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The 5 Best Polarized Sunglasses for Women

Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. 

Searching for the best polarized sunglasses for women? Look no more. There are hundreds of options available online or in the mall, but the right pair of sunnies for you needs to work for your face shape, budget, and general aesthetic. I'm sure you have seen the many designs that include a pair of stylish sunglasses, or you've fallen in love with a pair that your neighbor was wearing while on his or her morning run. What works for you may not work for someone else.

We scoured through multiple options to find the best polarized options for women. Polarized sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement — they serve a functional purpose. These anti-glare lenses reduce light glare and eyestrain and improve vision and safety in the sun. they have a special chemical applied to them to filter light, so that some of the light is blocked from passing through the lens. The reason why people prefer polarized sunglasses is to battle sun glare; excessive time under the sun can trigger headaches and heat stroke.

This is the last thing you want to experience when exploring the outdoors. When hiking or trail running, you'll want a pair that keeps your eyes safe from harmful UV rays and debris. (Sunglasses can keep dirt out of your eyes!). So, if you are the type to engage in outdoor activities like hiking, trail running, or fishing, below are the best options for you.

1. Our Favorite Sunnies

SMITH Womens Caper Lifestyle Sunglasses - Amazon, $179.99

This pair of sunglasses are stylish and provide superior eye protection in any outdoor situation. In fact, reviewers love how they are ideal for hiking, surfing and outdoor biking. They are a modern style, but not too modern that they will go out of style come next year. The brand has created their lenses with a proprietary ChromaPop lens technology which helps see color with more clarity and detail. Other advantages of this pair is a secure fit, and a wide number of colors to pick from.

2. A Classic Pair of Sunglasses

RB8313 CARBON FIBRE - Sunglass Hut, $269 

Rayban has been a premiere maker of sunglasses for decades. They have proven that as a brand they produce some of the most fashionable, luxurious, and protective eyewear for both men and women. This particular style of "pilot" sunglasses in a polished brown color are sold for under $100 and are a unisex option. If you are looking for an option with a pop of color, then you can select another color in the same style. The polarized lens makes for better clarity, and these glasses are also prescription-friendly. Many reviewers love this style so much that they've bought it in different colors and slightly different variations!

3. A Pair You Can Customize

Oakley Frogskins - Sunglass Hut, $190

Starting at $120, this line of sunglasses are ideal for outdoor activities because of their lightweightness and durable quality. The funky colors are iconic of the Oakley brand. In fact, Oakley became popular in the 1980s when The Terminator hit the box office and became a style hit. Celebrities, musicians, and even politicians began sporting this classic style. Decades later, they are still popular, thanks in part to the PRIZM lenses that are designed to distract colors while highlighting details in the environment. This actually allows for increased vividness and improved reaction time. Reviewers love the slightly thicker lens that give them better peripheral vision.

4. A Stylish Pick for Outdoor Adventures & Everyday Fun

Dipsea - Sunski, $58

When it comes to style, comfort, and optics, Sunski checks all the boxes. These polarized sunglasses are comfy and cute, making them the perfect pair for everyday outings, including trail runs. Sasha gave them a five-star review and wrote, "Fit is perfect. I can go for a run and they don't slide down!" Also, round sunglasses are underrated — they look great on lots of face shapes! Choose from eight different patterns.

5. Quality Sunglasses Under $30

TOREGE Sports Polarized Sunglasses - Amazon, $24.99 

These lightweight sunglasses are great frames for outdoor fun like cycling, fishing, climbing, and more. They're affordable and impact and scratch-resistant. Keep them in a case when not in use, but enjoy the peace of mind that these will be pretty tough to destroy. If round sunglasses aren't your thing, keep it classic with these rectangle frames. They're a great pick if you want an Oakley look on a budget! Choose from over 10 different colors.

This piece was written by Pooja Shah with some updates by the Wide Open Spaces Commerce Team.

NEXT: THE BEST SUNGLASSES FOR MEN WHO HIKE, FISH & GO CAMPING