The right sunglasses can make a big difference on the trail. Whether you are walking through open countryside or hiking in the mountains, a good pair should protect your eyes, reduce uncomfortable glare and stay secure as you move.
This guide explains what to look for in hiking sunglasses and highlights outdoor-ready brands available from Burghley & Co.
What should you look for in hiking sunglasses?
Reliable UV protection
UV protection is the first priority. Dark lenses alone do not guarantee protection, so buy from a reputable retailer and check that the sunglasses are made to recognised standards.
Comfortable glare reduction
Glare can reflect from water, wet ground, rocks and snow. Polarised lenses can reduce reflected glare and may make outdoor vision feel more comfortable, particularly around water and bright exposed terrain.
Learn more in our polarised sunglasses guide.
A lightweight, secure fit
Heavy or loose sunglasses quickly become annoying on a longer walk. Look for a lightweight frame, comfortable bridge and secure sides that remain in place when you look down or move across uneven ground.
Good coverage
Larger lenses and gently wrapped shapes can provide more coverage from sunlight, wind and dust. The best choice is one that gives useful protection without pressing against your cheeks or feeling too tight around your head.
Durable materials
Hiking sunglasses are likely to be placed in backpacks, worn in changing weather and exposed to more knocks than everyday eyewear. Flexible, lightweight frame materials are often better suited to active use than delicate fashion frames.
Are polarised sunglasses best for hiking?
Polarised lenses can be an excellent choice for many walks because they reduce horizontal reflected glare. They are particularly useful near lakes, rivers, wet paths and snow.
They are not essential for every hiker, however. A well-fitting pair with reliable UV protection may be enough for casual countryside walking. Polarisation is most valuable when glare is a regular problem.
Shop sunglasses, including polarised options
Which lens colour is best for hiking?
- Grey: keeps colours looking natural and works well in bright conditions.
- Brown: can increase contrast and is useful across changeable outdoor light.
- Green: offers a balanced view with good contrast and natural colour perception.
- Photochromic: changes with UV exposure and can be useful when moving between open ground and shaded areas.
No single colour is automatically best. Choose according to the conditions you walk in most often and how you personally experience brightness and contrast.
Our recommended hiking sunglasses brands
Bollé: performance-focused outdoor eyewear
Bollé is a strong option for hikers who want practical sports styling, good coverage and a secure fit. Many designs are shaped for movement rather than purely for fashion.
Adidas Sport: lightweight and active
Adidas Sport sunglasses are designed with active use in mind. Their lightweight construction and sporty shapes can work well for hiking, running and other outdoor activities.
Nike: familiar sports styling
Nike sunglasses suit walkers who prefer modern performance styling and a lightweight feel. Look for secure temples and sufficient lens coverage for your intended route.
O’Neill: adventure-ready everyday sunglasses
O’Neill offers lightweight outdoor eyewear with relaxed styling. The collection is a good fit for coastal walks, countryside trails and customers who want something sporty without an aggressive technical appearance.
Serengeti: premium lenses for changing light
For customers who prioritise lens performance, Serengeti is worth considering. Its premium sunglass lenses are designed around clarity and changing outdoor light, making the brand suitable for long days outside as well as driving.
Can hiking sunglasses have prescription lenses?
Yes. Many suitable frames can be fitted with prescription sun lenses, including single-vision, varifocal and polarised options. Suitability depends on your prescription and the size, shape and curvature of the frame.
Burghley & Co reviews every prescription order before glazing. Explore our prescription lens options or browse prescription sunglasses.
What about high-altitude hiking?
UV exposure can be greater at altitude, while snow can reflect additional UV radiation. For exposed mountain routes, choose reliable eye protection with good coverage and seek specialist advice when conditions are extreme.
For further eye-health information, see guidance from the NHS on sun safety and the College of Optometrists on ultraviolet radiation.
How should hiking sunglasses fit?
Your sunglasses should remain secure without pinching. Check that:
- The frame does not slide when you look down.
- The sides do not press uncomfortably against your temples.
- The lenses do not touch your eyelashes.
- The lower edge does not rest heavily on your cheeks.
- The frame gives enough coverage for the conditions you expect.
Use our virtual try-on guide or complete the Help Me Choose Glasses consultation for personalised advice.
Final verdict
The best sunglasses for hiking are not necessarily the most expensive. Prioritise reliable UV protection, a secure lightweight fit, useful coverage and lenses suited to the conditions in which you walk.
For casual routes, an everyday outdoor frame may be ideal. For longer or more exposed adventures, a performance design from Bollé, Adidas Sport, Nike, O’Neill or Serengeti may provide the comfort and protection you need.
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Written by Scott Phippen, UK Registered Dispensing Optician and founder of Burghley & Co.