16 Best Sunglasses for Daily Wear and Travel
16 Best Sunglasses for Daily Wear and Travel

Sunglasses are essential to any trip, whether heading to the concrete jungle or the beach. Even in rainy climates, the sun comes out eventually; when it does, you’d better be prepared! We’ve compiled a list of the best sunglasses—from those designed for rugged sports like skateboarding to models without arms. Whether you're on either end of the spectrum or somewhere in between, there’s a pair of good sunglasses for you!

Before diving into the list, you must decide what you want your sunglasses to do. Will they live in your sling or daypack until you need them on super sunny occasions? Or will you be wearing them 24/7, from your morning workout to sunset over the bay? Just like you wear different outfits for different occasions, some sunglasses fit better for particular things, and some attempt to do it all. Most entries on this list are unisex; however, a few are tailored to be the best sunglasses for women.

We’ve drafted this table to showcase what each of the models on this list does best.

Model Case Packability Durability Polarization Available UV Blocking Best Use
ROAV Eyewear Franklin Sunglasses Soft (silicone) Amazing Good Yes Yes Digital Nomad
Foldies Polarized Folding Classics (V2) Soft (leather-like) Great Great Yes Yes Digital Nomad
Sunski Avila Soft Okay Okay Yes Yes Vacation
Knockaround Premiums Black on Black/Smoke Soft Okay Good Yes Yes Vacation
Nooz Optics Cruz Hard Amazing Okay Yes Yes Digital Nomad
ThinOptics Menlo Park Sunglasses Soft Amazing Okay Yes Yes Digital Nomad
Crap Eyewear The Dropout Boogie Soft (leather-like) Okay Okay Yes Yes Casual
Ombraz Viale Soft Great Great Yes Yes Digital Nomad
Shady Rays Classic Black Timber Polarized Soft Okay Good Yes Yes Vacation
Smith Guide’s Choice Sunglasses Hard Okay Good Yes Yes Vacation
Distil Union Folly Sunglasses Hard & Soft Okay Good Yes Yes Vacation
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Folding Classic Soft (leather-like) Great Good Yes Yes Digital Nomad
Maui Jim Kawika Polarized Classic Sunglasses Hard Okay Okay Yes Yes Vacation
Oakley Latch Sunglasses Soft Good Good Yes Yes Athletic
SUNGAIT Vintage Round Sunglasses Soft Good Okay No Yes Casual
Heat Wave Visual XL Vise Z87 Sunglasses Soft Okay Good Yes Yes Vacation

Our Testing Criteria

Case:
While traveling, most of you will bring a sunglasses case. After all, you don’t want your new glasses to break, right? Many models will come with a case, but sometimes, you won’t want to use that one because it doesn’t offer any protection. Typically, soft cases are handy for cleaning the lenses. That said, they won’t stop heavy gear inside your pack from crunching the arms or scratching the lenses, so you’re likely better off with a hard case. We recommend leaving your sunglasses in a soft case so you can clean the lenses and put them inside a hard case. It’s the best of both worlds! Not all structured cases are built the same, though, so it’s best to make sure that yours can handle what you plan to put it through. A hard plastic case is best, but it might not be the most packable. Leather hard cases are next best, but they sometimes have more give than we’d like.

Packability:
Space is key when traveling as a digital nomad or packing for the whole family on a trip. If you have a large pair of sunglasses or a huge case, that’ll take up valuable real estate in your travel backpack, daypack, or sling. Folding sunglasses save space, and those with a low profile are easier to slide into nooks and crannies in your pack.

Durability:
This one might seem easy to decipher, but it might be harder than you think. Most sunglasses are made of plastic. We’ve found that not all plastics are the same, and it can be hard to tell how strong a pair of glasses is just by looking at them. Enter this post and our table! We’ve done the dirty work for you to get a pair of sunglasses that’ll last you longer. There are metal and polycarbonate options, too, which might float your boat. Metal is typically more durable but will bend easier than most plastics, which is worth considering.

