For the first time ever in one of our Buyer's Guides, we're making our test notes available to you so you learn a bit more about every product in this test and why it finished where it did. Please leave any questions or comments at the bottom of the 2107 Golf Sunglasses Buyer's Guide post.
Full Test Report
Oakley EVZERO Path
Best Golf Sunglasses
Primary Lens
|
PRIZM Golf |
Price
|
$170.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
1st |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
2nd |
Phobicity
|
1st |
Durability
|
14th |
Score
|
80.69 |
Bollé Bolt
Primary Lens
|
V3 Golf |
Price
|
$169.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
7th |
Glare
|
1st |
Coverage
|
1st |
Phobicity
|
8th |
Durability
|
2nd |
Score
|
80.19 |
Test Notes:
The Bollé Bolt sets itself apart with the best coverage of any lens tested along with outstanding glare resistance. Its photochromic V3 Golf lens trends slightly bright while modestly warming colors. Contrast and clarity are good, but not exceptional. Rubberized nosepiece allows the durable frame to sit firmly in place.
Recommended for: Golfers looking for a photochromic lens that offers complete coverage and nearly neutral colors.
Rudy Project Rydon
Primary Lens
|
Golf 100 |
Price
|
$249.99 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
4th |
Glare
|
24th |
Coverage
|
4th |
Phobicity
|
24th |
Durability
|
2nd |
Score
|
73.31 |
Test Notes:
The Golf 100 Lens is noteworthy for its exceptional clarity and neutral tint. One of the smallest fitting models tested, the Rydon may be too small for golfers with medium to larger heads/faces. Frame is sturdier than most and provides excellent coverage. Lenses showed average durability and hydrophobicity with below average oleophobicity. Included Racing Red lens offers an outstanding brighter, high-contrast alternative that testers liked every bit as much as the Golf 100 lens.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking exceptional clarity and neutral color presentation. Also excellent for golfers seeking a multiple lens solution suitable for the golf course.
Rudy Project Agon
Best Photochromic Lens
Primary Lens
|
ImpactX Golf |
Price
|
$274.99 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
3rd |
Glare
|
24th |
Coverage
|
5th |
Phobicity
|
24th |
Durability
|
22nd |
Score
|
71.88 |
Test Notes:
The ImpactX is our pick for the best photochromic lens in the test. Light transmission is consistently perfect in nearly every condition. Neutral tint offers clarity every bit as good, if not better than, Rudy Project’s Golf 100 lens. Lens hydro/oleophobicity and durability on par with Golf 100, however, the Agon frame broke (at earpiece) during durability testing, but is still usable. Fits slightly larger than Rydon. While additional lenses are not included, the Agon frame allows for lenses to be swapped quickly and easily.
Recommended For: Golfers looking for the best in class photochromic lens and neutral color rendition.
Electric Fade
Primary Lens
|
OHM+ Rose |
Price
|
$160.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
2nd |
Glare
|
29th |
Coverage
|
19th |
Phobicity
|
1st |
Durability
|
19th |
Score
|
69.09 |
Test Notes:
The best high-contrast lens in the test, Electric’s OHM+ Rose lens tint is less aggressive than Oakley’s and outperformed the PRIZM for contrast and clarity everywhere but on the putting surface. Electric is one of only two models tested that block blue light. The fashion-friendly Fade style provides below average coverage, which in addition to interfering with vision, causes issues with glare and reflective light. Other frame styles tested (Mudslinger, Tech One) provide better coverage, but don’t match the top wrap styles tested. Durable frame – lenses stay in place under force. Arguably one great frame away from the #1 ranking.
Recommended For: Golfers willing to sacrifice some coverage for a lens that offers exceptional high-contrast, best in class, HDR-like resolution. Those looking for a more neutral tint should consider Electric’s excellent OHM+ Green lens.
adidas Whipstart
Primary Lens
|
Red Mirror |
Price
|
$139.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
9th |
Glare
|
5th |
Coverage
|
20th |
Phobicity
|
8th |
Durability
|
7th |
Score
|
66.84 |
Test Notes:
Nearly as impressive as Electric’s OHM+ Rose, the adidas Red Mirror lens excels at bringing out downrange detail, particularly in the transitions from the fairway to the green. Due principally to its larger size, the Whipstart manages glare better than any other non-wrap style tested. The firmer frame moves when it needs to. Lab scores are above average.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking outstanding clarity in a style that’s fashion-forward without interfering with the golf swing in any significant way.
