Best Sunglasses for Hunting : Everything You Need To Know About Them
With the right accessories, you can take your hunting experience from good to great—and we’re here to help you pick the right ones! You’ll never be stuck without a pair of quality hunting sunglasses again once you’ve seen these top picks. Now go out there and start hunting!
If you're a hunter, then you know how important it is to have the right gear. A hunter’s most important but often overlooked piece of gear is their eyewear. And if you're looking for a great pair of sunglasses, then you've come to the right place.
We’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about hunting sunglasses – from the different brands and models available to the key features you should consider when making your purchase.
With so many options available, it can be tough to know which pair of sunglasses is right for you. That’s why we’ve broken down all the important information in an easy-to-read format. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hunter, we have the perfect pair of sunglasses for you.
Just read our article on hunting sunglasses and find the perfect pair for your needs!
How We Picked The Best Sunglasses for Hunting
It can be hard to find the best hunting sunglasses because there are so many products on the market.
Not all sunglasses are created equal, and when you're out hunting it's important to have the right pair of shades to protect your eyes from the sun and keep you seeing clearly.
After hours of research and consultation with experts, we've found the best sunglasses for your hunting trips. Our picks offer superior durability, and performance and will protect your eyes in any condition.
What You Will Love It
Whether you're hitting the range or stalking the game in the woods, the Wiley X Saber Advanced Shooting Glasses provide the ultimate eye protection on a budget.
They're especially great for people who need prescription glasses, as they come with easily replaceable lenses that can be custom-fitted with your prescription. You will love their sleek and semi-rimless wrap-around design.
The Sabers also have an adjustable nosepiece so they can be customized for a comfortable fit. They come with a zippered case and microfiber cleaning cloth. And the bayonet-style temples contour around your head for a secure, comfortable fit, making them ideal for long days in the field.
So if you wear prescription eyeglasses but love hunting, just make sure you're doing it with the best eye protection on the market.
What You Should Know
If you want sunglasses for hunting and you are on a budget, one of the best options is the Wiley X Saber Advanced. The durable frames meet MIL-PRF ballistics safety standards, meaning they are impact resistant from even the most powerful projectiles.
Wiley X also features a shield-style lens that provides superior coverage and will protect your eyes from harmful UV radiation.
So if you're looking for a great pair of affordable prescription sunglasses that are suitable for hunting, the Wiley X Saber Advanced is a great option.
What Could Have Been Better
If you're looking for a pair of budget sunglasses that are still great for hunting, the Wiley X Saber Advanced is a good option. However, many customers have complained that the glasses do not provide adequate fog protection and scratch resistance.
But overall, they're a good choice for hunters who need a quality pair of sunglasses especially if you are in search of something that is compatible with your prescription lenses.
What You Will Love It
Who said that sunglasses for hunting have to be always boring? The Magpul Explorer Sunglasses are the perfect eyewear for anyone who wants both style and function.
The Magpul Explorer Sunglasses feature a lightweight frame, and its low profile design will give you a perfect fit. Because of their design and color, they are often used by many as bow-hunting sunglasses.
It also has several frame and lens color options to choose from and also comes with polarized lenses and a non-polarized variant as well. The sunglass lenses are also treated with an anti-reflective coating that helps reduce glare.
With a sleek and casual design, the Magpul Explorer Sunglasses are perfect for anyone who wants to look good and badass at the same time!
What You Should Know
The Magpul Explorer Sunglasses are versatile glasses designed to offer maximum protection for your eyes. The lens is rated to stop ballistic fragments, and the frame is made from a high-strength polymer that is impact resistant.
The glasses also feature an anti-fog coating, and the lens is treated with an oleophobic coating to repel water and oil. The result is a pair of glasses that will keep your eyes safe in any environment.
Whether you're heading out to a pub or going out hunting in the wilderness, the Magpul Explorer Sunglasses have got you covered.
