When most people think of sunglasses, they imagine being outside at the beach or maybe on a beautiful hike with an amazing view. But while we all would love to be on the beach every day, we mainly use sunglasses for one thing—driving. Check out the video and information below to learn how to buy driving sunglasses and the features that make the best ones.
Table of Contents
What to Look for in Driving Sunglasses
1. Frame Technology
1.1 Fit
1.2 Grip
1.3 Coverage
1.4 Material
2. Lens Technology
2.1 Polarized
2.2 Material
2.3 Transitions Lenses
2.4 Gradient Lenses
3. What is the best color sunglass lens for driving?
4. Are polarized lenses good for driving?
5. Should I wear sunglasses while driving?
Top Driving Sunglasses
What to look for in Driving Sunglasses
Eyeglass Tyler covers everything you need to know about buying driving sunglasses in the video below. Watch or keep reading to learn more!
Frame Technology
Fit
The first thing you should do when shopping for new sunglasses is to try them on to make sure they have a comfortable fit. Some of us spend multiple hours in a car every day, so it's important that your sunglasses aren’t causing pressure on your temples. This can cause headaches or migraines. One recommendation is to look for frames with straight-back temples or a slight hook at the end.
Grip
Another feature that can be useful for driving sunglasses is rubberized nose pads and temple tips. This is not an essential feature for driving sunglasses. But if you're looking to use your sunglasses for more than just driving, then make sure to look for the rubberized temple tips and nose pads. Most brands have a hydrophilic material that gets stickier the more you sweat.
Coverage
A key feature to look for in driving sunglasses is frames with wider and taller lens designs. Also look for a wraparound design. Sunlight can enter from the side while you are driving and hinder your vision. A wraparound design or frame with a large lens will have you covered from all angles. If you prefer a casual look with a comfortable fit, then a 6-base or flat frame is the one for you.
Material
Our last feature to consider when buying driving sunglasses is the frame material. There is no perfect frame material for driving sunglasses; it's more of a personal preference. For the most comfort, look for a frame that is made of acetate. Acetate is known for its texture, patterns, and ability to hold an array of colors.
The second frame material to consider is nylon. Nylon is lightweight and flexible, making it a good choice if you have to wear sunglasses for long periods of time. Also, nylon can hold its shape under extreme conditions, making them a great pair of all-around sunglasses.
The last frame material to consider is metal. Metal frames typically don't offer a lot of wraparound designs, but they are lightweight and have thin temples for a comfortable fit.
Lens Technology
Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are a must for any pair of driving sunglasses. When you are driving, sunlight comes down and reflects off headlights, stop signs, and wet surfaces on the road. This harsh glare can blind you and make it hard to see the road in front of you. Polarized lenses allow your eyes to relax and be comfortable while you are driving.
Note that some newer vehicles have digital dashboard displays, which you may not be able to see with a polarized lens. If you get polarized lenses, be sure to check them out in your car before you head out onto the road.
Material
For lens material you have two main options: glass or polycarbonate. Glass lenses provide the best optical clarity and are the most scratch-resistant lenses. The cons of glass lenses are they are heavier and less impact-resistant. They are also difficult to get in prescription for this reason.
The perks of polycarbonate lenses are that they're lightweight and impact-resistant. The downfall of polycarbonate lenses is they scratch easier and are not as optically clear as glass lenses.
Transitions Lenses
Transition, or photochromic, lenses are a hot commodity in the optical industry, and for good reason. These lenses go from clear to dark depending on how much sunlight is hitting the lens. Unfortunately, the brand Transitions lenses aren't as effective when driving. This is because car windshields will block the UV exposure required to change the lens from clear to dark.
The best option to consider if you really want photochromic lenses are the Serengeti Drivers lenses. Serengeti's lenses react to both available light and UV light, which means they will get darker behind the windshield of a car.
Gradient Lenses
Gradient lenses start dark at the top and become lighter near the bottom. These lenses are more known as a fashion lens but they do offer value for driving sunglasses. When you are focused on the road and driving, your eyes will look through the darkest part of the lens to protect you from the sunlight. Then as you look down at the dashboard, the lens is more clear, making it easier to read the display.
What is the best color sunglass lens for driving?
Selecting the right lens color is the first step to consider when buying driving sunglasses. Typically, a neutral base color such as grey or a contrast-boosting copper base are the best routes to take. A grey base will darken your vision without enhancing the colors you see. If you prefer more contrast and color, then a copper base is a good tint.
Are Polarized Lenses Good for Driving?
Like we said above, yes! Check out the links below to learn more about how polarized sunglasses work.
What are Polarized Sunglasses?
There might be issues with digital dashboards, usually found in newer or luxury vehicles. But for the most part, polarized lenses are a great option for driving.
Should I Wear Sunglasses while Driving?
Yes, you should always wear sunglasses while driving during the daytime. Sunlight reflects off the road, stop signs, other cars, etc. making it harder to see the road in front of you. Driving requires your full attention at all times and one simple mistake could result in serious consequences. Without protection from bright sunlight, your eyes will fatigue quicker. This can result in a slower reaction time. Essentially, always keep a good pair of driving sunglasses with you.
Best Driving Sunglasses
The driving sunglasses listed below are here to show you a few things in mind when making your purchase. These are only a few of our recommendations as we have a complete guide to the best driving sunglasses of 2021. Make sure to check out which frames made the list.
Randolph Engineering Aviator
The classic style re-engineered by Randolph, the Aviator is lightweight, built to last, and looks great on anyone.
Randolph Engineering Aviator in Gunmetal with Glass Skytec AGX Lenses
Shop Randolph Engineering Aviator
Randolph Engineering Aviator Key Features:
- Lightweight and durable metal frame
- SkyTec™ mineral glass lenses for ultimate clarity and comfort (Non Rx only)
- Bayonet temples specifically designed for comfort under headgear
- Available in 3 sizes: 52, 55, and 58mm
- Prescription ready
Maui Jim Kanaio Coast
Built for the enduring adventurer in you, Maui Jim Kanaio Coast has all the makings of perfect driving sunglasses while not losing any of the comfort you expect from Maui Jim.
Maui Jim Kanaio Coast in Matte Soft Black with White and Blue & Neutral Grey Lenses
Shop Maui Jim Kanaio Coast
Maui Jim Kanaio Coast Key Features:
- PolarizedPlus2® lens technology grants you a completely glare-free and UV-protected field of view while also enhancing the colors of your surroundings
- Super lightweight triple-injected nylon frame lets you go about your day with minimal distractions.
- Wraparound shape blocks light from all angles
- Prescription ready
Prescription Driving Sunglasses Online at SportRx
Need prescription driving sunglasses? Done. When you shop with us, you’ll find video guides and tooltips throughout the build process as you customize the perfect pair. An answer to all your questions is at your fingertips, and if you want to chat with an expert, Contact Us. We’ll put you in touch with one of our friendly in-house opticians who can help you build your prescription driving sunglasses.
Ditch risky online shopping with the See Better Guarantee. Try your sunglasses for 45 days. If you’re not satisfied, send them back. Get a full refund, exchange, or credit towards a better pair. And return shipping? Covered. Get your pair of prescription driving sunglasses at SportRx today!