Polarization Available:
Polarization reduces the glare from lights in your vision, making it easier to see. This is particularly helpful if you’re going somewhere sunny, near the water, or with lots of shimmering skyscrapers. With polarized glasses, you’ll be able to see your surroundings better and get more out of your trip.

UV Blocking:
UV exposure can harm your vision, so ensuring your glasses have proper UV protection is essential. Most of the best sunglasses do, but making sure that the glasses you select have adequate protection is important.

Best Use:
Here at Pack Hacker, we’ve got packing lists for a variety of trips, posts about the best gear for every kind of traveler, and hundreds of gear reviews. We’ve categorized all of the best sunglasses based on our experience so you can quickly find a pair that will work for your planned trip. That said, everyone travels differently, so read the fine print in our review before making your purchase!

Hopefully, by this point, you’ve thought about it and know what you want from the best sunglasses for you. Let’s dive into this list!

1. ROAV Eyewear Franklin Sunglasses
ROAV Eyewear Franklin Sunglasses

We’ve seen a few unique designs for folding sunglasses here at Pack Hacker; however, the styling of the frames is typically the same. The ROAV Eyewear Franklin Sunglasses buck that trend, offering a fine-tuned metal-framed pair that will look good no matter where you end up. They’ll fold up to fit in your pocket, which is excellent for those trying to save space in their pack or everyday sling.

In our experience, these aren’t the most comfortable sunglasses on this list. For example, these aren’t sporty sunglasses that you will want to run a marathon with—but they’re comfortable enough for your morning workout if push comes to shove. If you have a larger head, they might not be the most comfortable, but their size and style shouldn’t be overlooked when searching for the best sunglasses for your next trip.

ROAV Eyewear Franklin Sunglasses Side By Side

Aesthetic of the ROAV Eyewear Franklin Sunglasses on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • The folding design saves space and weight
  • They can be dressed up or down
What You Should Know
  • Not the most comfortable glasses for all day wear
  • They aren’t the best for working out
See Full Review & Buying Options
2. Foldies Polarized Folding Classics (V2)
Foldies Polarized Folding Classics (V2)

Many of the folding options we’ve found in our research to find the best sunglasses around are higher on the price scale. However, you don’t have to sacrifice your hard-earned money for a pair of foldable glasses worth discussing. The second iteration of the Foldies Polarized Folding Classics are durable, stay put on your face, and come with a hard travel case.

The look is somewhat sporty but they aren’t of place at endless mimosa brunch after a night out. The case it comes with is durable and will protect the glasses; however, it isn’t the smallest, which feels counterproductive for packability. We like to stow it in a travel backpack while not in use and only grab it when we aren’t using the glasses for an extended period. That way, they’re within reach at a moment’s notice!

Foldies Polarized Folding Classics V2 Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Foldies Polarized Folding Classics (V2) on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • Fit into the palm of your hand when folded
  • They’re budget-friendly
What You Should Know
  • The case isn’t very small
  • Hair can get caught in the extra joints
See Full Review & Buying Options
3. Sunski Avila

Best for: Relaxed Travelers

Sunski Avila

The Sunski Avila feature recycled frames, are budget-friendly, and stay comfortable all day. The design is sporty enough for a workout or a day at the beach but works for lunch with a new friend, too.

Some users have reported durability concerns; however, the set at Pack Hacker HQ continues to perform at 100%, which is great for a pair of cheap sunglasses. The lenses are polarized, which makes them a great shout for the beach or fishing on a sunny day. How can you catch the fish if you can’t see them through the glare of the sunshine?

No matter where you end up, your eyes (and wallet) will thank you if you bring a pair of Sunskis for the ride.

