Best Golf Sunglasses 2023: Top 6 Picks

Subpar golf sunglasses have a short lifespan.

They can also fail to properly protect your eyes against the sun….ruining the actual purpose of wearing them. 

The glare also affects your shots and adds additional damage to your eyes.

Higher-quality golf sunglasses ensure you see where your shot goes (how often do you lose it in the air!). The lie of the golf ball is also easier to see.

This adds to the enjoyment of the round. Enjoyment (usually) equals better golf and lower scores.

Our experts rigorously tested and analyzed more than 27 golf sunglasses before shortlisting the best ones featured in this review.

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a newbie starting out, our analysis revolving around the durability, UV protection, and comfort of the sunglasses has covered you.

Read on and discover which golf sunglasses will suit you best based on your unique requirements. We have you covered if you are on a budget too.

And if you’re in a rush, you can quickly browse our top six picks.

Best Golf Sunglasses

Golfible Picks:

Editor’s Choice: Oakley Men’s Flak 2.0 XL Sunglasses (click to see)

Best Golf Sunglasses on a Budget: Tifosi Tyrant 2.0 Sunglasses (click to see)

Best golf sunglasses for putting/chipping: Callaway Sungear Kite Golf Sunglasses (click to see)

Best value polarized golf sunglasses: Under Armour Unisex (click to see)
Most comfortable golf sunglasses: Electric California Knoxville Sunglasses (click to see)
Best Women’s golf sunglasses: Tifosi Women’s Alpe 2.0 Sunglasses (click to see)

Golf Sunglasses Product Specification Comparison

Golf SunglassesOakley Men’s Flak 2.0 XL SunglassesTifosi Tyrant 2.0 SunglassesCallaway Sungear Kite Golf SunglassesUnder Armour UnisexElectric California Knoxville SunglassesTifosi Women’s Alpe 2.0 Sunglasses
Our Rating9.4/10
Editor’s Choice
8.8/10
Best Golf Sunglasses on a Budget
9.1/10
Best golf sunglasses for putting/ chipping
9.1/10
Best value polarized golf sunglasses
9.2/10
Most comfortable golf sunglasses
9.3/10
Best Women’s golf sunglasses
PricingJump To Pricing SectionJump To Pricing SectionJump To Pricing SectionJump To Pricing SectionJump To Pricing SectionJump To Pricing Section
Lens MaterialPlutonite/PolycarbonateShatterproof PolycarbonateN/APolycarbonatePolycarbonateShatterproof Polycarbonate
Lens Tints/ColorsMultiple Colorways AvailableClarion Red, AC Red, Clear, Smoke, Green, Clarion Blue, Light Night, Grey, BrownGreen, Blue, Grey, BrownBlue, GreyGrey, Grey, Blue, Bronze, SilverBrown Gradient, Brown, Smoke,
Lens Width59mm68mmN/A66mmN/A61mm
Len Technology AvailablePolarized, PhotochromicPolarized, Fototec™P2X PolarizedPolarizedPolarizedPolarized
Protective Coatings100% UV Protection, Anti-ReflectiveUV Protection, Anti-Reflective, Anti-Fog100% UVA/B/C Protection, Mirror100% UVA/B/C Protection, Smudge/Scratch Resistant (Multiflection™)100% UV protection, 98% Blue-Light Protection100% UVA/B Protection
Frame MaterialPolycarbonate (O Matter™)Grilamid TR-90 NylonPlasticGrilamid, TitaniumGrilamidGrilamid TR-90
Fit/SizesSmall, Medium, LargeSmall, MediumMedium, LargeOne Size Fits AllMedium, LargeExtra Small – Medium
Included AccessoriesHard Case, Microfiber BagZippered Hardshell Case, Microfiber Cleaning BagLens Cloth, Carry Pounch, Hard CaseSoft CaseRepreve Microfiber Sunglass BagZippered Hardshell Case, Microfiber Cleaning Bag
Adjustable Ear/Nose PiecesYesYesYesYesNoYes
Grip MaterialUnobtanium® Nose/Ear PieceHydrophilic Rubber Nose/Ear PieceHydrophilic Megol Temple TipsCo-Molded No-Slip Rubber Nose/Ear PiecePerformance Nose/Temple GripsHydrophilic Rubber Nose/Ear Piece
WarrantyLifetime WarrantyLifetime Warranty2-Years WarrantyLifetime WarrantyLimited Lifetime WarrantyLifetime Warranty
Weight26 Grams24 Grams23 Grams68 Grams33 Grams21 Grams
Read ReviewJump To Oakley Men’s Flak 2.0 XL Sunglasses ReviewJump To Tifosi Tyrant 2.0 Sunglasses ReviewJump To Callaway Sungear Kite Golf Sunglasses ReviewJump To Under Armour Unisex ReviewJump To Electric California Knoxville Sunglasses ReviewJump To Tifosi Women’s Alpe 2.0 Sunglasses Review