Serengeti Ponza
Best Polarized
Primary Lens
|
Rootbeer Brown |
Price
|
$169.99 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
5th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
10th |
Phobicity
|
1st |
Durability
|
28th |
Score
|
66.41 |
Test Notes:
Sergengeti’s Sanded Rootbeer Brown is the only lens tested that’s both polarized and photochromic. The lens offers excellent clarity with a slight warming of colors. The Ponza’s larger footprint provides outstanding coverage in a full frame design. Lenses offer excellent hydro/oleophobicity. Durability results are average at best and the lenses moved (nearly popping out) during testing.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking exceptional coverage in a full frame design and/or outstanding clarity from a lens that’s both polarized and photochromic.
Bollé Breaker
Primary Lens
|
V3 Golf |
Price
|
$109.99 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
7th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
15th |
Phobicity
|
8th |
Durability
|
11th |
Score
|
66.22 |
Test Notes:
Offers the same excellent photochromic V3 Golf lens as the Bolt, but is otherwise inferior in every appreciable way. The lens coverage isn’t nearly as complete – the lenses are short and can interfere with vision. The Breaker frame isn’t as durable; there’s movement at the joints, and lenses popped in and out during durability testing.
Recommended For: Golfers who want Bollé’s V3 lens, but don’t have another $60 to spend on the Bolt.
Sundog Clutch Polarized
Primary Lens
|
TRUE Blue Polarized |
Price
|
$149.99 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
11th |
Glare
|
5th |
Coverage
|
20th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
4th |
Score
|
64.53 |
Test Notes:
One of the darker lenses tested, the True Blue Polarized lens is best suited for bright conditions. Contrast and clarity are excellent, while the Clutch frame is suitable for larger faces. Durability was generally excellent, however, we noted that lenses popped out when frames were bent.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking a polarized lens for use in bright conditions.
Nike Premier 8
Primary Lens
|
Gunmetal Flash |
Price
|
$136.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
6th |
Glare
|
26th |
Coverage
|
7th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
31st |
Score
|
63 |
Test Notes:
The Premier 8 is another more fashion-forward design that offers enough coverage to leave in place while swinging. Fits slightly large. The Gunmetal flash lens provides a neutral rendition of colors and is bright enough to be useful in shadow areas. The otherwise sturdy design is crippled by a flaw in the design of transition point from temple to earpiece. The earpiece broke (both sides) under minimal stress rendering the glasses unwearable. *See Nike X2 for details on available Max Golf lens.
Recommended For: Golfers, particularly Nike fans, unconcerned with durability who are looking for good contrast from a conventionally neutral tint.
Smith PivLock Overdrive
Best Full Frame Coverage
Primary Lens
|
Polarized Gray |
Price
|
$249.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
19th |
Glare
|
3rd |
Coverage
|
3rd |
Phobicity
|
8th |
Durability
|
28th |
Score
|
62.69 |
Test Notes:
The Overdrive provides near goggle-like coverage in a full frame design – the best coverage of any full frame design tested. The Polarized Gray lens is excellent in bright conditions, while the included Ignitor (red) lens provides a brighter high-contrast alternative. Innovative interchangeable lens system is easy to operate; however, lenses may pop out under force. Durability is, overall, average.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking the best coverage available in a full-frame, interchangeable lens design.
Maui Jim Kupuna
Primary Lens
|
Maui Rose |
Price
|
$299.99 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
17th |
Glare
|
2nd |
Coverage
|
28th |
Phobicity
|
1st |
Durability
|
22nd |
Score
|
62 |
Test Notes:
The highest rated of the Maui Jim offerings tested the Kapuna’s Maui Rose lens received accolades for its HDR-like, high contrast, tint that makes colors pop without going overboard. The minimalist wrap style is lightweight and comfortable, but doesn’t provide the best coverage. Lenses are exceptionally durable and are among the most hydro/oleophobic we tested. The connection point between bridge and lens loosened significantly during testing.
Recommend For: Golfers willing to sacrifice coverage for a lightweight, flexible design with a polarized lens that offers outstanding contrast.
Nike Golf X2
Primary Lens
|
Max Golf |
Price
|
$186.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
15th |
Glare
|
3rd |
Coverage
|
20th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
19th |
Score
|
61.28 |
Test Notes:
Nike’s Max Golf lens provides a slightly cool cast which deepens blues, particularly bright skies. While that makes the X2 stand out for its enhanced ball-tracking capabilities, testers noted that it also creates a blue cast on the ball at address. The X2’s frame is stable, particularly at the end pieces, however, the lenses did pop a bit during durability testing. The nose pads aren’t among the most comfortable we tested, and the design doesn’t get along well with some hats.
