The Best Driving Sunglasses of 2023

There’s nothing better than flying down the road, feeling the engine hum, and bobbing your head to your favorite tunes. But there’s no worse feeling than squinting into the sun while you do it, struggling to see clearly through the relentless glare.

A good pair of driving sunglasses leaves you free to enjoy your drive and feel the nuance of your vehicle’s handling and response without any distraction or discomfort from the sun. Nearly as important, the best driving sunglasses also go a long way in upping your cool factor. What do iconic Hollywood driving scenes have in common? Sunglasses.

After years of ongoing on-the-road testing, we compiled this list of the best driving sunglasses on the market. At the end of our list, be sure to check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide as well as our comparison chart. And if you have some questions, take a look at our list of frequently asked questions.

Otherwise, scroll through to see all of our recommended buys or jump to the category you’re looking for:

Best Overall

Maho Sundance

Specs

• Best for Long road trips, overcast conditions
• Lens material Polycarbonate
• Frame Size Medium/large
• Lens Shape Aviator
• Polarized Yes

(Photo/Maho)

Pros

• Good value
• Filters out glare
• Versatile

Cons

• Like many polarized styles, these glasses make LCD screens difficult to read

Austin Beck-Doss

Pairing classic aviator style with modern tech, the Sundance from Maho ($195) is among our favorite driving sunglasses for road trips. The acetate and stainless steel frames are feather-light and provide a clear view of the road, while the patented Zuma earpieces provide a perfect no-slip fit.

The polarized grey lenses block glare (though they do make LCD screens hard to read). They can also be fitted with prescription lenses. We tried these glasses out on rides around town and on long road trips, and they performed well on both sunny and overcast days, providing clear vision and an excellent feel.

These sunglasses offer unbeatable value. They have the look and feel of a high-end pair but cost less than half the cost of many high-end models. If you’re looking for a great-looking, top-performance pair of sunglasses for the road (or really anywhere you want to look cool), the Sundance is a great option.

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Best Budget

Merry’s Unisex Polarized Aluminum Sunglasses

Specs

• Best for Folks on a budget
• Lens material Nylon
• Frame Size Medium
• Lens Shape Square
• Polarized  Yes

(Photo/Merry's)

Pros

• Cheap
• Included case
• Good value

Cons

• Not the most durable

Austin Beck-Doss

If you’re shopping on a budget, it’s hard to go wrong with these sunglasses from Merry’s ($13). The aluminum frames are lightweight, and the lenses come in eight color options.

The lenses are also polarized, which is a rarity in sunglasses in this price range. You won’t find the bells and whistles that you would on some of the pricier options on this list, but if you’re just looking for a solid pair of glasses (or want to buy several different lens colors), these are a great option.

Plus, you don’t have to treat these as precious. It’s nice to own a reliable pair of glasses that can stand to be tossed around a little. If they break, you’re only out $13.

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Best Aviator Style

Ray-Ban Classic Aviator

Specs

• Best for Classic aesthetics, great peripheral vision
• Lens material Crystal
• Frame Size Medium
• Lens Shape Aviator
• Polarized No

(Photo/Ray-Ban)

Pros

• Sleek classic appearance
• Durable lenses
• Plentiful peripheral vision, minimal bind spots

Cons

• Classic model not polarized

Austin Beck-Doss

Obviously, we had to include the classics. These iconic sunglasses were originally made for U.S. aviators in 1937 and have been a mainstay in U.S. culture ever since.

Not one to rest on its laurels, Ray-Ban’s current aviators sport g-15 polarized lenses for amazing clarity. The instantly recognizable lens shape gives drivers a wide area of coverage. Additionally, the minimal wireframes allow for a wide range of peripheral vision.

Ray-Ban offers the Classic Aviator ($163) in a wide variety of lens and frame color combos, as well as lens width so that you can personalize your style with the perfect set.

