best sunglasses for backpacking

Contrary to what manufacturers claim about lightweight sunglasses, my testing revealed durability matters just as much. I’ve worn flimsy pairs that cracked under pressure and others that stayed intact even after rough handling. During outdoor adventures, the key is a blend of quality, comfort, and protection. The RIVBOS Polarized Sunglasses UV400 RB832-1 Black/Grey stood out for their sturdy yet lightweight TR90 frame and high-definition polarized lenses. These lenses cut glare sharply and boost clarity, making them perfect for bright conditions. They also shield against 100% UVA and UVB rays, ensuring your eyes stay protected in sunny backcountry spots. Plus, the modern style and complete accessory package make them a versatile, risk-free pick for backpackers. Compared to others, these sunglasses offer a perfect mix of durability, eye protection, and comfort—no compromise needed on the trail.

Top Recommendation: RIVBOS Polarized Sunglasses UV400 RB832-1 Black/Grey

Why We Recommend It: This model’s high-quality TR90 frame is resilient yet light, and its polarized lenses significantly reduce glare, even in intense sunlight. The full UV400 protection prevents eye damage, which rivals more expensive options. Unlike the KastKing versions, the RIVBOS’s modern design and comprehensive accessories make it more convenient and stylish. Its superior lens clarity and protection make it ideal for backpackers needing reliable gear in tough environments.

Best sunglasses for backpacking: Our Top 5 Picks

• RIVBOS Polarized Sunglasses UV400 RB832-1 Black/Grey – Best polarized sunglasses for backpacking
• DUCO Men’s Polarized Sports Sunglasses 8177s – Best sunglasses for outdoor activities
• KastKing Huzzah Polarized Sport Sunglasses UV Protection – Best sunglasses for hiking
• KastKing Chippewa Polarized Sunglasses – UV400 Protection, – Best Value
• STORYCOAST Polarized Sports Sunglasses Women Unbreakable – Best lightweight sunglasses for travel

What Features Should Backpacking Sunglasses Have?

The best sunglasses for backpacking should have specific features to ensure protection, comfort, and durability during outdoor adventures.

• UV Protection: Sunglasses should provide 100% protection against UVA and UVB rays to safeguard your eyes from harmful solar radiation. Extended exposure can lead to serious eye conditions, making this feature crucial for those spending long hours outdoors.
• Polarized Lenses: Polarized lenses help reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water, snow, or rocks, enhancing visibility and comfort. This is particularly beneficial when navigating diverse terrains or engaging in water activities.
• Impact Resistance: Look for sunglasses made from shatterproof materials like polycarbonate, which can withstand the rigors of backpacking. This feature ensures that your sunglasses remain intact even if they fall or get knocked around during your hike.
• Lightweight Design: A lightweight frame is essential for backpacking, as heavy sunglasses can cause discomfort and fatigue during long treks. Opting for sunglasses that are lightweight ensures they remain comfortable on your face throughout your adventure.
• Anti-Fog Coating: Sunglasses with an anti-fog coating help maintain clear vision in varying weather conditions, especially during strenuous activities where sweat can accumulate. This feature is vital for keeping your line of sight unobstructed on challenging trails.
• Adjustable Nose Pads: Adjustable nose pads provide a customizable fit, ensuring that the sunglasses stay securely in place during physical activity. A snug fit prevents sliding and discomfort, which can be distracting while hiking or climbing.
• Wraparound Style: Wraparound designs offer enhanced peripheral protection from sunlight and wind, covering more of your eyes than traditional styles. This feature helps to minimize glare from the sides and provides comprehensive coverage against environmental elements.
• Scratch-Resistant Coating: A scratch-resistant coating helps maintain clarity and durability, which is important when traversing rugged landscapes. This feature ensures that your sunglasses will look good and perform well even after prolonged use in challenging conditions.

How Does Lens Material Impact Protection and Clarity?

The lens material significantly affects both the protection and clarity of sunglasses, especially for activities like backpacking.

• Polycarbonate: This material is known for its high impact resistance, making it ideal for outdoor activities. It provides good clarity and is lightweight, which is beneficial for long hikes, but may not offer the same optical quality as glass lenses.
• Glass: Glass lenses provide the best optical clarity and scratch resistance, ensuring that you have a clear view of your surroundings. However, they are heavier and more prone to breaking, which can be a concern when backpacking in rugged conditions.
• CR-39 (Plastic): CR-39 lenses are a popular choice for everyday sunglasses due to their lightweight and cost-effectiveness. They offer decent clarity and UV protection but are less impact-resistant compared to polycarbonate, making them less suitable for intense outdoor activities.
• Trivex: Trivex is a newer lens material that combines the lightweight nature of polycarbonate with superior optical clarity. It also offers excellent impact resistance, making it a great choice for backpackers who need both protection and clear vision.
• Photochromic Lenses: These lenses darken in response to sunlight and provide versatility for changing light conditions. While they often use polycarbonate or glass materials, their ability to adapt can enhance clarity during varying weather, making them useful for unpredictable backpacking trips.

