Choosing the right pair of sunglasses is about more than just style; it’s a critical decision for your long-term eye health. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause significant damage over time, making 100% UV protection the most important feature in any pair of shades. A good pair of sunglasses should be a reliable companion, shielding your eyes while complementing your personal style and activity level.
From timeless aviators built for pilots to modern, sport-ready wraps designed for athletes, the market offers a vast selection. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best men’s sunglasses that combine superior UV protection with durability, comfort, and standout design. Whether you’re fishing, driving, or simply enjoying a sunny day, there’s a perfect pair here for you.
Our Top Picks for Men’s UV-Protective Sunglasses
- Under Armour Men’s Blitzing Wrap Sunglasses
- Ray-Ban Rb3025 Classic Aviator Sunglasses
- Oakley Men’s OO9102 Holbrook Square Sunglasses
- Maui Jim Men’s and Women’s Peahi Polarized Wrap Sunglasses
- Costa Del Mar Fantail PRO Polarized Sunglasses
- ARNETTE Sunglasses AN 4202 Rubber Black
- Persol PO0649 Aviator Sunglasses
- Shady Rays Talon Men’s Polarized Sunglasses
- Blenders Eyewear Canyon Polarized Sunglasses
- Randolph Engineering Aviator Polarized Sunglasses
Under Armour Men’s Blitzing Wrap Sunglasses
Built for the active individual, the Under Armour Blitzing Wrap Sunglasses offer a secure and comfortable fit that stays in place during movement. The wrap-around design and rubber non-slip temples ensure they won’t slide down your face, whether you’re on a run or just going about your day. They are constructed with the brand’s performance-driven philosophy, providing solutions you can rely on.
Most importantly, these sunglasses feature lenses that defend against 100% of harmful UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. The combination of a durable injected front and a secure fit makes these an excellent choice for sports and outdoor activities where both protection and stability are key.
Ray-Ban Rb3025 Classic Aviator Sunglasses
The Ray-Ban Rb3025 is the quintessential aviator, a timeless design that has defined cool for generations. Featuring a classic gold metal frame and the iconic G-15 green lenses, this unisex model offers a look that is both sophisticated and versatile. It’s a piece of eyewear history that remains a top choice for its enduring style.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, these sunglasses are coated with 100% UV protection to safeguard your eyes from all harmful rays. The frames are also prescription-ready, allowing you to enjoy this classic look with your vision correction. Each pair comes with a signature case and cleaning cloth to help maintain its condition.
Oakley Men’s OO9102 Holbrook Square Sunglasses
The Oakley Holbrook blends a classic square silhouette with the brand’s signature modern edge and performance engineering. The Matte Black frame provides a versatile and understated style that works for a variety of face shapes. Its design successfully meets at the intersection of art and attitude, offering a contemporary look.
These sunglasses are built with Oakley’s high standards, featuring a redesigned stem architecture for improved durability and fit. The Prizm Black Polarized lenses are designed to enhance contrast and clarity while providing protection. As a practical benefit, the lenses are also prescription-ready, and a protective case is included.
Maui Jim Men’s and Women’s Peahi Polarized Wrap Sunglasses
Maui Jim is renowned for its exceptional lens technology, and the Peahi model is a prime example. These wrap-style sunglasses feature the proprietary PolarizedPlus2 technology, which does more than just block glare and 100% of UV rays. It actively enhances colors and reduces harsh reflections, revealing the world with stunning clarity and vibrancy.
Designed for durability and all-day comfort, the Peahi includes an anti-corrosive spring in the hinges for flexibility and a secure fit on various face shapes. This combination of premium style, incredible durability, and color-boosting patented technologies makes them a top-tier choice for those who value optical excellence.
Costa Del Mar Fantail PRO Polarized Sunglasses
Engineered for serious anglers and water sports enthusiasts, the Costa Fantail PRO offers premium eye protection in demanding environments. The 580G glass lenses are polarized to filter out blinding glare from the water’s surface and provide 100% UV protection. They are also known for enhancing clarity and contrast, helping you see more clearly below the surface.
These lenses go a step further by absorbing harmful High-Energy Blue Light (HEV), which boosts the perception of reds, greens, and blues. Built for long-lasting performance, the Fantail PRO features a robust barrier that resists scratches, water, oil, and sweat, making them easy to clean and maintain.
ARNETTE Sunglasses AN 4202 Rubber Black
The ARNETTE AN 4202 combines a bold, modern aesthetic with practical, everyday comfort. The frame features a rubberized black finish that provides a secure grip and a contemporary look. Its design is both stylish and functional, suitable for a wide range of daily activities and casual outdoor use.
A key benefit of these sunglasses is their lightweight frame design, which promotes all-day comfort without feeling heavy or cumbersome. For added value and protection, the sunglasses come with a protective carrying case, making them easy to store safely in a bag or pocket when not in use.
Persol PO0649 Aviator Sunglasses
Persol brings its legacy of Italian craftsmanship to the classic aviator shape with the PO0649 model. This pair features a distinctive Havana frame with a keyhole bridge, offering a refined twist on a traditional design. The green lenses complete a look that is both elegant and timeless.
As expected from a premium brand, these sunglasses include lenses coated with 100% UV protection to protect your eyes from harmful rays. To ensure your investment is protected, the sunglasses are accompanied by a high-quality protective case, safeguarding them from scratches and damage during travel or storage.