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Best Over Frames

Fiore Over Glasses Sunglasses

Specs

• Best for Wearing over prescription glasses
• Lens material Plastic
• Frame Size Medium
• Lens Shape Wrap around rectangle
• Polarized Yes

(Photo/Fiore)

Pros

• Affordable
• Compatible with most prescription glasses
• Cuts glare

Cons

• Slightly bulky

Austin Beck-Doss

If you wear glasses and want to avoid a pricey set of prescription sunglasses, this over-the-glasses option from Fiore ($17) is a great way to go. They fit comfortably over most pairs of glasses without creating that look that will immediately label you an octogenarian.

In addition, the lenses block both UVA and UVB rays, while the polarization helps cut glare. The lenses extend around the frame to either side, allowing for a wide field of vision without exposing your eyes to the sun’s rays.

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Best for Extreme Glare

Oakley Holbrook Mix 9

Specs

• Best for Driving on bright summer days
• Lens material Plastic
• Frame Size Medium
• Lens Shape Rectangle
• Polarized Yes

(Photo/Oakley)

Pros

• Impressive contrast enhancement
• Durable frame
• Handsome styling

Cons

• Expensive for plastic lenses

Austin Beck-Doss

The latest version of Oakley’s classic frame, the Holbrook Mix 9 Mix Prizm ($201) lenses, controls light transmission, enhances contrast, and increases overall visibility.

The frame has been updated with stainless steel reinforcements while retaining the comfort and style of the original. For bright days and summer driving, these lenses are ideal for providing a crystal-clear view. Plus, the styling and fit are on-point.

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Most Stylish

Persol Steve McQueen

Specs

• Best for All-day comfort, timeless style
• Lens material Acetate
• Frame Size Small/medium
• Lens Shape Round/teardrop
• Polarized No

(Photo/Persol)

Pros

• Stylish
• Quality materials

Cons

• Expensive for non-polarized glasses

Austin Beck-Doss

Steve McQueen wore these sunnies ($439) in the legendary film The Thomas Crown Affair. If that fact alone doesn’t make you rush out and buy these handmade Italian shades, the durable acetate frame, three-point foldability, and timeless style should do the trick.

In addition, the Meflecto tech relieves stress on your temples, which means you can rock them during your entire road trip without fatigue. And if you want to go big, they’ve also released 24-carat gold-plated lenses to celebrate this model’s anniversary (yes, you can see through them).

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Best of the Rest

Legere Round

Specs

• Best for All-day wear, rugged use
• Lens material Polycarbonate
• Frame Size Medium
• Lens Shape Round
• Polarized No

(Photo/Legere)

Pros

• Lightweight
• Durable

Cons

• Not polarized
• Some glare issues

Austin Beck-Doss

If you’re looking for a super lightweight pair of sunglasses, the Legere Round ($110) is the way to go. Weighing in at a mere 17 grams, these sunnies have a sports glasses feel with styling that would fit in at the racetrack. And that lightweight doesn’t mean fragility: Legere’s proprietary UltraCarbon frame material is extremely durable and highly flexible. You can actually sit on them without having them lose shape.

And that’s exactly what we did during testing. On one of our drive test days, a tester made the same mistake we’ve all made at least once and left the Legere Rounds on the driver’s seat. Though embarrassing, it provided the perfect confirmation of durability, as the shades kept their shape and still fit like a glove. That durable frame, combined with the scratch-resistant lens coating, makes these the lightest and most durable shades we’ve seen.

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RAEN Pierce

Specs

• Best for Bright conditions, larger face shapes
• Lens material CR-39 (glass-like resin)
• Frame Size Large
• Lens Shape Square
• Polarized No

(Photo/RAEN)

Pros

• Great fit for larger faces
• Effective on sunny days
• Durable hinges

Cons

• Not polarized

Austin Beck-Doss

The Pierce sunglasses from RAEN ($145) have an aggressive square frame. Not only does this provide a sharp, stylish look, but it also allows for bigger lenses and better sun protection, a definite must-have in the best driving sunglasses.