Recommended For: Golfers placing a premium on enhanced ball tracking, particularly against bright blue skies.
Smith PivLock Arena Max
Primary Lens
|
ChromaPop Sun Green |
Price
|
$189.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
24th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
9th |
Phobicity
|
8th |
Durability
|
6th |
Score
|
61.18 |
Test Notes:
Smith’s ChromaPop Sun Green Mirror lens runs slightly cool, and balances otherwise harsh light in bright areas while providing what testers described as a smoothing effect on the entire field of vision. As a result, details don’t always appear crisp, but there’s something about the way this lens renders colors that we really like. The adjustable, two-position nose piece adapts well to both smaller and larger noses/faces, however, those with medium-sized faces may find that the fitting options miss the middle. Switching between lenses is a breeze, and the included ChromaPop Rose Flash lens provides a brighter, high-contrast alternative. Durability is well above average, which is impressive considering the design is almost entirely lens.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking cooler colors from a frameless sports design. Also ideal for those who want the options that come with the included alternative lenses.
Sundog Stack
Best Golf Sunglasses Under $100
Primary Lens
|
Grey Blue Mirror |
Price
|
$69.99 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
16th |
Glare
|
5th |
Coverage
|
10th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
26th |
Score
|
60.56 |
Test Notes:
A sleeper of sorts, the Sungdog Stack offers solid performance at an exceptional price. The stack received high marks for comfort, while its Grey Blue Mirror lenses received solid scores across the board; most notably for its T-5 finish for glare and reflection. Lens coverage is just short of excellent. Light transmission shades slightly dark. The lenses moved around and popped a bit during testing, but otherwise durability is very good. As an added bonus, the Grey Blue Mirror lens also filters out blue light.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking an above average pair of sunglasses for well less than $100.
Maui Jim Frigate
Primary Lens
|
Maui HT |
Price
|
$329.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
12th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
28th |
Phobicity
|
1st |
Durability
|
22nd |
Score
|
59.25 |
Test Notes:
Maui Jim’s HT lens (the company’s recommended lens for golf) deepens blues and greens without introducing an intrusive color cast. Contrast and clarity don’t fall within the top tier, and while coverage is significantly better than you might expect from the Frigate’s minimalist design, it isn’t ideally suited for golfers who never take their glasses off during a round. While Maui Jim’s lens durability and hydro/oleophobicity are inarguably among the very best, the Frigate’s metal frame, while flexible, is susceptible to bending. The connection between the bridge and the lens loosened during testing, and testers noted that the bridge sometimes interferes with the line of sight.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking a lightweight frame coupled with a lens that accentuates the features of the golf course without distorting colors.
REKS Wrap Around
Best Value - Polarized
Primary Lens
|
LUMOLUX Brown |
Price
|
$50.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
25th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
7th |
Phobicity
|
30th |
Durability
|
1st |
Score
|
58.47 |
Test Notes:
Notable for its seemingly indestructible frame the REKS Wrap tied for 1st in the durability category. Its polarized lens is among the darkest and testers noted a pronounced warming effect. While coverage is excellent for a full-frame design, clarity and contrast are unremarkable and the lens produces an above average amount of glare and reflection. The frame has a tendency to slip and slide down the nose. At $50, it’s still a relative bargain.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking an affordable, nearly indestructible pair of polarized sunglasses suitable for play in the brightest of conditions.
adidas Kumacross 2.0
Primary Lens
|
Matte Black Polarized |
Price
|
$139.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
27th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
10th |
Phobicity
|
8th |
Durability
|
14th |
Score
|
58.31 |
Test Notes:
A polarized alternative to the excellent Whipstart, Kumacross offers a neutral tint that our testers rated below average for clarity and contrast. Glare resistance is excellent considering lifestyle (non-wrap) design. While durability is generally good, the frame is more rigid than most, and there is some play in the lenses under load.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking a neutral, polarized lens, and who don’t swing with their glasses on.
