{"id":19757,"date":"2025-04-01T08:13:00","date_gmt":"2025-04-01T07:13:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.glassesdirect.co.uk\/blog\/?p=19757"},"modified":"2025-04-01T16:10:48","modified_gmt":"2025-04-01T15:10:48","slug":"top-5-best-hiking-sunglasses","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.glassesdirect.co.uk\/blog\/top-5-best-hiking-sunglasses\/","title":{"rendered":"Our guide to the top 5 best hiking sunglasses"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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If you\u2019re a keen hiker or backpacker, then you\u2019ll know wearing sunglasses makes a world of difference when embarking on an exhilarating adventure out in the elements. The right pair of hiking sunglasses will not only protect your eyes from distracting UV rays, but will also shield you from wind, dust, debris and glare for improved comfort and visibility when you\u2019re on the move. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunglasses are a must-have piece of gear when enjoying your outdoor adventures, whether you’re hiking a long-distance trail, exploring the local park, or taking your mountain bike with you. But with so many options out there, where do you even start? We know it can be overwhelming and that\u2019s why we\u2019ve broken it down for you so can find the ideal pair of sunglasses and equip yourself for even the most challenging of trails. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Why do you need sunglasses for hiking?<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Sun protection<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

When hiking outdoors, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can damage your eyes over time, increasing the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and other eye problems. All Glasses Direct\u2019s sunglasses<\/a> <\/strong>come with 100% UV protection<\/a><\/strong> (which includes UVA and UVB). This means you can relax and focus on the trail ahead, knowing your eyes are safe, even on bright, sunny days in the mountains, or along open areas like the coast. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Minimise glare<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The sun reflecting off surfaces like snow, water and sand can cause glare making it harder for you to see. Anti-glare eyewear,<\/a> <\/strong>specifically, sunglasses, help reduce this effect for improved visibility when hiking in areas with lots of sunlight, or high-altitude environments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Improve visual comfort<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Trekking <\/strong>often involves long hours in the sun. Sunglasses reduce squinting, eye strain and discomfort caused by bright light, allowing you to focus on the trail ahead. <\/p>\n\n\n

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Protection from the elements<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Hiking sunglasses should ideally shield your eyes from wind, dust, insects, branches, sand and debris, especially in open or dry environments like deserts, high altitudes, or coastal areas. <\/p>\n\n\n

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What type of sunglasses tints are best for hiking?<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Glasses Direct has a selection of sun tints<\/a><\/strong> and lens options which are suitable for a variety of uses.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Polarised sunglasses<\/strong><\/a> are ideal for hiking because they block blinding glare reflected off wet and shiny surfaces. This minimises eye strain for improved visual comfort, allowing you to focus on your performance. Polarised lenses will also enhance contrast so you can see your surroundings clearly.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Photochromic lenses<\/a> <\/strong>adjust to changing light conditions, darkening in bright sunlight and lightening in lower light conditions. They are perfect for on-the-go protection, especially if you\u2019re travelling between very bright and shadowy environments like from open air to forest. Or, if you’re trekking on holiday, you might want to pop into a few museums or shops along the way. Photochromic lenses adapt to the light around them so you don’t have to worry about packing both your glasses and sunglasses during your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Key design features to look out for:<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

We have highlighted some of the key design aspects to consider when it comes to choosing a reliable pair of sunglasses for hiking. Keep an eye out for these features in particular:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Frame Durability: <\/strong>Look for flexible and durable materials such as metal<\/strong><\/a> and acetate<\/a><\/strong> that can withstand the rigors of hiking without breaking or warping. Ideally, you\u2019ll also want the frame to have a lightweight feel especially on long-distance hikes when bulky sunglasses will inevitably start to feel heavy or dig in.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Fit and Comfort: <\/strong>Sunglasses should fit snugly but comfortably on your face. Adjustable nose pads and temple grips are great features to ensure a secure fit, helping you avoid slippage when you\u2019re climbing, jumping, or crossing obstacles.\u00a0Especially with more intense activities like trail running. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Coverage: <\/strong>When deciding on the best sunglasses for mountain hiking, good coverage is key. Larger lenses, or wraparound sunglasses provide better eye protection from the sun and environmental elements by covering more of your face. This is especially important at higher altitudes when you\u2019re more exposed. Sunglasses that sit closer to your face will stop any low sun rays from reaching your eyes.\u00a0We also recommend investing in side shields for your glasses. These will provide enhanced coverage.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Lens coating: <\/strong>Adding protective coatings<\/strong><\/a> to your lenses can help make them more durable. For instance, scratch-resistance will prevent minor lens abrasions. However, it\u2019s just as important that you take good care of your sunglasses by putting them in their case when not in use. You should also clean them correctly<\/a> <\/strong>with an appropriate cloth and try to avoid storing them at the bottom of your pack, especially if they have a loose or flexible case. After all, good quality lenses still need to be taken good care of!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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What colour lenses are best for hiking? <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to deciding on what colour tint<\/strong><\/a> to have for your sunglasses, there are a few options that stand out. We have highlighted them for you here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n