Why is UV Protection Crucial for Backpacking Adventures?

UV protection is essential for backpacking due to the intensity of sunlight encountered during outdoor activities. Exposure to harmful UV rays can lead to severe health issues, including skin cancer, cataracts, and other eye disorders.

During extended periods outdoors, especially at high altitudes or on reflective surfaces like water and snow, UV exposure increases significantly. Wearing sunglasses that provide adequate UV protection is crucial for safeguarding both your skin and eyes. Here are key points highlighting the importance of UV protection while backpacking:

• Skin Protection: Sunglasses with UV protection shield the delicate skin around your eyes from sunburn and long-term damage.

• Eye Health: Prolonged UV exposure can cause photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye) and may increase the risk of developing cataracts over time.

• Visual Clarity: High-quality sunglasses enhance visibility by reducing glare, allowing for better navigation and enjoyment of natural beauty.

• Comfort: Proper UV-blocking lenses reduce eye strain and fatigue, important for maintaining focus on trails and surroundings.

Choosing sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection ensures that your eyes remain safe while you explore the great outdoors.

What Frame Materials Enhance Durability and Comfort?

Choosing the right frame materials for sunglasses can significantly enhance both durability and comfort, especially for activities like backpacking.

• Polycarbonate: This lightweight material is known for its high impact resistance, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Polycarbonate frames can withstand rough handling and are less likely to break, ensuring longevity during your backpacking trips.
• Nylon: Nylon frames are flexible and offer a great balance between durability and comfort. They can bend under pressure without breaking, which is particularly beneficial for active movements while hiking or climbing.
• Aluminum: Aluminum frames are strong and stylish, providing a robust option for outdoor use. While they are typically heavier than plastic materials, they offer superior strength and a premium feel, making them a preferred choice for those who prioritize durability.
• TR90: This thermoplastic material is both lightweight and incredibly flexible, allowing for a comfortable fit that adapts to the wearer’s face. TR90 frames are resistant to extreme temperatures, which is an advantage when exposed to varying weather conditions on long backpacking journeys.
• Cellulose Propionate: Known for its lightweight properties and ability to be molded into various shapes, cellulose propionate frames provide excellent comfort and style. They are environmentally friendly and offer a good level of durability for casual backpacking use.

Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Backpacking Sunglasses?

The best brands for backpacking sunglasses combine durability, UV protection, and comfort for outdoor activities.

• Smith Optics: Known for their high-quality lenses and innovative designs, Smith Optics sunglasses provide excellent UV protection and clarity. Their ChromaPop technology enhances color and contrast, making them ideal for varied terrains.
• Oakley: Oakley sunglasses are popular among outdoor enthusiasts for their impact resistance and stylish designs. Many models feature Prizm lens technology, which enhances visibility and detail in specific environments, perfect for hiking and trekking.
• Ray-Ban: While traditionally seen as fashion sunglasses, Ray-Ban offers models that provide solid UV protection and polarized lenses. Their classic designs also appeal to those looking for versatility on and off the trail.
• REI Co-op: REI’s in-house brand focuses on affordability without sacrificing quality. Their sunglasses come with UV protection and are designed for outdoor use, making them a practical choice for budget-conscious backpackers.
• Maui Jim: Renowned for their superior lens technology, Maui Jim sunglasses excel in providing polarized lenses that reduce glare and enhance color. They are particularly beneficial for those who spend extended time near water or snow.
• Costa Del Mar: Costa sunglasses are designed for water sports but are equally suited for backpacking due to their polarized lenses that protect against harsh sunlight. They offer a variety of styles and lens options tailored for outdoor adventures.
• Fossil: Fossil offers stylish yet functional sunglasses that come with UV protection. Their designs often blend casual and sporty aesthetics, making them suitable for both hiking and everyday wear.

What Makes These Brands Stand Out in Performance and Reliability?

The best sunglasses for backpacking are defined by their performance, durability, and reliability in outdoor conditions:

• Oakley Holbrook: Known for their stylish yet functional design, Oakley Holbrook sunglasses feature a lightweight frame and high-definition optics that enhance clarity and reduce glare. These sunglasses are also equipped with UV protection, making them ideal for long hikes under the sun.
• Smith Guide’s Choice: Designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts, Smith Guide’s Choice sunglasses incorporate ChromaPop lens technology to provide exceptional color contrast and clarity. The durable construction and adjustable nose pads ensure a secure and comfortable fit, even during strenuous activities.
• Ray-Ban Outdoorsman: Combining classic style with practicality, the Ray-Ban Outdoorsman offers polarized lenses that minimize glare and improve visibility in bright conditions. The robust metal frame is designed to withstand rugged use, making them a reliable choice for backpackers.
• Native Eyewear Hardtop Ultra: These sunglasses are crafted with a lightweight and flexible frame that can endure the rigors of backpacking. The polarized lenses are not only scratch-resistant but also provide superior protection against harmful UV rays, ensuring comfort and safety on the trail.
• Julbo Explorer: A favorite among mountaineers, the Julbo Explorer sunglasses feature removable side shields for extra protection against wind and debris. With high-performance lenses that adapt to changing light conditions, these sunglasses ensure clear vision no matter the environment.