NYX Falcon
Primary Lens
|
Arctic Blue |
Price
|
$89.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
19th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
10th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
14th |
Score
|
58.31 |
Test Notes:
The Falcon is a relatively lightweight and comfortable frame that suffers from a pronounced orange glare as light passes through the top of the translucent frame. The Arctic Blue lens received average scores for clarity and contrast, though it should be noted that the lens is among the brightest we tested. While durability scores are respectable, we noted that the lenses popped free during testing.
Recommended For: Golfers looking for a bright, neutral lens below the $100 price point.
Tifosi Seek FC
Primary Lens
|
GT (Golf Tennis) |
Price
|
$49.95 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
13th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
20th |
Phobicity
|
26th |
Durability
|
14th |
Score
|
58.31 |
Test Notes:
An alternative to the Crit; while the Seek’s GT lens provides better coverage, additional lenses aren’t included in the package. Our durability concerns stem from the ease at which the lenses popped out during testing.
Recommended For: Golfers who like Tifosi’s GT lens and want more coverage than the Crit provides.
Sundog Prime EXT
Primary Lens
|
Aurora |
Price
|
$69.99 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
18th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
10th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
28th |
Score
|
58.19 |
Test Notes:
The brightest of the Sundog offerings we tested, the Aurora lens offers a higher-contrast rose tint that warms the field of view, makes reds and pinks pop, and reduces glare. Contrast, particularly downrange, is very good. The Prime EXT frame is flexible with some play at joints. The well-designed nose piece adjusts to provide a secure fit on nearly any face. While the lenses provide average scratch resistance, we observed that one of the lenses chipped at its edge during testing.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking an affordable, high-contrast lens suitable for play in variable conditions.
Tifosi Tyrant 2.0
Primary Lens
|
Fototec Brown |
Price
|
$79.95 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
27th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
5th |
Phobicity
|
26th |
Durability
|
11th |
Score
|
57.78 |
Test Notes:
Featuring Tifosi’s photochromic Fototec lens, the Tyrant scored well for both glare and coverage. Hydro and oleophobicity scores were below average, as were clarity and contrast scores. The lens provides a neutral to slightly warm tint with particularly good shadow contrast. The frame is extremely flexible providing excellent durability, however, we noted that the lenses popped free during testing.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking a competent photochromic lens for under $100.
Callaway Merlin
Primary Lens
|
P2X |
Price
|
$92.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
27th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
16th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
9th |
Score
|
57 |
Test Notes:
The Merlin’s polarized P2X lens offers a moderate cooling effect coupled with above average light transmission. The Merlin received its best scores in the durability and glare categories, the latter is a bit surprising given the frame’s design. Clarity and Contrast were rated below average, and some testers felt the lens was too bright.
Recommended For: Golfers looking for a bright, durable polarized lens at a reasonably affordable price.
REKS Slingblade
Primary Lens
|
LUMOLUX Brown |
Price
|
$50.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
25th |
Glare
|
5th |
Coverage
|
20th |
Phobicity
|
30th |
Durability
|
4th |
Score
|
55.66 |
Test Notes:
The Slingblade largely mirrors the performance of the Wrap Around, however some testers felt the lens isn’t big enough to provide full coverage, and sometimes interferes with the field of view. We also found that the Slingblade was more susceptible to scratching presumably due to more of the lens being exposed as a result of the rimless design. Frame has a tendency to slip and slide down the nose. At $50, it’s still a relative bargain.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking an affordable, nearly indestructible pair of polarized sunglasses suitable for play in the brightest of conditions.
Under Armour Octane
Primary Lens
|
Gameday Multi |
Price
|
$99.99 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
19th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
16th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
26th |
Score
|
55.16 |
Test Notes:
While the silver mirror design of UA’s Gameday Multipurpose lens will have its appeal, the clarity and contrast aren’t on par with the best sunglasses in this test. While the frame is sturdy, we noted that the lenses moved around quite a bit during testing. The frame is comfortable, and we were impressed by the adjustable multi-position bridge which helps ensure a no-slip fit.
Recommended For: Golfers who prefer a mirrored lens with true neutral color rendition.
Tifosi Crit
Primary Lens
|
GT (Golf Tennis) |
Price
|
$69.95 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
13th |
Glare
|
27th |
Coverage
|
31st |
Phobicity
|
26th |
Durability
|
9th |
Score
|
54.75 |
Test Notes:
The Tifosi Crit leverages the company’s GT (Golf/Tennis lens). While the clarity and contrast are above average, the lens itself is too short, which causes the edge to fall into the field of vision far too often. That shortcoming is reflected in the Crit’s coverage score. On a more positive note, the Crit offering includes two additional sets of lenses. The EC (extreme contrast) lens offers a rose tint that we really like for golf. The Smoke Gray lens is a neutral alternative for bright days.