What Could Have Been Better
Magpul Explorer sunglasses have rubber material on the temple and nose pads but they are somewhat prone to flaking. The material is also not the most scratch-resistant, so you may need to be careful when cleaning or storing the glasses.
Despite these, the Magpul Explorer sunglasses are still a good choice for outdoor activities and can double up as cool casual sunglasses. But, if you are a regular shooter or a more serious hunter and want dedicated performance glasses, you can check their Helix Sunglasses.
What You Will Love It
Don't think these to be just another sport sunglasses, Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0 sunglasses are a top choice for many hunters, and for good reasons. The technical features are impressive, and they fit perfectly while providing great optics.
It features thin temple stems that provide good sealing and is compatible with over-ear earmuffs or any head protection. With a comfortable fit and superior coverage, these sunglasses will protect your eyes from the harsh sun and make sure you can see your target clearly.
They're also lightweight and won't weigh you down, even when you're out in the field all day. In addition, the Oakley SI Ballistic M Frames 3.0 sunglasses come with a storage case and a microfiber cleaning cloth. You will also get 3 replacement
sunglass lenses with your purchase.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hunter, Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0 sunglasses are a great choice for anyone who wants top-quality hunting glasses and is ready to pay a premium price for them!
What You Should Know
The Oakley SI Ballistic M Frames 3.0 sunglasses are a great option for anyone in need of a reliable pair of sunglasses. The frames are made from standard-issue plastic, and the lenses are made from proprietary shatterproof Plutonite. This material is known for its impact-resistant properties, and it exceeds common safety standards for impact protection.
It features interchangeable lenses, which are clear gray and provide 100% protection from both UVA and UVB rays. It also features one of the best anti-fog coatings we have seen and superior optical clarity that will give you the widest peripheral vision.
So whether you are duck hunting or taking down that big game, with your trusty rifle, it is a good idea to have your Oakleys as well!
What Could Have Been Better
The Oakley SI Ballistic M Frames 3.0 sunglasses are expensive, but they are worth the price for the value they offer. Unlike their more famous cousins, the Oakley Fuel Cell and Oakley Split Shot, the SI Ballistic are not much much of a style accessory.
But if you're looking for a high-quality pair of made-in-USA sunglasses that will last you for years, and don't mind the price the Oakley SI Ballistic M Frames 3.0 are a great choice.
What You Will Love It
Howard Leight Uvex Genesis Glasses from the house of Honeywell are surprisingly well-designed to provide superior optics and protective coverage in a 9-base wrap-around style. These affordable glasses are not just comfortable to wear but also provide superior peripheral vision.
It also provides a vast amount of adjustability to its nose pieces, temple strap, and lens inclination giving you the maximum comfort of a customized fit. They are also compatible with plenty of protective headgear and earmuffs.
If you need hunting glasses on a budget you simply cannot go wrong with Uvex Genesis.
What You Should Know
Don't let the budget price fool you as Uvex Genesis is a top-of-the-line product when it comes to its safety features. Its plastic lenses feature better scratch resistance than many competitive products on the market.
In addition, the Uvextreme anti-fog lens coating combined with the ventilation channel on the lens helps to minimize fog and moisture, making it perfect for use in any type of environment.
The frames are also designed to be comfortable and lightweight, so they won't cause fatigue even after extended use. Uvex Genesis is sure to provide the protection you need when you are on the field.
What Could Have Been Better
You will get Howard Leight Uvex Genesis Glasses in amber and vermilion color options. Though they provide UV protection, none of them features polarized lenses. Additionally, they have somewhat questionable durability, but for their price, you should not expect too much high quality.
Overall, the Howard Leight Uvex Genesis Safety Glasses are the best sunglasses at this price range, if you can keep your expectations realistic.
Also, check out our article on the Best Ice Fishing Gloves
Special Mention
Gatorz Magnum
Wait, why have we included the Gatorz Magnum Sunglasses in this list?