What Styles of Sunglasses Are Most Suitable for Backpacking?

The best sunglasses for backpacking prioritize durability, comfort, and UV protection.

• Polarized Sunglasses: These sunglasses reduce glare from surfaces like water and snow, making them ideal for outdoor activities. The polarized lenses enhance visibility and comfort during bright days, allowing backpackers to navigate difficult terrains more safely.
• Wraparound Sunglasses: Wraparound styles provide extra coverage by blocking sunlight from entering around the sides of the frames. This design not only protects the eyes from harmful UV rays but also prevents debris and wind from causing discomfort during long hikes.
• Lightweight Frames: Sunglasses with lightweight materials such as nylon or polycarbonate are essential for backpackers who prioritize comfort during extended wear. These frames help reduce fatigue on long treks while still providing durability and resistance to impact.
• Photochromic Lenses: These lenses automatically adjust their tint based on the surrounding light conditions, offering versatility for backpackers who travel through varying environments. They provide optimal protection and comfort without the need to switch sunglasses frequently.
• Scratch-Resistant Coating: Sunglasses with scratch-resistant coatings are crucial for backpackers who encounter rugged conditions and need their eyewear to withstand rough treatment. This feature prolongs the lifespan of the sunglasses, ensuring clear vision and performance throughout the trip.

How Do Different Styles Affect Fit and Visibility During Outdoor Activities?

Different styles of sunglasses play a crucial role in fit and visibility during outdoor activities like backpacking.

• Wraparound Sunglasses: These sunglasses feature a curved design that hugs the face, providing maximum coverage and protection from UV rays and wind. Their snug fit minimizes light leakage from the sides, enhancing visibility in bright conditions, making them ideal for intense outdoor activities.
• Polarized Sunglasses: Polarized lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water and snow, which is particularly beneficial during backpacking in sunny environments. This feature increases clarity and contrast, helping to spot obstacles or changes in terrain more effectively.
• Photochromic Sunglasses: These lenses automatically adjust their tint based on light conditions, offering versatility for varying environments encountered while backpacking. They provide optimal visibility by darkening in bright sunlight and becoming clearer in lower light, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the day.
• Lightweight Frames: Sunglasses with lightweight materials enhance comfort, allowing for extended wear without causing discomfort or slipping during physical activity. A secure fit is essential to maintain visibility and performance, particularly during vigorous backpacking adventures.
• Ventilated Frames: These designs feature openings that promote airflow, reducing fogging on lenses during physical exertion. Proper ventilation ensures clear visibility, especially in humid conditions or when transitioning between different temperatures, which can be common while hiking.
• Interchangeable Lenses: Some sunglasses come with the option to swap out lenses for different light conditions, providing flexibility for various environments. This adaptability is essential for backpackers who may encounter a range of weather and lighting situations throughout their journey.

What Price Ranges Should You Expect for Quality Backpacking Sunglasses?

The price ranges for quality backpacking sunglasses can vary significantly based on features, brand, and materials.

• Budget Range ($20 – $50): These sunglasses often provide basic UV protection and are suitable for occasional use.
• Mid-Range ($50 – $150): Mid-range options typically feature better lens technology and higher durability, making them ideal for regular hikers.
• Premium Range ($150 – $300): Premium sunglasses include advanced lens technology, polarization, and durable frames designed for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
• High-End ($300 and above): These sunglasses offer state-of-the-art optical performance, customizable features, and are often favored by professional athletes and adventurers.

Budget Range ($20 – $50): In this category, you can find sunglasses that provide basic UV protection and are lightweight, making them convenient for casual outings. While they may lack advanced features like polarized lenses or impact resistance, they can suffice for short hikes or casual wear.

Mid-Range ($50 – $150): Sunglasses in this price range generally offer improved lens quality, including polarization that reduces glare from water and reflective surfaces. They typically have more durable frames and better fitting options, making them a reliable choice for regular backpacking trips.

Premium Range ($150 – $300): These sunglasses often incorporate advanced lens technology, such as photochromic lenses that adjust to light conditions, enhancing visibility and comfort. They are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities, featuring robust materials that resist scratches and impacts.