Oakley Men’s Flak 2.0 XL Rectangular Sunglasses

Editor’s Choice

Rating: 9.4 /10

Pros

  • Trusted brand
  • Good support and aftersales service
  • Enhanced lens coverage
  • XYZ High Definition Optics provide accuracy and clarity across the entire lens

Cons

  • More expensive than some other options
  • Not all golfers are a fan of the rectangular design

These are an extremely popular option from leading sunglass manufacturer Oakley. They were a natural and easy pick for our editor’s choice.

As you would expect from Oakley, the XL Flak 2.0 sunglasses are durable. This is backed by the Oakley lifetime warranty. These are not the cheapest sunglasses for golf but this should give you peace of mind that they are good quality and that Oakley has your back should anything go wrong.

They are considered by most to be lightweight and comfortable and very few can deny they are stylish, as you would expect from Oakley. The standard sized frames will fit most people snugly. Unobtainium is used for the ear socks and nosepieces and provides a quality grip.

Another Oakley patented material is the O-Matter used in the frames. This gives them comfort, strength, and durability while still being ultra-light.

For optimized clarity, the glasses have Oakley’s patented XYZ optics. The High Definition Optics give accurate clarity across the full extent of the lens including the peripheral view. The 8.75 base lens curvature affords protection from the wind and sun and also gives protection against impact. The Flak in the name is a reference to the Flak Jacket range and emphasizes the coverage and protection offered by the sunglasses.


Tifosi Tyrant 2.0 Sunglasses

Best golf sunglasses on a budget

Rating: 8.8 /10

Tyrant version 2.0 polarized sunglasses from Tifosi for golfers.
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Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Light and comfortable
  • Decent durability
  • Adjustable nose pieces and earpieces
  • Vented lenses for improved airflow

Cons

  • Some users found the field of vision limited
  • A few golfers found them a bit tight

These sunglasses are popular with golfers and are great value for money. The frame construction is durable and light Grilamid TR-90 nylon with shatterproof polycarbonate lenses. The decentered lenses prevent distortion for better clarity. Most find the style and looks to be up there with the best on the market.  

The frames, apart from being light, are tough and resistant to UV damage and chemicals. Most find them to be comfortable.

Comfort is enhanced by the hydrophilic rubber nose pieces which can be adjusted according to personal preference. Even hot days with a bit of sweat should see the sunglasses griping effectively without discomfort. The earpieces are made from the same material and help to keep the Tifosi Tyrant 2.0 Sunglasses comfortable and secure.

Another feature that improves the comfort of these sunglasses is the vented lenses. This allows for better airflow to prevent them from fogging up and keeping you cool at the same time.


Callaway Sungear Kite Golf Sunglasses

Best golf sunglasses for putting/chipping

Rating: 9.1 /10

Pros

  • Specifically designed for golfers
  • Comfortable and effective fit
  • Helps most with depth perception
  • Good adjustability

Cons

  • Some found them to be a bit chunky
  • Possibly not ideal on very bright days

Callaway is known for quality equipment so it is no surprise that their sunglasses are top-notch. Given that they were specifically designed for golf they have been optimized for conditions on the course. Many find that these glasses help them with their chipping and putting in particular. 

They fit super comfortably and securely thanks to the Hydrophilic Megon Temple tips. The adjustable Megon nose pads offer a range of fitting options to further enhance comfort and stability. The frame is tortoise plastic and boasts a Gray Lens with Green Mirror and the tortoise tip.

Another major advantage is that despite protecting your eyes and reducing strain the Kite allows in double the amount of light when compared to similar sunglasses. This, most find, helps with depth perception.

The Callaway Sungear Kite Golf Sunglasses give 100-percent protection against UVA rays and come with a hard case, a carry pouch, a hanging clip, and a lens cloth. These are popular sunglasses that most golfers had only good things to say about.