Okay, we agree, this is overkill for hunting sunglasses! But we love our Gatorz and look for every opportunity to mention them. And yes, we have known them even before Lone Survivor was released.
These tough and durable shades are made in the USA from CNC aluminum, making them sturdy enough to withstand any type of activity. They’re also comfortable to wear, thanks to their adjustable nose pads and temple tips. Plus, they provide 100% UVA and UVB protection, so you can rest assured your eyes will be protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
The Gatorz Magnum Sunglasses are tactical glasses that are more impact resistant than all of our top picks and are actually meant to be used on tactical missions.
But they are versatile and great for any outdoor adventures and are also smooth and stylish, making them a perfect choice for anyone who wants quality and protection in their eyewear.
Smith Hudson Elite Sunglasses
When it comes to eye protection, you can't go wrong with the Smith Hudson Elite Sunglasses. These made-in-USA glasses are designed to provide ballistic protection, making them ideal for use in high-impact environments.
They are available in multiple frames and lens color options to suit your style of hunting. It also features a sleek design means that you'll always look sharp even when you are out on the field!
Whether you're on the hunting grounds or just out for a run, the Smith Hudson Elite Sunglasses are perfect for keeping your eyes safe from harm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Glasses are an important piece of gear for hunters, but it can be hard to know which type is best for you.
There are a lot of different factors to consider when choosing hunting glasses, from lens color to frame style.
We've done the research for you and compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions hunters are often curious about the best hunting glasses that will suit them the most and tried to answer them comprehensively for you.
What color lens is best for hunting?
From an aesthetic standpoint, hunters may prefer a certain color lens for their hunting optics. But from a purely functional perspective, the "best" color lens for hunting depends on a few factors. For instance, different colors absorb and transmit different amounts of light.
So if you're trying to see in low-light conditions, and a nighttime hunting environment you might want a lens that transmits more light and provides better visual clarity without any eye strain (like yellow or orange). On the other hand, if you're trying to avoid being seen by your prey, you might want a darker lens (like green or brown).
There are also considerations like enhancing contrast and reducing glare under direct sunlight. For example, blue or purple lenses can help reduce glare and enhance contours around your target in bright conditions. And some colors like red can actually help improve contrast in low-light conditions. Green sunglasses also help to sharpen contrast and improve depth perception, both of which are important when hunting in low-light conditions, and for deer hunting, it is the best choice.
That said, the most popular choices among hunters are yellow, bronze or amber, and rarely blue. Ultimately, the best color lens for hunting is the one that helps you see better in the specific conditions you'll be hunting in.
Why do hunters wear yellow glasses?
Hunters wear glasses that are mostly yellow because they help to reduce glare and improve contrast. Additionally, yellow tends to block out blue light, which can help the hunter to see into shadows and forested areas more easily. All these help them to better distinguish their targets against the background, irrespective of the conditions.
What style of frame is best for hunting?
Again, this is going to come down to personal preference. But there are a few functional considerations to keep in mind when choosing a frame style for hunting glasses.
For instance, if you wear prescription glasses, you'll want to make sure the frames are compatible with your prescription lenses.
You'll also want to consider how the frames will fit with the rest of your gear. For example, if you wear a hat or helmet while hunting, you might want to choose frames that won't interfere with your headgear.
Finally, you'll want to make sure the frames are durable enough to withstand the rigors of hunting. Look for frames made from tough, lightweight materials like titanium or carbon fiber.
That said, a wrap-around style of frame is the most versatile as well as the most popular option for hunters.
Are polarized sunglasses good for hunting?
Polarized sunglass lenses can be helpful for hunters because they reduce glare. This can be helpful in both low-light and bright conditions. Polarized lenses work by filtering out horizontal light waves. This can help in enhancing contrast and make it easier to see in both bright and low-light conditions.