Sunski Avila

Aesthetic of the Sunski Avila on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • Recycled frames
  • They feel small on some faces
What You Should Know
  • Don’t feel super durable
  • We wish the lower portion of the lens had more support for durability
See Details & Buying Options
4. Knockaround Premiums Black on Black/Smoke

Best for: Frugal Travelers

Knockaround Premiums Black on Black:Smoke

If you want a pair of good sunglasses that will work for every occasion and won’t break the bank, look no further than the Knockaround Premiums. Even though they’re cheap sunglasses made of plastic, we’ve found them surprisingly durable, and there are dozens of colorways to choose from on Knockaround’s site. In our experience, these are some of the best budget-brand sunglasses on the market based on their look, durability, colorway, and available design options.

Their look isn’t for everyone—they’re semi-sporty but don’t look out of place while crossing the city, hiking across the next trail, or hitting the beach. The polarization works well for environments close to the water or in a modern cityscape with glass towers everywhere—a bonus you won’t think about until it's too late. Who wants to squint all day? Not you!

Knockaround Sunglasses Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Knockaround Premiums Black on Black/Smoke on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • A durable, budget-friendly option
  • They don’t cost as much as similar glasses on this list
What You Should Know
  • They look a bit sporty
  • We don’t love the logo on the lens
See Full Review & Buying Options
5. Nooz Optics Cruz

Best for: Full-time Travelers

Nooz Optics Cruz

If you’re looking for a pair of quality sunglasses that are stylish and take up a small amount of space, look no further than the Nooz Optics Cruz. We love the look of these glasses; they fold down to fit into a case barely larger than the frames. This makes it easy to stow them inside your pocket, sling, or packable daypack without working about them breaking.

Nooz has multiple frame options and many fun colorways, so you can find a look that matches your style perfectly. The arms feel flimsy, but after over a month of testing in Thailand and South Korea for our Digital Nomad Packing List, they made it back to Pack Hacker HQ unharmed and still look nearly brand new.

Nooz Optics Cruz Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Nooz Optics Cruz on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • The case can slide into a sling easily
  • The look is stylish and goes with most outfits
What You Should Know
  • The arms feel a little flimsy
  • The look is stylish and goes with most outfits
See Details & Buying Options
6. ThinOptics Menlo Park Sunglasses
ThinOptics Menlo Park Sunglasses

If you’re going for a heritage aesthetic, the ThinOptics Menlo Park Sunglasses might be the best sunglasses for you. They pair vintage styling with a lightweight design and a super-thin hard case to create a pair of travel glasses you’ll get asked about while crossing the street.

The arms feel somewhat flimsy, so they deserve extra care while out and about. However, while stowed in the hard case, there’s nothing to be worried about. Plus, the case is magnetic so you can attach it to things while on the go. The lenses have full UV protection and an anti-reflective coating, so you can see anything and everything while exploring a new city.

ThinOptics Menlo Park Sunglasses Side By Side

Aesthetic of the ThinOptics Menlo Park Sunglasses on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • Heritage aesthetic without being bulky
  • The frames have a lot of metal, which looks sleek
What You Should Know
  • We have long-term durability concerns
  • They can feel crooked at times, even when they aren’t
See Details & Buying Options
7. Crap Eyewear The Dropout Boogie

Best for: Sustainable Travelers

Crap Eyewear The Dropout Boogie

For those looking for a pair of good sunglasses that check the box for sustainability, Crap Eyewear has you covered. We dig their Dropout Boogie model because of the style, and the frames are manufactured from handcrafted bio acetate, which is biodegradable and plant-based. Crap Eyewear has many designs and colorways to choose from, so if the Dropout Boogie isn’t your style, there’s probably another that is.

The case is a tad bulky, so it’s best to stow it in your travel backpack while in action. In transit, throw the glasses in the case for safekeeping. You won’t need them at the airport, after all. Well, unless you want to look cool around the clock, anyways. Happy travels, dude!