Recommended For: Golfers looking for an exceptionally affordable multi-lens solution.
Electric Knoxville S
Primary Lens
|
OHM Grey |
Price
|
$120.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
31st |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
26th |
Phobicity
|
1st |
Durability
|
19th |
Score
|
54.66 |
Test Notes:
A great everyday waling around lens, The OHM Grey was rated as too dark by some testers, creating the perception that it lacks the downrange clarity and contrast (and the wow factor) of Electric’s spectacular OHM+ Rose lens. As with the Fade, the Knoxville frame puts fashion before golf function, as a result, we don’t recommend it for golfers who swing with their shades on. Hydro and Oleophobicity are best in class and Electric’s blue light filtration is an undeniable plus.
Recommended For: Golfers looking for a darker, neutral, alternative to Electric’s OHM+ Red and OHM+ Green lenses.
NYX PRO Z-17
Primary Lens
|
Arctic Blue |
Price
|
$79.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
19th |
Glare
|
27th |
Coverage
|
20th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
11th |
Score
|
54.53 |
Test Notes:
As you would expect, the Pro Z-17’s Arctic Blue lens received the same scores it did in NYX’s Falcon frame. Testers noted that the Z-17 frame is more susceptible to glare to decreased coverage. While we don’t have a category to quantify it, testers told us the quality of the frame felt a tick below the others in the test.
Recommended For: Golfers looking for a bright, neutral lens at an affordable price.
Callaway Raptor
Primary Lens
|
Green Gray Mirror |
Price
|
$89.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
27th |
Glare
|
9th |
Coverage
|
16th |
Phobicity
|
14th |
Durability
|
22nd |
Score
|
54.43 |
Test Notes:
Another affordable polarized option, the Raptor lets in plenty of light and leaves colors the way nature made them. While not in any best in class discussion in any category, with a relatively equal balance of good and bad, there’s nothing particularly wrong with the Raptor either.
Recommended For: Budget conscious golfers looking for a sports style frame with a polarized lens.
Maho Uluwatu
Primary Lens
|
Polarized Amber |
Price
|
$95.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
9th |
Glare
|
31st |
Coverage
|
28th |
Phobicity
|
26th |
Durability
|
7th |
Score
|
53.72 |
Test Notes:
While our testers liked the Uluwatu’s Polarized Amber lens nearly as much as Electric’s OHM+ Rose, we found it’s not particularly well-suited for golf. The small, flat front frame doesn’t provide nearly enough coverage and that makes it highly susceptible to glare and reflections from all sides. Some testers felt they needed to remove the glasses before putting. Playability concerns aside, Maho is certainly an option for golfers who don’t swing with their shades on. While it makes colors pop, the amber lens’ HDR-like resolution comes without a pronounced color cast and that puts it near the top of our list for everyday wear. Much like the OHM+ Rose, we’re a great frame away from a tremendous golf lens.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking a superb and affordable everyday lens. Potentially suitable for those who remove their shades to swing.
Maui Jim Red Sands
Primary Lens
|
Blue Hawaii |
Price
|
$229.00 |
Clarity & Contrast
|
19th |
Glare
|
29th |
Coverage
|
26th |
Phobicity
|
1st |
Durability
|
14th |
Score
|
52.94 |
Test Notes:
Largely unremarkable, testers found the Red Sands’ polarized Blue Hawaii lens to be just ok on the golf course. Lens produces a slight warming effect. Fame is exceptionally light despite its larger footprint. Like the other Maui Jim lenses in this test, the Blue Hawaii received superior scores for hydro and oleophobic as well as lens durability. Coverage is less than stellar, leading to glare issues.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking a superb, reasonably priced everyday lens. Potentially suitable for those who remove their shades to swing.
Test Notes:
A tester favorite that offers outstanding clarity and contrast. PRIZM lens doesn’t feel overly bright despite offering among the highest stated VLT%. Lens offers excellent hydro/oleophobicity. Best lens for revealing contours of the putting surface. Its hyper-aggressive rose tint that enhances contrast while giving skies a purple hue may be a bit overcooked for some golfers. Frameless design is both lightweight and comfortable.
Recommended For: Golfers seeking a high-contrast, detail enhancing lens and who aren’t bothered by an aggressive color shift.