The Best Sunglasses for Outdoor Activities: A Guide
Have you ever embarked on an outdoor adventure without a good pair of sunglasses and ended up with headaches, eye strain, or even sunburned eyes? Sunglasses are more than just a must-have fashion accessory: they can also prevent long-term eye damage from the sun's harmful UV rays. In this article, we'll cover the best sunglasses for a wide range of outdoor activities and provide tips on features to consider when choosing the right pair for you.
Different types of lenses for sunglasses
Before diving into specific activities, let's look at the different types of lenses that can make a difference in your outdoor experience.
Polarized lenses are designed to reduce glare and improve clarity, making them an excellent choice for activities on the water, such as fishing and water sports; Mirror coating lenses also do a good job in reducing glare, while photochromic lenses can react to the ambient light and adjust the tint accordingly, making them a great option for those who participate in activities at different time periods of the day; Tinted lenses come in a variety of colors and can enhance contrast in different environments; while Gradient lenses are darker on top and lighter on the bottom, making them suitable for activities such as driving.
Best sunglasses for various outdoor activities
- Hiking
When you’re hiking in the great outdoors, you want a pair of sunglasses that are lightweight, secure, and provide ample coverage. Look for sunglasses with a wraparound shape and polycarbonate lenses that can handle the wear and tear of outdoor environments.
- Camping
When you're outdoors overnight, durability and versatility are important. Look for sunglasses that have a sturdy frame and offer versatility like changing out lenses, offering good coverage, and being polarized for glare reduction.
- Sightseeing
For activities like sightseeing, birdwatching, or stargazing, you don't need to worry about specialty lenses or elaborate frame designs. Choose stylish sunglasses that provide adequate protection from harmful rays and offer a comfortable fit.
- Beach Volleyball and water sports
When it comes to activities in or around the water, polarization is key to reduce glare and improve contrast. Look for lenses and frames that allow for good peripheral vision while being secure enough to stay on as you move around.
- Fishing
Ideally, sunglasses for fishing should have polarized lenses that reduce glare on the water, allowing you to see things like fish, rocks, and debris more clearly. They should also cover a wide area of the face and have a comfortable fit.
Features to consider when buying sunglasses for outdoor activities
Regardless of the activity, certain features are essential when buying sunglasses for outdoor activities. The most important is UV protection to ensure that you're not damaging your eyes with harmful rays. Durability, comfort, fit, lens color, frame material, and price range for opening up stores with good customer service are all other features that should be taken into account before making a purchase.
Polarized Sunglasses Recommended
Mirrored Sunglasses Recommended
Conclusion
In summary, outdoor enthusiasts must have sunglasses that can protect their eyes from harmful UV rays and be tailored to their outdoor activities. Choosing the best pair that offers UV protection, polarization, durability, and fits the activity does not have to be challenging. With this guide, you can confidently make a decision that will provide optimal eye protection and wearability, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor activity without worry.