Crap Eyewear The Dropout Boogie Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Crap Eyewear The Dropout Boogie on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • Sustainable materials
  • They cost more than you’d expect
What You Should Know
  • The case is bulky
  • They look pretty large on small faces
See Details & Buying Options
8. Ombraz Viale
Ombraz Viale Sunglasses Review

If you have issues with sunglasses falling off your face, we’ve got you covered! Snag a set of Ombraz Viale to ensure your glasses stay where they’re supposed to be—whether on your face or in your pack. These glasses don’t have arms. You heard us correctly; instead, they use a nylon cord to wrap around your head to ensure they stay on and don’t break.

In testing, we found that these were much more comfortable than we were initially expecting, and after a while, we wish we had ditched our sunglasses arms way sooner. The cord on the back of the glasses is 100% recycled, which we dig. At the time of writing, there are a handful of designs to choose from, so there’s bound to be something that will work for you. The design might be too weird for some folks; however, if you want to try something new and are sick of breaking the arms on your glasses, these might be the best sunglasses for your next trip!

Ombraz Viale Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Ombraz Viale on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • The unique design ensures the arms on your glasses don’t break and they stay on your face
  • They’re way more comfortable than you’d think
What You Should Know
  • Can be hard to get used to
  • They aren’t great for taking on and off quickly
See Full Review & Buying Options
9. Shady Rays Classic Black Timber Polarized
Shady Rays Classic Black Timber Polarized

Are you the kind of person who has the best sunglasses around but always misplaces them? It happens to everyone, but for repeat offenders, Shadyrays are the glasses for you. If you lose or break them, the company will send you a new pair, no questions asked. Now that’s a deal! Just pay for the processing fee. You can get up to two new pairs within the first 24 months, so don’t be too reckless.

The frames are lightweight and polarized so that you can take them anywhere. The material is shatter resistant, so a drop here or there won’t make you trigger the warranty. The styling isn’t for everyone, but with the guarantee of a new pair if something happens, these might be the best sunglasses for you.

Shady Rays Classic Black Timber Polarized Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Shady Rays Classic Black Timber Polarized on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • Will be replaced if you lose or break them
  • You can add color enhancement technology to the lenses
What You Should Know
  • The look is a bit sporty
  • The arms feel wider than they need to be
See Details & Buying Options
10. Smith Guide’s Choice Sunglasses
Smith Guide’s Choice Sunglasses

If other models bother you because light sneaks around the sides, the Guide’s Choice sunglasses from Smith are worth looking at. The frames have extensive coverage, so your eyes are protected at more angles. Plus, the frames use CromaPop technology, which makes everything around you more vivid and colorful without being distracting.

We have to admit that this styling isn’t for everyone. However, this offering will fit most situations you encounter while traveling. Plus, these glasses are uber durable. They have a smudge and moisture-resistant coating and are great at staying scratch-free. If you want to ensure your eyes are covered and your glasses stay in working shape, the Smith Guide’s Choice is a pair of good sunglasses for you.

Smith Guide’s Choice Sunglasses Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Smith Guide’s Choice Sunglasses on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • The ChromaPop technology increases contrast to make your view more vivid
  • They have excellent lens coverage
What You Should Know
  • They run a little wide
  • We aren’t a massive fan of the look
See Details & Buying Options
11. Distil Union Folly Sunglasses
Distil Union Folly Sunglasses

We all have friends who constantly misplace their keys, wallet, or sunglasses. If you’re that friend, we’ve got you covered. The Distill Union Folly Sunglasses have a MagLock in the arms so you can attach the sunglasses onto things and stay put when you put them on your shirt or pack.

You can stick these glasses on your refrigerator, onto something metal in your car, or on the front of your shirt when you dip inside an island shop after a long walk on the beach. Sometimes, if you stick them somewhere unique, you’ll forget where they are. However, we think this design is worth looking at, especially if you want a good pair of sunglasses that won’t go missing. Plus, the case is unique and easy to use!

