How To Select The Best Sunglasses For Golf
A round of golf can be relaxing but still competitive, especially on some of the most spectacular courses across the country. However, those golf courses can offer plenty of challenges even without hitting a ball. They might be windswept or surrounded by water. You might end up covered in sand from a bunker or exposed to the raging midday sunshine with little or no shade. Even before you’ve veered off the fairway with an errant drive, you could be fighting a losing battle.
That’s where your equipment is important, and we’re not talking about what is in your bag or the cart you take from one hole to the next. No, choosing the right sunglasses for golfing is essential when it comes to a successful game. Whether to optimize your vision, protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, or enhance your performance on the course, the right pair of shades could give you the edge. You’ve seen top professionals such as Phil Mickelson wearing sunglasses, but how should you go about choosing your pair? What are you on the lookout for?
To ensure you pick the ideal pair, consider these three key points:
UV Protection
Protecting your eyes from UV rays is paramount, not just on a day-to-day basis, but for the longevity of your eyesight. You’ll be standing in a bunker time and again if your eyes suffer too much damage, so on a sunny day, UV protection is important. Exposure to UV rays can lead to eye damage and discomfort, so prioritize sunglasses that provide adequate shielding.
Look for sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. Most sunglasses today have their UV protection embedded in the lens, as opposed to it being coated afterward, so look for that as standard. A good brand will also list its UV protection on its label, and some brands, such as Smith, don’t sell glasses that do not offer 100% UV protection. Their Lowdown 2 glasses, in particular, are great for golfers.
Lens Tint and Polarization
The color of your lens could make a difference to your golf game. Try to select lenses with a neutral gray, brown, or green tint. These tints enhance contrast and reduce glare, ensuring optimal visibility on the course – in the case of the Oakley Prizm lenses, the tint can even accentuate your vision and help pick out certain colors and shades.
Additionally, polarized sunglasses significantly reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water and sand, enhancing your ability to see details and contours on the fairways and greens. You don’t have to fork out hundreds of dollars for polarized lenses if you’re only playing golf every so often – Eyebuydirect has models such as Disclosure and Event, which are around the $40 mark and will have you focused purely on the hole, not dazzled by the water surrounding the green.
Shape and Coverage
Golfers should consider sunglasses with a wraparound or semi-wraparound shape. These designs offer ample coverage for your eyes and peripheral vision, blocking out light from various angles. This is particularly important during swings and putts when distractions can hinder your focus – the Callaway Izzo Golf Sungear are perfect. They’ve been designed not only to have maximum coverage but also to be a comfortable fit.
A comfortable fit is crucial for hours spent on the golf course. Look for sunglasses with adjustable nose pads and temple tips to ensure a secure and personalized fit. This prevents discomfort and slippage during your swings and movements.
Conclusion
By focusing on these key points, you'll be well-equipped to choose sunglasses that complement your golfing experience. Remember that the right sunglasses not only protect your eyes but also contribute to your overall comfort and performance on the course.