Under Armour Unisex UA Igniter

Best value polarized golf sunglasses

Rating: 9.1 /10

Igniter 2.0 Rectangular Unisex Golf Sunglasses from Under Armour on grass.
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Pros

  • Effective polarized lenses
  • Good durability
  • Comfortable fit
  • Good protection

Cons

  • Not all golfers enjoy the style
  • Some the frames to have a cheap feel

These were our top pick for polarized sunglasses but that is not the only outstanding feature. They are also extremely durable. They feature Grilamid frames with quality polarized polycarbonate black/gray lenses. The lenses offer full protection against damaging UVA/B/C rays. The polarized lenses effectively reduce glare and are particularly useful around water or on a wet golf course.

The lenses are coated in water-repelling Multiflection™ which also is smudge and scratch-resistant. They should reduce eye-strain and improve clarity in many environments. 

The frames are light and durable thanks to the Grilamid and titanium build.  This also makes them super-strong and durable. The three-point nose pad is adjustable for a secure and comfortable fit. Cushion hinges will reduce shock further improving the durability and comfort.

The glasses come with a soft case.


Electric California Knoxville Sunglasses

Most comfortable golf sunglasses

Rating: 9.2 /10

100% UV-protective Electric California Knoxville golf sunglasses against a green grass background.
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Pros

  • Ultra-comfortable
  • Suitable for a range of face shapes
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Not the cheapest option
  • Some users might prefer a non-polarized lens

These sunglasses, designed in California and made in Italy, are our top pick in the comfort category. The lightweight Grilamid Frames weigh a mere 1.1 ounces and are designed to fit securely and comfortably. They are especially handy for people with a heart, oval or square face shape. These shapes often present a problem in terms of comfort but most users agree this is not the case with the Electric California Knoxville Polarized Wayfarer Sunglasses.

While comfort is extremely important it is not the only factor to consider when evaluating sunglasses.  Another advantage of these glasses it the tough durable build.  So good is it that Electric California offers an impressive lifetime warranty. This should give you peace of mind that these are strong, well made and will last.

The optics offer 100-percent protection from UV rays and 98-percent protection against blue light. They are perfect for use in extremely bright conditions. They have an OHM Grey tint (VLT – 10%)


Tifosi Women’s Alpe 2.0 Sunglasses

Best Women’s golf sunglasses

Rating: 9.3 /10

Alpe 2.0 Golf Sunglasses for women from Tifosi on a green grass background.
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Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable
  • Adjustable hydrophilic rubber nose and earpiece
  • 100-Percent UVA/UVB protection

Cons

  • Some ladies found them to be a bit tight
  • Not ideal for very bright conditions

Most women find these to be stylish glasses that are comfortable and help reduce eye-strain and eye fatigue on the golf course. The hydrophilic rubber nose pads keep the sunglasses firmly on the face to prevent slipping and improve comfort. The earpieces are also hydrophilic rubber and adjustable for optimal performance and comfort.

The frame is lightweight and Tifosi uses quality polycarbonate lenses. These offer 100-percent protection against UVA/UVB rays.

The glasses come with a cleaning bag and a Tifosi case.

The Tifosi Women’s Alpe 2.0 sunglasses are popular and highly rated by many women. One of the few complaints is that a handful of women found them to be a bit too tight however most enjoyed the snug fit. There is a larger option available.

A few pointers when selecting the best golf sunglasses

Should I use polarized or photochromic lenses?

This is not the easiest question to answer. Both have their benefits but for some people or in certain environments, one might be more suitable than the other. Let’s start by taking a look at both options. 

  • Polarized Lenses

The main benefit of these lenses is that they are highly effective at reducing glare. This will improve your vision and reduce eye strain and fatigue. This is especially true when there is a lot of water around or even wet grass on a sunny morning.

Remember that not all polarized lenses necessarily give you protection from ultraviolet rays so check on this.

  • Photochromic Lenses

The beauty of this technology is that the lenses automatically adjust according to the brightness. This makes them extremely versatile as you move from area to area or according to the time of the day and weather conditions.

Both are useful and will benefit the golfer. The ideal solution will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. It is possible to get photochromic polarized sunglasses to give you the best of both worlds.

What fit should my golf sunglasses be?

Poorly fitting glasses can be frustrating, reduce protection and put you off your game. Ensure they have a good design and build and fit snugly. If you have a particularly large or small face you might need to look at glasses specifically designed for your face however most will be quite comfortable in average-sized glasses.

What does help improve fit, comfort, and protection is a wraparound design. They are secure and stop the sun from coming in from the side. Comfort and practicality are essential in good sunglasses for golf.

