The argument for polarized sunglasses is pretty simple. They protect your eyes from dangerous UV rays while cutting down on the glare from the sun, especially if you’re around water. Thankfully, you don’t have to pay a fortune for a better view. Here are five different sets of polarized glasses that get high marks from users, and they’re all $50 or less.
Tifosi Optics Swank ($50)
Tifosi is best known for its super-light and durable shades for cyclists and runners, but the Swank takes its shatterproof and scratch-resistant polarized lenses and puts them in a more stylish frame. You still get the no-slip nose pads and secure fit so you can wear them with confidence, whether you’re bagging a peak or bagging your groceries.
Sunski Headlands ($48)
Sunski makes some of our favorite budget-friendly sunglasses, though most of its frames fall in the $50-to-$100 category. The Headland offers classic style for a bargain-bin price. You get Sunski’s polarized lenses and its lifetime warranty. Plus if you scratch your lenses, Sunski will send you new ones for just $12.
Knockaround Fast Lanes ($25)
Knockaround, one of the most popular budget sunglass brands, lets you upgrade to polarized lenses on any frame for an extra $5. We’re suckers for these tortoiseshell frames. Will they last forever? Probably not. But they’re $25.
SunCloud Sable ($50)
SunCloud definitely offers the most polarized options in the sub-$50 category, with every style you could possibly imagine. If you really want to look sporty, go with the Sable, which has curved polarized lenses to give you full coverage, a hydrophilic nose, ear grips for a secure fit, and “bottomless” frames to cut weight.
Blue Planet Hayes ($35)
Aviator styling meets eco-warrior ethics in the Hayes, which has frames made from recycled materials and polarized lenses to cut the glare. But let’s face it: you’re buying these glasses so you can bring out your inner Walter Sobchak from The Big Lebowski.