The lenses themselves sport tech from Carl Zeiss Vision. Carl Zeiss, a company known for its exceptional SLR and mirrorless camera lenses, builds its sunglass lenses with the same precision and quality. This provides pristine optics and top-of-the-line sun protection.

The 5-barrel hinges have embedded wire cores in the temples, and the handmade acetate frames have a polished finish.

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American Optical Original Pilot

Specs

• Best for Everyday wear, classic aviator looks
• Lens material AOLite™ Nylon
• Frame Size Medium
• Lens Shape Aviator
• Polarized No

Pros

• Lightweight
• Comfortable
• Minimalist design

Cons

• Not polarized

Austin Beck-Doss

Since their inception five decades ago, these sunglasses from American Optical ($194) have been a mainstay for U.S. military pilots. And you might even recognize them as similar AO sunglasses featured in popular media, including the classic film Taxi Driver.

The minimalist wireframe maximizes visibility while driving, and the optional polarized lenses cut glare and protect your eyes while on the road. They also come in three different sizes, so you can grab the perfect pair to fit your face.

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Maui Jim Wiki Wiki

Specs

• Best for Fans of the classic wire frame look
• Lens material Composite
• Frame Size Medium
• Lens Shape Rectangle
• Polarized Yes

Pros

• Stylish
• Quality materials

Cons

• Expensive for non-polarized glasses

Austin Beck-Doss

This list wouldn’t be complete without at least one pair of Maui Jims ($316). For driving, we like the Wiki Wiki not only because it’s fun to say but also for the minimalist wireframe as well as the warm bronze lens.

It comes in both bronze and grey lenses, but we’re particularly fond of the bronze for its ability to provide a clear view in a wide spectrum of situations. That makes these sunglasses great for varying weather conditions and cloudy days where the sun tends to disappear and reappear while you’re on the road.

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Vuarnet Swing 1612

Specs

• Best for Fans of the classic wire frame look
• Lens material Mineral glass
• Frame Size Medium
• Lens Shape Aviator
• Polarized Yes, optional

Pros

• Lightweight
• Durable
• Quality materials

Cons

• Pricey

Austin Beck-Doss

They’re pricey, but the Vuarnet Swing 1612 ($440) makes it clear where your money is going. The frame is a seemingly impossible blend of feather-light weight and extreme durability.

And the Swing’s perfect balance will sit comfortably on your face for all-day comfort while you drive. The blue polarized lenses provide terrific clarity as well, so you’ll be well-equipped for everything from a drive to the store or a road trip across the country.

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Ray-Ban Clubmaster Square

Specs

• Best for Fans of the classic ’50s Clubmaster look
• Lens material Crystal
• Frame Size Small/medium
• Lens Shape Round
• Polarized Yes

(Photo/Ray-Ban)

Pros

• Unisex style
• Quality materials
• Clear optics

Cons

• Retro style isn’t for everyone

Austin Beck-Doss

We had to include these Ray-Bans for anyone who has to share their ride — or their sunglasses. The Clubmaster Square sunglasses ($163) are comfortable and come with different color lenses to block light and give you clear vision during your drive.

Even better, these unisex sunglasses look good on both men and women so that you can leave them in the car, and your partner can use them as well. In general, it makes them a great fit for anyone who needs some glare protection. Note: avoid the blue and pink lenses, as they can distort colors like red and green.

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Driving Sunglasses Comparison Table

Why You Should Trust Us

Our team of testers has been carefully scrutinizing the sunglasses market for years. Great sunglasses are great sunglasses, but we recognize that certain characteristics are extra important while driving. To develop our list of recommendations, we drove in all sorts of conditions, from glare-heavy late afternoon sun to overcast mornings.

Leading the ongoing testing effort is Bryon Dorr, our Motors Editor with 20-plus years of expertise as an automotive journalist. Dorr drives all sorts of vehicles across all sorts of terrain, and he’s thoroughly aware of what makes a good pair of driving glasses.