Distil Union Folly Sunglasses Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Distil Union Folly Sunglasses on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • MagLock technology is helpful
  • The look is easy to pair with outfits
What You Should Know
  • They can accidentally stick to things
  • It can get flimsy over time
See Details & Buying Options
12. Ray-Ban Wayfarer Folding Classic

Best for: Professional Travelers

Ray-Ban Wayfarer Folding Classic

Let’s be honest, can you get more classic than a pair of RayBans? The Italian Company has been slinging out sunglasses for nearly a century and shows no signs of stopping any time soon. However, when you invest in good sunglasses, you want to ensure they meet your needs. If you’re a frequent one-bag traveler, a pair of RayBan Wayfarer Folding Classics are right up your alley

We think these are a bit pricey compared to other similarly-sized glasses; however, in our experience, no other folding glasses look quite as stylish as these. The hinges can be a little sticky at first, but after a few uses, they’ll be ready to roll when you are. It’s the classic Wayfarer look you’re used to but in a design that fits into the palm of your hand. What isn’t to like? Be careful, though—more hinges mean more places to get pinched! For portability and style, these might be the best sunglasses for you.

Ray-Ban Wayfarer Folding Classic Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Ray-Ban Wayfarer Folding Classic on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • A classic design in a small package
  • They feel sturdy and durable
What You Should Know
  • You can accidentally pinch your finger
  • The cost is higher than some sunglasses on this list
See Details & Buying Options
13. Maui Jim Kawika Polarized Classic Sunglasses
Maui Jim Kawika Polarized Classic Sunglasses

Maui Jim is a staple for beach lovers, day drinkers, and warm-climate travelers. Their designs are fun and sleek, there are many lens color options, and their glasses are crafted at a high standard. We dig their KAWIKA Polarized Classic Sunglasses, but there’s bound to be a make and model that fit your liking (and face) on their website.

These glasses have classic nose pads, which will feel normal for you if you wear glasses but can be hard to get used to for those with good vision. We find this to be more comfortable in the long haul, but they won’t work well for athletic activities for placing on top of your head while you aren’t using them. If you don’t know why, ask your long-haired friends who don’t like having their hair pulled out! If you want nose pads, these might be the best sunglasses for you.

Maui Jim Kawika Polarized Classic Sunglasses Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Maui Jim Kawika Polarized Classic Sunglasses on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • The nose pads are comfortable for daily use
  • The look works for business or vacation trips
What You Should Know
  • Design isn’t great for active things
  • They’ll look too big on some smaller faces
See Details & Buying Options
14. Oakley Latch Sunglasses
Oakley Latch Sunglasses

Oakley’s Latch sunglasses were designed with moving in mind. Literally—these things are made for skateboarders to not fall off their faces while wearing them. However, you don’t need to know how to kickflip to wear them; they’re super comfortable! The design feels like a modern take on a pair of heritage sunglasses, which we dig.

As mentioned above, you don’t have to skateboard to wear these glasses. Whether going on a morning run or cycling with a rental across an unfamiliar city or something in between, these are a good sunglasses choice.

If you need some inspiration, check out the video Oakley made for the release. It features skaters Eric Koston, Curren Caples, Sean Malto, and skater-photographer Atiba Jefferson and will make you want to get out there and hit the road!

Oakley Latch Sunglasses Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Oakley Latch Sunglasses on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • Stick to your face even when moving quickly
  • There are numerous colorways to choose from
What You Should Know
  • Styling isn’t for everyone
  • The price is high
See Details & Buying Options
15. SUNGAIT Vintage Round Sunglasses
SUNGAIT Vintage Round Sunglasses

For fans of well-styled sunglasses who don’t like spending a ton on gear, look no further than the Sungait Vintage Round SGT567. We dig the design of the frames for use all day long, and the price isn’t prohibitive for those on a budget or who want to grab more than one pair.

At the time of writing, there are many colorway options to choose from, so you can find a styling that’s as unique as you are. Their durability isn’t the best on this list; however, they don’t need to be babied to stay in good shape. Find a frame you love, pick a colorway, and you’ve got a pair of good sunglasses!