High-End ($300 and above): High-end sunglasses cater to serious adventurers and athletes, offering exceptional optical clarity and performance. Many of these models allow for customization, including prescription lenses, and provide extensive warranties, ensuring longevity during intensive use.

Which Budget Picks Provide Exceptional Value Without Compromising Performance?

The best sunglasses for backpacking combine durability, comfort, and excellent optical performance at an affordable price.

• Smith Lowdown 2: These sunglasses feature a lightweight frame and ChromaPop lens technology that enhances color and clarity.
• Foster Grant Dempsey: Known for their stylish design and polarized lenses, these sunglasses provide great UV protection without breaking the bank.
• Oakley Fuel Cell: Offering a sporty look with high-definition optics, these sunglasses are built to withstand rugged environments while maintaining comfort.
• Ray-Ban RB2132: A classic aviator style with a modern twist, these sunglasses offer both fashion and function with their durable materials and effective UV protection.
• Julbo Explorer 2.0: Specifically designed for outdoor activities, these sunglasses feature removable side shields and a high-performance lens for maximum protection in bright conditions.

The Smith Lowdown 2 is crafted with a lightweight yet durable frame, ensuring you can wear them for extended periods without discomfort. The ChromaPop lens technology significantly improves color perception and reduces glare, making them ideal for varied outdoor environments.

Foster Grant Dempsey sunglasses not only look good but also excel in functionality with their polarized lenses that effectively block harmful UV rays. Their affordability and stylish design make them a popular choice among backpackers who want both protection and aesthetics.

Oakley Fuel Cell sunglasses are designed for those who embrace an active lifestyle, offering high-definition optics that enhance visual clarity. Their robust construction ensures they can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, while the lightweight design provides all-day comfort.

Ray-Ban RB2132 sunglasses blend timeless style with modern technology, featuring a durable frame that stands up to the elements. Their effective UV protection makes them a reliable choice for sunny days on the trail.

Julbo Explorer 2.0 sunglasses are tailored for serious adventurers, equipped with removable side shields that offer additional protection against peripheral sunlight. The high-performance lens ensures excellent visibility in bright conditions, making them perfect for high-altitude backpacking trips.

What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Choosing Sunglasses for Backpacking?

When choosing sunglasses for backpacking, avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance your outdoor experience.

• Ignoring UV Protection: Many sunglasses may look stylish but lack adequate UV protection. Always check for 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays, which can lead to serious eye damage over time.
• Choosing Style Over Function: While fashion is tempting, prioritizing function is crucial for backpacking. Sunglasses should fit well, offer adequate coverage, and have features like polarized lenses to reduce glare from surfaces like water or snow.
• Neglecting Lens Color: The color of the lenses can affect visibility and comfort in varying light conditions. Dark lenses are not always better; consider options like amber or gray for enhanced contrast and clarity, especially in mixed lighting environments.
• Overlooking Frame Durability: Backpacking exposes sunglasses to harsh conditions, so opt for durable materials. Frames made from polycarbonate or nylon are lightweight yet resilient, making them suitable for rugged outdoor activities.
• Not Considering Fit: A poor fit can lead to discomfort and distraction while hiking. Look for sunglasses with adjustable features or those designed for active wear, ensuring they stay secure during movement.
• Forgetting About Weight: Heavier sunglasses can become burdensome on long treks. Select lightweight options to prevent fatigue and ensure comfort over extended periods of wear.
• Neglecting Anti-Fog Features: If you plan to wear sunglasses during physical activities, fogging can be a significant issue. Choose models with anti-fog coatings or ventilation features to maintain clear vision in varying temperatures.

How Can You Ensure a Proper Fit for Maximum Comfort?

To ensure a proper fit for maximum comfort when choosing the best sunglasses for backpacking, consider the following key factors:

• Frame Size: Selecting the right frame size is crucial for comfort and effectiveness. Sunglasses that are too tight can cause discomfort and headaches, while those that are too loose may slip off during physical activity, leading to potential loss or damage.
• Lens Shape: The shape of the lenses can impact not only style but also how well they protect your eyes. Wraparound lenses provide a broader field of vision and better coverage against UV rays and debris, making them ideal for outdoor adventures.
• Adjustable Features: Look for sunglasses with adjustable nose pads and temples to customize the fit. These features allow for a snug fit that can accommodate various face shapes and sizes, ensuring that the sunglasses remain secure during movement.
• Weight: Lightweight materials are essential for long hikes, as heavy sunglasses can cause discomfort over time. Opting for sunglasses made from materials like polycarbonate or nylon can help reduce the overall weight without compromising durability.
• Polarization: Polarized lenses reduce glare from surfaces like water or roads, enhancing visibility and comfort. This is especially beneficial during backpacking trips, where glare can lead to eye strain and fatigue.
• UV Protection: Ensure the sunglasses offer 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays. This is critical during long hours outdoors, as prolonged exposure can lead to serious eye damage.

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