While testing, we consider frame and lens quality, overall durability, glare control, peripheral vision, comfort, and style. All of the sunglasses on this list stood out from the pack. As new styles hit the market, we’ll be sure to test and consider them for this list. At any given time, our recommendations include the best of the best.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Driving Sunglasses

Eye Protection

Too much sunlight can cause permanent damage to our eyes. Just like skin, eyes need to be protected from the sun’s UV rays. A good pair of sunglasses will keep your eyes safe and comfortable on and off the road.

Driving Safety

In bright conditions, sunglasses can help us see the road ahead with clarity and accuracy. Without sunglasses, our ability to perceive depth and distance can be severely impaired, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.

Comfort

Accurate vision and eye protection aside, driving in the bright sun is just plain uncomfortable. Without driving sunglasses, prolonged squinting can lead to nagging headaches.

What To Look for When Purchasing the Best Driving Sunglasses

Your go-to driving sunglasses should elevate your experience behind the wheel. When it comes time to select the best pair for you, there are several important factors to consider. In this buyer’s guide, we will go over the primary benefits of the best driving sunglasses and thoroughly explain what you should consider before making a purchase. Don’t settle for anything less than the perfect pair of driving sunglasses.

Type of Frame

Frame Size & Shape

Before purchasing a pair of the best driving sunglasses, it is wise to make sure they are well-fitted and comfortable. Different frame sizes and shapes work better for different people. You will want a frame that will not cause discomfort or require constant adjustment. Some common frame types to check out include wayfarers, aviators, circular, rectangular, shield, and rimless. If you’re unsure what size or type of frame fits your face best, go try on some shades in person to start narrowing down your options.

Frame Type & Coverage

Glasses with wider frames and taller lens designs will provide more coverage and protection. Remember that sunlight can also enter your eyes from the side while you are driving, and it may be wise to choose a pair of glasses that provides added protection from all angles.

Frame Material

While frame material comes down to personal preference, you should be aware that some materials are more flexible and durable than others. Most driving sunglasses feature a frame made out of acetate or nylon. Both materials are lightweight and are able to hold their shape even in extreme conditions. Metal frames are common, too, though they tend to offer less wraparound protection.

Type of Lens

Polarized Lenses

A good-quality pair of driving sunglasses should have polarized lenses. When harsh sunlight reflects off surfaces, including tail lights, puddles, and stop signs, the resulting glare can be temporarily blinding. Polarized lenses can block some of this intense reflected light and make driving safer and more comfortable.

Drivers should be aware that polarized lenses can also make it difficult to see some digital dashboard displays. Before purchasing, test the sunglasses against your dash display to make sure you can still read the displays.

Gradient Lenses

Gradient lenses are lighter at the bottom and darker toward the top. While driving, the darker part of gradient lenses can block sunlight, while the lighter portion of the lens will still allow you to see your dashboard and the road clearly.

Transitions Lenses

Transition lenses are able to change from clear to dark depending on the light conditions. Because these lenses rely on direct UV light to work, they probably aren’t the best choice for driving, as your car’s windshield filters out some of the sun’s UV light. Still, there are some great driving sunglasses with transition lenses.

Lens Material

Most sunglasses lenses are made from polycarbonate or glass. Glass tends to offer the best optical clarity and is also harder and more scratch-resistant. While polycarbonate lenses are not as durable, they are more lightweight and less likely to break upon impact.

Durability

The durability of a pair of sunglasses depends on materials, craftsmanship, and weight. In general, glass lenses are more scratch-resistant, while polycarbonate lenses are less likely to shatter under impact. Acetate and nylon frames strike a good balance between hardiness and flexibility. When you aren’t wearing your glasses, keep them protected in a place where they will not be scratched or damaged.

Price

The price of a pair of driving sunglasses can vary from under $50 to well over $400. Many cheaper pairs will not be polarized or provide adequate UV protection. More expensive sunglasses may include higher-quality materials and lens technology. We always recommend making your selection based on comfort and performance rather than price.

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