Julie Des Jardin
It’s rare to see a pro wearing sunglasses in tournaments or Slams; however, many wear them during practice. But for recreational or college-level athletes, it’s pretty common to don a pair of sunnies on the court. Sunglasses not only protect your eyes from harsh UV rays, but those made with special tech like polarized lenses (for optimal color contrast) can help to take your game to the next level.
What to look for
When shopping for sunglasses to wear while you play, you need a pair that will stay in place during your quick changes in direction. You also need to make sure that they won’t bounce, fog up, or slip around during a long sweaty match. But most importantly, you need shades that allow you to have the sharpest, clearest vision of the ball, court, and lines.
I prefer sunglasses that are breathable, stable, and have a lens color that is comfortable for my eyes on the court. It’s all about personalized comfort, so I recommend trying as many different styles before buying a pair if you’re able.
Don’t know where to start? Below are some of the best sunglasses for tennis that we’ve tried out, along with our recommendations. Consider giving one or two a shot today!
Smith Boomtown Active Sunglasses ($209)
One of the best sunglasses for tennis is the Smith Boomtown Active Sunglasses for those who hate the thought of the sun sneaking through the sides of your shades. The lens height is 135 mm wide by 51 mm tall, so nothing is getting past this smudge and moisture-resistant shield. And, thanks to the non-slip grips on the nose and temples, they stay in place as you hustle on the court.
Pros:
- Full coverage, wrap-around style
- Non-slip grips keep them in place
- ChromaPop polarized lenses
Cons:
- Not the best choice for narrow faces
- A little on the pricey side
Goodr OG Sunglasses ($25)
These are some of the best AND inexpensive sunglasses for tennis. This company’s “Flamingo Eye” technology lens was initially created with golf in mind. Lucky for us players, this tech has the same polarized HD high-contrast that enhances the color of the tennis ball on the court. The no-slip coating on the nose bridge keeps the sunglasses securely in place, too – no matter how much you sweat! And did we mention the incredible price point?! You could literally afford to have a matching pair for all your tennis outfits! (Our favorite color is Flamingos on a Booze Cruise because PINK! … and booze, lol!)
And doesn’t our editor Jenuine look freakin’ fantastic in every pair she has? Heck yeah, she does!
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Pros:
- Great price
- Lenses have UV400 and salt-water protection
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- No-slip coating on nose bridge
- Many color choices
Cons:
- Couldn’t find one!
Maui Jim Hikina Polarized Rimless Sunglasses ($199)
You’ll barely notice the Maui Jim Hikina Polarized Rimless Sunglasses on your face, as they’re the thinnest, lightest lens made by this brand. The PolarizedPlus2 rimless lens also eliminates glare from the sun while providing the color contrast you need on the court. The nose grips also allow proper airflow; they won’t slip out of place when you sweat.
Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight
- Fully customizable: choose both frame and lens colors
- Comes with accessories: tri-fold case and cleaning cloth
Cons:
- Expensive
Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep ($202)
Our list of best sunglasses for tennis would not be complete without these Oakleys. The fab frames of the Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep Sunglasses pay homage to the brand’s throwback style with an extended field of view for optimal coverage. The sporty, lightweight design has a top vent built into the frame to allow for airflow so you stay cool and comfortable. And the Prizm lens technology enhances color and contrast on the court, so you can see all the details you need.
Pros:
- Fashionable
- Full coverage
- Fully customizable: choose both frame and lense colors
Cons:
- Expensive
Bollé Bolt 2.0 ($140)
An upgrade to the brand’s original sunglasses, the Bollé Bolt 2.0 has lenses that enhance color by 30 percent and depth perception. The lightweight nylon frame is lined with Thermogrip rubber to keep the frame in place, and the adjustable nose grips give you a personalized fit. These come in 10 different color options, too.
Pros:
- Enhanced depth perception
- Lightweight
- Personalized fit
- Prescription compatible
Cons:
- No wrap-around coverage
alo Speed Sunglasses ($140)
Fashion meets function in this pair of alo Speed Sunglasses. We love the oversized, wraparound frames that have lenses with an anti-fog treatment on the interior side and a scratch-resistant layer on the exterior. Adjust the rubber nose pads to fit your face.
Pros:
- come with accessories: soft cloth pouch and hard protective case
Cons:
- the style isn’t for everyone
100% Hypercraft Sport Performance Frameless Sunglasses ($98)
Make a bold statement on the court in these 100% Hypercraft Sport Performance Frameless Sunglasses with full-coverage, bright sunglasses with a wraparound style to block rays from all angles. The scratch and crack-resistant lenses also have ventilation built into the shield at optimal and aerodynamic angles. The sunglasses glasses are also very lightweight – only 23 grams – which won’t make them a noticeable distraction during your match.
Pros:
- Wraparound coverage
- Superior ventilation
Cons:
- Style is not for everyone
- On the pricey side
ALMA Plant-Based Polarized Sunglasses ($159)
Don’t worry if these ALMA Plant-Based Polarized Sunglasses fall off your face during your match—they are both impact and scratch-resistant. It can get expensive if you’re breaking many sunglasses. These are awesome because they’re simple and don’t have any malleable properties. You can even wear them off the court! And because the frames and lenses are made from plant-based materials, they are stronger, clearer and easier on the planet than other sunglasses made from petroleum-based plastics.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly design
- Prescription compatible
Cons:
- Made for narrow faces