Features to Consider In Your Golf Sunglasses

  • Lens quality

The quality of the lens is the single most important aspect of golf sunglasses. Poor quality lenses will be inefficient and not last long. They can also cause depth perception issues which could have an adverse impact on your game. Poor lenses could potentially cause more harm to your eyes than no glasses. 

Good quality lenses will give protection, reduce eye strain and help with contrast. They will also be more durable and scratch-resistant.

  • Lens Color

There are a number of different color options for golf sunglasses and each has unique benefits and advantages. Let’s take a closer look.

Brown/Amber Lenses

The benefit of this color is that it improves the contrast between dark and light colors. Many find this color helps them see the ball more clearly against the sky and grass. This is something many golfers struggle with. It reduces the blue light waves to a large extent and often improves clarity and depth perception. They can help both with watching the ball in the air as well as when putting.

This is one of the more popular color options for golfers as it helps with contrast with less color distortion than many of the other options.

Rose/Red Lenses

This color will also improve contrast and could help you read contours, and greens better. They tend to be more effective in lower light conditions and may offer less protection and benefit on very bright days.

Gray Lenses

While this is a common sunglass lens color it is probably not ideal for golfers. While it might help some players it can make the white ball difficult to see.

Green Lenses

This color also reduces blue light waves improving contrast and clarity. They will also reduce glare. Many find it to help on the course particularly on the green.

  • Style

Style is very much a personal preference and what works for one golfer is not necessarily the same for others. Fortunately, there is a massive range of styles to choose from. What is important is that you like the look and that they are comfortable and effective.

  • Material

The quality of the material used will determine the durability, comfort, and weight of the glasses. There are a number of innovative materials that offer all of these important features and then some.

  • Durability

You want to ensure that your golf sunglasses have good durability.  Even the budget options are a fair investment and the glasses need to last and remain looking good and working well. This is especially important if you only use them on some shots and take them off frequently. Poor quality glasses will scratch or break and will not last very long.

If the glasses are shatterproof or waterproof, this will naturally increase their durability. Some, you will find, come with a lifetime warranty. This sort of commitment from the manufacturer should give you confidence that the sunglasses are well built from quality materials and designed to last.

  • Weight

The last thing you want is a heavy pair of sunglasses on your head while you are trying to play a round of golf. Provided they are sturdy and durable, the lighter the better. This will increase comfort and allow you to wear them with ease for extended periods. Fortunately, modern materials allow for strong and comfortable sunglasses that are ultra-lightweight.

  • Adjustable nose/earpieces

Having a nose and earpieces that are adjustable will improve the comfort and fit of the sunglasses. Not only will they sit more snugly on your face but they will offer more protection and increase effectiveness. A good fit will also reduce irritation and encourage you to use them more often. 

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many great options to suit all requirements and budgets. We have selected only leading options but the Oakley Men’s Flak 2.0 XL Rectangular Sunglasses stood out as the best golf sunglasses.

Oakley is a quality brand and these come with a lifetime guarantee. They are light and comfortable according to most reports and extremely durable. The grip is good so the glasses should fit snugly on your face and the quality lenses offer great protection and improved clarity. 

Consider your needs and budget in order to find the very best golf sunglasses for your needs.

FAQ

What sunglass lenses are best for golf?

Polarized brown, cinnamon, bronze, copper, and amber sunglasses are the best option for golfers, as they reduce the glare that can hit your eyes. These colors allow you to follow the ball in the air while providing excellent visibility. 

What sunglasses does Tiger Woods wear?

Tiger Woods wear Oakley sunglasses. He’s been spotted wearing various styles from the brand, including the Oakley Frogskins and the Oakley Flak Jacket. He’s also known to wear sunglasses from other brands, such as Nike Show X2 or Nike Siege 2. 

Are Polarized lenses better for golf?

Polarized lenses are better for golf because they reduce glare and help you see the ball more clearly. They also provide better contrast and depth perception, which can help you make smarter shots. And because they eliminate glare, they’re also easier on your eyes.

Why don’t Pro golfers wear sunglasses?

Most people think professional golfers don’t wear sunglasses because they want to look serious and focused. However, the real reason is that sunlight can cause glare on the golf ball, making it difficult to see. Glare can also make it difficult to read the greens.

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Author

Lawrence Smelser has been part of the Golfible writing staff since 2019 and is a freelance golf journalist. Smelser has covered the PGA Tour including the U.S. Masters with Augusta.com. He holds a journalism Bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M and a Master’s journalism degree from the University of North Texas. Learn more about our team at Golfible on our About Us page.

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