we detail the pros and cons of each color, as well as their best uses.

Brown/Red:
Pros: Heightened contrast and sharper vision in both sunny and overcast conditions
Cons: Darker shades are needed for bright conditions, doesn’t cut glare as well as grey lenses, can cause significant color distortions
Best for: Rock climbing, hiking, gravel or mountain biking

Yellow/Orange:
Pros: Enhances contrast in overcast and low light conditions
Cons: Not dark enough for bright days or high-glare environments (water, road, and snowsports)
Best for: Hiking or recreating in cloudy conditions
 

Green:
Pros: Versatile, happy medium between grey and brown lenses. Offers some contrast while still being dark enough for bright days
Cons: Too general for specialized sports use
Best for: overcast snowsports, hiking

Blue:
Pros: Mitigate harsh glare from water or snow, sharpens details and color
Cons: Anti-glare properties make it tough to see ice, distorts color significantly
Best for: Watersports

Grey/Black: 
Pros: Blocks out harsh light (go darker for more protection) cuts glare and reduces eye strain, preserves natural color perception
Cons: Too dark for low-light days
Best for: Snowsports, glacier travel, road biking
 

VLT

VLT—or visible light transmission—refers to the amount of light that reaches your eyes through your sunglass’s lenses. This is not only affected by the darkness of your lens, but the color, thickness, coatings, and lens materials used. Most manufacturers include a VLT percentage spec for each lens offered, and in the case of photochromic lenses, a VLT range. The lower the VLT, the less light reaches your eye; the higher the VLT, the more light reaches your eye. Here’s a general guide to follow:

0-20% VLT: Best for very bright conditions
21-40%: Happy medium for general use
40+%: Best for low-light or overcast conditions
 

Some manufacturers group their lenses into categories according to the ISO 8980-3 standard. Many glacier and snowsports sunglasses have Category 4 or 3 designations (3-8% and 8-18% VLT respectively), such as Sunski’s Tera Silver Cat 4 lens (6.3% VLT). Category 2 covers the more general range of 18-43%. Category 1 and 0 cover minimally-tinted and clear lenses with 43-80% and 80-100% VLT ranges respectively. 

Polarization

Polarization is added onto the lens as a coating during manufacturing, and it reduces glare on horizontal surfaces like roads, snow, and water. While there are many reasons to opt for a polarized lens (benefits include reduced eye strain, 100% UV protection, and improved clarity) be aware that polarization can alter depth perception and block glare necessary for identifying ice on roads or snowy slopes. In general, we don’t recommend polarized sunglasses for precision-based sports like skiing, climbing, and mountain biking, but road cyclists and those participating in watersports can benefit greatly from the extra glare protection.
 

Coatings

Polarization is just one kind of coating that a pair of sunglasses can have, but modern sports sunglasses usually boast a number of protective coatings that preserve their durability. For starters, scratch-resistant coatings help prevent damage when your shades get tossed in a pack or dropped. Hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings repel water, sweat, and oil to keep your lenses clear. Finally, anti-reflective and mirrored coatings also reduce glare like polarization does, but they work better in overcast conditions by reflecting light instead of filtering it. 
 

Prescription Lenses

For those who wear corrective glasses in their daily life, prescription sunglasses can be a must. Some brands, like Ombraz, offer custom Rx lenses made specifically for their frames. Others provide models with clip-in Rx inserts. We've also had good experiences with third-party options, such as Sved Optical, which makes inserts compatible with models like the Smith Wildcat above. That said, we usually recommend going with full prescription lenses over inserts. Clip-ins can trap moisture between layers and fog up during high-output activities.
 

Frame Materials and Features

Like lenses, sunglasses frames come in a variety of materials each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Plastic materials such as polycarbonate, Grilamid, acetate, and nylon are most popular among sports sunglasses for their great strength-to-weight ratio. Metal frames, such as stainless steel, titanium, or aluminum are less common because they are generally heavier and pricier, but do offer more precise fit adjustments (the metal can be bent). 
 

As mentioned above, many premium sports sunglasses feature adjustable arms and nose pads helpful in dialing in a more personalized fit, such as Smith’s Wildcat and Julbo’s Ultimate Reactiv. At minimum, we recommend choosing frames with rubberized nose pads to help prevent slipping. If you’re wearing a helmet (for biking or skiing), frame thickness matters—a slimmer or open frame, like the Tifosi Stash, fits better under a helmet and allows for better airflow.

Weight

While the weight of a pair of sunglasses won’t make or break your kit, it should be considered when it comes to fit. Heavier sunglasses are more likely to slide down your face in use, which can be distracting in high-output or bouncy activities like running. That said, a well-fitting heavier pair—with the right nose pads and arms—can still perform just fine. For context, the heaviest models on our list (like Smith’s Venture and POC’s Devour Glacial) are only about 0.6 ouncesheavier than the lightest options (Ombraz’s Viale and Goodr’s OG at 0.8 oz), so the difference isn’t huge—but it can matter when every bit of comfort counts.
 

Accessories

Most sunglasses come with a hard or soft case (sometimes both) to store the glasses and any extra lenses—even budget-friendly pairs like Goodr’s $25 sunnies include a soft case. Some designs go even further, adding side shields or a nose guard Premium models often go further, adding side shields or a nose guard for extra protection. This is more common among glacier goggles like Smith’s Venture and Vallon’s Heron, though more versatile models like Sunski’s Tera also have shields. It’s also smart to pick up a sunglasses retainer, especially if you're active or tend to take your shades off often. We’re fans of Chums for simple, reliable options.
 

Men’s vs. Women’s Sunglasses

While many sunglasses are marketed as men’s or women’s, most styles can be worn by anyone—it really comes down to fit and personal preference. Women’s models often have rounder shapes and come in more traditionally feminine colors (we see a lot of women’s sunglasses with a tortoiseshell colorway), while men’s tend to be larger with higher bridge fits. That said, the key factor is comfort. Pick what fits your face and feels right—labels aside.
 

Casual vs. Sports Sunglasses

Most of the sunglasses on this list can be worn casually, but some designs lean more technical. For example, shield-style models—like Tifosi’s sporty Stash—don’t blend in as easily off the trail. And ultra-dark lenses, like Sunski’s Silver Cat 4 (6.3% VLT), are too dark for everyday wear and can even be unsafe for driving. We also don’t recommend blue, green, or red tints behind the wheel, as they can distort color perception. That said, if they’re comfortable and you’re wearing them in the right setting, pretty much every pair on this list can pull double duty between sport and daily life.
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