However, polarized hunting sunglasses can also make it harder to see LCD screens and other electronic displays. So if you rely on electronic displays for hunting (e.g., rangefinders, GPS units, night vision monoculars, etc.), you might want to choose non-polarized lenses.
Are scratched sunglasses dangerous for my eyes?
There's no need to worry if your sunglasses get a little scratched up. Scratches on the lens surface won't damage your eyesight. However, if the scratches are severely deep, they can reduce the quality of your vision. In addition, damaged sunglasses may not provide adequate protection against harmful UV rays.
So, it's always best to keep your sunglasses in good condition. But if you do find yourself with a pair of scratched lenses, don't panic-just make sure to take care of them so they don't cause any further damage.
Are polycarbonate glasses ok for shooting?
Yes, polycarbonate lenses are perfectly fine for shooting. In fact, they're actually a really good option because they're so lightweight and durable. Plus, they don't shatter as easily as regular glass lenses, so you don't have to worry about them breaking if you drop them.
What are the different categories of sunglasses?
The differences between categories of sunglasses come down to two main factors: the amount of light they block, and the level of UV protection they offer. Lens darkness, or tints, are measured by the percentage of light allowed through the lens; the lower the number, the darker the tint. And while most people think that darker lenses mean higher protection from UV rays, that's not necessarily true. Sunglasses can also be categorized by how much protection they offer from UV rays.
Category 0 Allows 85% - 100% of incoming light through the lens; for example, clear lenses with little or no tint are in this category that offers minimal UV protection.
Category 1 Allows 43% - 80% of incoming light; for example, yellow, amber, and orange lenses are in this category and offer moderate UV protection.
Category 2 Allows 8% - 43% of incoming light; for example, brown and grey lenses are in this category and offer good UV protection.
Category 3 Allows 2% - 8% of incoming light; for example, dark grey, green, and blue lenses are in this category and offer excellent UV protection.
Category 4 Allows less than 2% of incoming light; for example, very dark grey or black lenses with almost no UV light transmission are in this category and offer superior UV protection.
Can you get prescription hunting glasses?
You can get prescription hunting glasses, but they are not typically marketed as such. rather, they are marketed as "sport sunglasses" or some other type of sunglasses.
Prescription hunting sunglasses can help reduce glare and improve your vision in bright sunlight. They also help to improve contrast and make objects easier to see in low-light conditions. This is especially important for hunters, who often hunt in the low light hours of the early morning or evening.
You can also ask your eye doctor if they carry any prescription sunglasses that would be suitable for hunting. Or, you can pick one of our top picks, the Wiley X Saber Advanced and swap its lenses for something with your prescribed power.
How do I clean my sunglasses?
It's important to clean your sunglasses on a regular basis to keep them looking their best and prevent a build-up of dirt and debris that can scratch the lenses. The best way to clean your lenses is with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals, as they can damage the lenses.
To clean the frame, start by removing any loose dirt with a soft brush. Then, use mild soap and water to remove any remaining dirt or debris. Avoid getting the frame too wet, as this can damage the finish.
Once you've cleaned both the lenses and frame, dry them off with a soft cloth. If you need to, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting to help speed up the drying process.
So What Are The Best Hunting Sunglasses For You?
A pair of safety glasses are a necessary piece of hunting gear regardless of the time of year, but it is often overlooked. With the right pair of sunglasses, you can improve your visibility while hunting and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
For your reference here are our top picks for the best sunglasses for hunting are:
Best Value for Money - Wiley X Saber Advanced
Best Looking Hunting Sunglasses - Magpul Explorer Sunglasses
Best Premium Pick - Oakley SI Ballistic M Frame 3.0
Best Budget Pick - Howard Leight Uvex Genesis Glasses
Best Tactical Glasses - Gatorz Magnum
We highly recommend that you take good care of them so they can last a very long time.
So what are you waiting for? Just click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons and add them to your cart.
Thanks for reading our blog and we assure you that whatever you choose you will not regret it!
Happy hunting!
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