Shady Rays Talon Men’s Polarized Sunglasses
The Shady Rays Talon is built for an active lifestyle, featuring a sporty, half-frame design that is both durable and lightweight. The flexible, rimless design offers an unobstructed field of vision, while no-slip rubber grips and sweat-channeling airflow ensure a secure and comfortable fit during physical activity.
These premium polarized sunglasses provide 100% UV protection and are built to be tough, with shatter-resistant and saltwater-resistant lenses. The hydrophobic lens coating helps repel water and oil. With a standard size that fits most medium to large head sizes, the Talon is a versatile and reliable option for sports and daily wear.
Blenders Eyewear Canyon Polarized Sunglasses
Blenders Eyewear is known for its bold styles and the Canyon series is built for outdoor adventure. The Black Tundra colorway offers a stealthy, pitch-black aesthetic that is both modern and aggressive. These sunglasses are for those who want to make a statement while enjoying their favorite activities.
They feature a secure, medium-large fit that is designed to stay put during action. The fan-favorite polarized smoke lenses not only provide a cool look but also include 100% UV protection to block all harmful rays from the sun, ensuring your eyes are safe during long periods outdoors.
Randolph Engineering Aviator Polarized Sunglasses
Randolph Engineering is an American brand with a reputation for crafting exceptionally durable and high-quality eyewear, originally designed for military use. Their aviators are known for their robust construction, precise engineering, and timeless aesthetic that stands the test of time. These are sunglasses built to last for decades.
Featuring polarized lenses, they effectively cut glare while providing essential 100% UV protection. The attention to detail in the materials and craftsmanship ensures a perfect balance, comfort, and a secure fit. Choosing Randolph Engineering means investing in a piece of American manufacturing that prioritizes function and enduring style.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Sunglasses for Men with UV Protection
When I’m picking out a new pair of shades, I know it’s about way more than just looking cool. The most important job of any pair of sunglasses is to protect my eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Long-term exposure can lead to serious issues like cataracts and macular degeneration, so this isn’t a feature I ever skip on. The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get proper protection. I always look for a label or sticker that says “100% UV protection” or “UV400.” This means the lenses block all UVA and UVB rays, giving my eyes the shield they need.
Once I’ve confirmed the UV protection, I think about the lens color and material. The tint darkness has nothing to do with UV blocking—a light amber lens can offer the same protection as a deep black one. I choose the tint based on my usual activities. Gray lenses are my go-to for driving and general use because they distort color the least. For sports or contrast on cloudy days, I prefer brown or amber lenses. If I’m around water or snow a lot, I might go for a polarized pair to cut down on blinding glare. As for material, polycarbonate lenses are lightweight and impact-resistant, which is great for an active lifestyle, while glass lenses offer superior scratch resistance and optical clarity but are heavier.
Next up is fit and style. A good pair of sunglasses should feel comfortable and secure without pinching my nose or temples. I make sure the frames are wide enough for my face so I’m not looking over the top or through the sides. Wraparound styles are excellent because they block light from all angles. For style, I consider what shapes work with my face. Aviators are a timeless classic that suit most people, while wayfarers offer a sharper, more rectangular look. I see my sunglasses as a long-term accessory, so I opt for a durable frame material like acetate or high-quality metal that can handle being worn and stored daily. By focusing on protection first, then function and fit, I end up with a pair of the best sunglasses for men with UV protection that I’ll actually want to wear every time I step outside.
FAQ
What does “UV400” mean on sunglasses?
UV400 is a rating you can trust. It means the lenses are designed to block 100% of ultraviolet light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. This covers both UVA and UVB rays, which are the types that can damage your eyes and the delicate skin around them. When I see this label, I know I’m getting the highest level of sun protection available for my eyes.
Are polarized lenses the same as having UV protection?
This is a common mix-up, but they are two completely different things. Polarization is all about reducing glare from reflective surfaces like water, roads, or car hoods. It makes activities like driving or fishing much more comfortable. However, polarized lenses do not automatically provide UV protection. A lens can be polarized but not block UV rays, and vice-versa. I always check for a separate “100% UV Protection” or “UV400” label to be sure my eyes are safe.
How much should I spend on a good pair of sunglasses?
You can find excellent pairs of the best sunglasses for men with UV protection at a wide range of prices. A higher price tag often gets you better frame materials, more durable lens coatings, and designer names, but it doesn’t necessarily mean better UV protection. I’ve found fantastic, fully protective sunglasses at affordable prices from many brands. The key is to prioritize the 100% UV protection claim over the brand name or fancy features.
Do darker lenses offer better protection?
Not at all. The darkness or color of the lens tint has no relation to its ability to filter out UV radiation. A very dark lens with poor UV protection can actually be worse than a lighter one, because it causes your pupils to dilate, allowing more unfiltered UV rays to enter your eyes. The UV coating is a clear, chemical layer applied to the lens, so I never use tint darkness as a gauge for safety.
Can I get prescription sunglasses with UV protection?
Absolutely, and I highly recommend them if you wear glasses normally. Almost all prescription sunglasses come with 100% UV protection built-in. You can get them in any style you like, and you can also add polarization to cut down on glare. It’s a fantastic way to see clearly and protect your vision without needing to wear clip-ons or contact lenses.