When adventuring into the elements, it's essential to have a good pair of sunglasses to protect the eyes from the sun's harmful rays. There's much to consider-UV protection, durability, comfort, and more. Having a high quality pair of sunglasses can make your time outdoors significantly more enjoyable, but a bad pair can make it lame. After all, no one likes squinting and the headache that comes with low quality lenses or poorly-fitting shades. For women, a pair of sunglasses that properly fits smaller heads is typically called for, but we shouldn't have to compromise on the features and quality found in the men's versions. Here are our picks for the top five best sunglasses for outdoorsy women.
The Fashionable and Functional Pick
Oakley Cohort Sunglasses - Amazon, $142
These shades are the real deal. The Oakley Plutonite lenses offer 100% UV Protection, filtering all UVA, UVB, UVC, and harmful blue light up to 400mm. On top of that, the lightweight Plutonite lens material offers superior comfort, clarity, and protection against impact and ultraviolet radiation. The patented High Definition Optics (HDO) provides excellent optical clarity and razor-sharp vision at every angle. The Cohort's stress-resistant frame is lightweight and durable for all-day comfort and protection. Oakley's injection molded thermoplastic O-Matter frame provides improved strength and flexibility over traditional acetate. It is built to withstand shifting or deforming over time. Oakley's three-point fit provides comfort and performance, holding lenses in precise optical alignment. Contact only happens at the bridge of the nose and behind the temples. This model is popular with outdoor adventurers for a good reason. They have all the bases covered.
The Budget Choice From an Emerging Brand
Tifosi Shirley Polarized Sunglasses - Amazon, $25
The Tifosi Shirley Polarized Sunglasses pack a lot of punch for just a little bling. They are lightweight, have scratch-resistant lenses, and the polarization reduces eye strain. One unique feature is the hydrophilic nose pads that increase grip the more the user sweats. Tifosi Glide technology allows the frame to slide comfortably and provides an anti-bounce fit with an integrated hinge that never pulls hair. These shades are designed for maximum comfort and usability. Standing firm as the most economical option on this list, the Tifosi Shirley Polarized Sunglasses retail between $25 and $50.
The Eco-Friendly Pick With Plant Resin Frames
Native Eyewear Acadia Polarized Sunglasses - Amazon, $89
These really lovely shades work for all kinds of outdoor activities. The Native Eyewear Acadia Polarized Sunglass frames are made from bio-based plant resin. This high-performance material is exceptionally lightweight yet durable enough to resist temperature extremes. The lenses on these bad boys are something to write home about. The oleophobic and hydrophobic coating resists water, dust, dirt, oil, and fingerprints while preserving the appearance of the lens against wear and tear. The injection-molded lenses are crafted for visual clarity, and provide 100% UV protection. The Native Eyewear premium lenses block up to four times more infrared light than regular polarized lenses. The Native Eyewear Acadia Polarized Sunglasses retails for $89 to $100.
The New Pair You Can Splurge On
Shwood Camp Trail Sunglasses - $149
Built for Adventure-that is the promise of Shwood Camp sunglasses. These shades can live up to that promise with sturdy frames (also made from plant-based materials) and solid UV protection. The included carrying cord is handy because it allows the user to take the sunglasses off and keep them readily accessible. As a bonus, these are packaged in an adorable sleeping bag travel pouch. The Shwood Camp Trail Sunglasses retail for $149.
The Active Sporty Shades
Julbo Camino Spectron 4 Sunglasses - Amazon, $55
Popular with hikers, climbers, and bicyclists, the Julbo Camino Spectron 4 Sunglasses are technically unisex but have just what an adventuring lady needs. The photochromic Spectron 4 lens offers high protection from sun exposure. The removable side shields allow even further protection, and the curved temples allow a secure hold on the head. The Julbo Camino Spectron 4 Sunglasses retail between $55 and $75.
With so many options on the market, there are sure to be others that outdoorsy women love. Which models would you add to this list?