SUNGAIT Vintage Round Sunglasses Side By Side

Aesthetic of the SUNGAIT Vintage Round Sunglasses on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • A budget-friendly but well-styled option
  • We dig the pairing of metal and plastic
What You Should Know
  • We worry about durability
  • They can look small on larger faces
See Details & Buying Options
16. Heat Wave Visual XL Vise Z87 Sunglasses
Heat Wave Visual XL Vise Z87 Sunglasses

Finding the pair of best sunglasses for men with larger heads is a tough battle. You have to sort through frame styles, materials, lens colors, and design colorways. This can take time and hard work, making it even worse if they break down the line.

We’ve got good news—with the Heatwave XL Vise Z87 Sunglasses, every piece is replaceable, so you can mix and match pieces or fix the part that broke. This makes them more sustainable, considering you don’t have to replace the whole pair, and it is a fun way to mix and match to fit your style.

The design isn’t for everyone, but we dig the large coverage and that they work for large heads. That said, these might be the best sunglasses for you!

Heat Wave Visual XL Vise Z87 Sunglasses Side By Side

Aesthetic of the Heat Wave Visual XL Vise Z87 Sunglasses on a masculine and feminine face.

Why We Like It
  • Every piece is replaceable
  • They are stylish and have good coverage
What You Should Know
  • Large coverage isn’t suited for small heads
  • They feel a little heavy
See Details & Buying Options

If you’re still not sure of where to start, we’ve compiled a few frequently asked questions and used our experience testing gear to give you the answers you want!

How do you find the best sunglasses for your face?

If you googled anything that starts with “What are the best sunglasses for,” you’re in the right place. Before we get into that, we’ve got to find out what kind of face you have! If you wear glasses, you’ve got a great starting point. Our managing editor likes to use the shape of their glasses as a frame (you see what we did there?) of reference and go from there. If you don’t have glasses, it’s worth going into a store that sells them to see which kinds of models work for your face to give you a starting point.

What color lens is best for sunglasses?

There’s some science to back up the notion that grey is the best color lens for the best sunglasses because it blocks a lot of light and ensures that what you see stays true to how you’d see it without sunglasses. Essentially, it cuts out extra light and has good color retention. If you don’t mind another color in your vision and like how it looks better, you might as well go with that one!

Are polarized sunglasses better?

We know what you might be thinking: do polarized sunglasses have any downsides? Well, yes, but we almost always recommend them anyway! They cut out the glare, which is better for trips on the water or in the sunshine. However, polarized lenses will have issues reading screens that emit polarized light, like LCD screens in cars, bars, and other places you might visit.

Are expensive sunglasses worth it?

Well, it depends on where you’re going and how you travel. If you’re rough on your gear, maybe not. Even the most rugged, best sunglasses can’t take getting stepped on or crunched by your tech. However, if you treat your gear with respect, they might be. More expensive doesn’t mean higher durability, but glasses that cost more often have better materials, which will last longer. In short, sometimes more costly glasses will cost you less in the long run because you don’t need to replace them.

Are folding sunglasses comfortable?

Absolutely! All of the folding glasses we’ve included on this list stay in place incredibly well, so you don’t have to worry about discomfort in how you wear them. Occasionally, a stray hair might sneak into the hinge, but that’s possible with any pair of sunglasses!

How do I know if sunglasses will fit my face?

Almost every pair of sunglasses will have measurements on their site. That’s excellent, but how do you measure your face for glasses? Well, your best bet is to look on YouTube for a tutorial. That said, we’ll do our best to explain it quickly. Frame width is the most critical factor and is pretty easy to measure. You need to get the distance between your temples. You can use any ruler for this, but we’ve found that a hard-sided one is better than a soft tape measure. Once you have that measurement, you can find the perfect glasses for your face!


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Whether you want the best sunglasses for your commute to work or your next trip across the globe, we think you’ll find the best sunglasses for you somewhere on this list. Here’s to sunshine, traveling, and new adventures!

March 28, 2023

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