7 Best Sunglasses for Pickleball in 2023! Top Picks Reviewed and Buying Guide

Have you ever been in the middle of a thrilling pickleball game, ready to make your next winning shot, only to be blinded by the unforgiving sun? If you’ve experienced this, you know it’s not just a game spoiler, it can also be harmful to your eyes.

Welcome to your ultimate guide to buying the best sunglasses for pickleball. We’ll help you make an informed decision to protect your eyes and elevate your game.

Who Is This Guide For?

This guide is intended for you, the pickleball player who wants to keep their eye on the ball and enjoy the game under the open sky. You might be an amateur player enjoying the game in your backyard or a professional athlete competing in tournaments. Regardless of your skill level, if you’re looking for the best eyewear to shield your eyes, enhance your vision and keep you comfortable while playing pickleball, then this guide is for you.

How to Choose the best sunglasses for Pickleball?

here’s a detailed breakdown of the key factors to consider when choosing the best sunglasses for pickleball:

1.      UV Protection:

Exposing your eyes to the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays can lead to conditions such as cataracts or skin cancer around the eyelids. Sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection are essential to safeguard your ocular health while playing pickleball outdoors.

2.      Polarization:

Glare from the sun can significantly disrupt your vision and, consequently, your game performance. Polarized lenses filter the sunlight, reducing glare and increasing visual clarity. However, they don’t substitute for UV protection—ensure your sunglasses offer both.

3.      Lens Material:

Pickleball is a high-intensity sport that requires quick movements. Therefore, your sunglasses should withstand potential impacts. Polycarbonate lenses are a great choice due to their high impact resistance, light weight, and exceptional optical clarity.

4.      Fit and Comfort:

Sunglasses that don’t fit well can be more of a distraction than a benefit during a game. Look for adjustable nose pads, rubberized temples, and a shape that suits your face for optimal fit and comfort.

5.      Weight:

Heavy sunglasses can be a burden during prolonged use and may not stay in place during active play. Lightweight sunglasses can provide comfort without sacrificing durability or protection.

6.      Style and Design:

Consider a wraparound design to prevent sunlight from entering from the sides, providing better peripheral vision—a critical aspect in fast-paced sports like pickleball.

7.      Durability:

The best sunglasses should withstand the rigors of an outdoor sport, including falls, scratches, and the wear-and-tear of regular use. Opt for sunglasses with a strong frame and scratch-resistant lenses.

8.      Lens Color:

Different lens colors can help optimize your vision in varying light conditions. Brown or amber lenses, for example, can improve contrast on cloudy days, whereas gray lenses can reduce brightness on sunny days without altering colors.

9.      Frame Material:

Look for flexible, durable, and lightweight frame materials like nylon or propionate. Metal frames are often not ideal for sports due to their weight and potential for bending or breaking.

10. Prescription Options:

If you normally wear prescription glasses, look for sunglasses that offer prescription lenses or are designed to fit over your regular glasses, so you don’t have to sacrifice vision for sun protection.

11. Ventilation:

Good ventilation is crucial to prevent lens fogging, especially during high-energy games or in hot weather. Some sports sunglasses come with specially designed air holes to ensure continuous airflow.

12. Interchangeable Lenses:

If you often play in varying light conditions, consider sunglasses with interchangeable lenses. This allows you to swap out lenses to match the light intensity and optimize visibility.

13. Price:

Finally, remember that price doesn’t always reflect quality. Assess the value and features that the sunglasses offer against their price. Investing in a pair of high-quality sunglasses can provide a better playing experience and last much longer, offering better value over time.

Each of these factors can significantly affect your experience on the court and the protection of your eyes, so keep them in mind when purchasing your next pair of pickleball sunglasses.

6 Best Sunglasses for Pickleball in 2023!

1. Tifosi Intense Sunglasses:

TifosiIntense Sport Sunglasses are designed with the pickleball players in mind. For someone who plays sports like pickleball, these glasses offer high-quality protection and convenience. They feature Grilamid TR-90 frames, which are both durable and lightweight. Additionally, the vented lenses prevent fogging, ensuring a clear view during the game. These glasses are ideal for pickleball players due to their shatterproof and scratch-resistant polycarbonate lenses, which provide 100% UVA/UVB protection.

Tifosi Intense Sport Sunglasses Main Features:

Grilamid TR-90 Frame:

This feature is crucial for active users because of its durability and lightweight characteristics. It provides comfort, which is essential when you’re playing intense sports like pickleball.

Vented Lenses:

These are beneficial for players because they prevent fogging, ensuring a clear view throughout the game.

Target Users:

Pickleball players are the main target users for these sunglasses. However, they are also suitable for golfers, runners, and tennis players.

Unique Feature:

The unique feature of these sunglasses is the hydrophilic nose pads. These increase grip the more you sweat, ensuring the glasses stay put even during intense activities. This feature makes these glasses stand out among other sport sunglasses.

Pros:

• Lightweight and durable frame
• Scratch-resistant and shatterproof lenses
• 100% UVA/UVB protection
• Vented lenses for fog prevention
• Hydrophilic nose pads increase grip when sweating

Cons:

• They are non-polarized, which may not provide enough glare reduction for some users.
• The fit may not be comfortable for all head sizes as it is mentioned suitable for small to large fit.

Recommendation:

For pickleball players looking for a combination of comfort, durability, and superior lens technology, these Intense Sport Sunglasses make an excellent choice. They are specifically designed to cater to the needs of sports enthusiasts, providing high-quality UV protection, fog prevention, and a secure fit. Despite their minor shortcomings, their innovative design and high-quality materials make them one of the best sunglasses for pickleball.

2. Track Sport Sunglasses:

The Track Sport Men & Women Sunglasses are ideal for various outdoor sports, especially for pickleball. The unique selling point is the lens technology, which strategically shifts the sweet spot from the geometric center to the optimal position in front of the eyes, ensuring excellent vision during game play. The lens offers 100% UVA/UVB protection, crucial for any outdoor activities. Furthermore, the frames are extremely light, made from Grilamid TR-90, ensuring comfortable wear throughout the day. The frame’s hydrophilic nose pads and Tifosi Glide technology help in preventing slippage during sweaty play, providing a secure fit. The positive customer reviews highlight the product’s comfort, protection, durability, and affordability, making it a top choice for outdoor sports.

Product Main Features:

The main features of the Track Sport Sunglasses are their mirrored, shatterproof and scratch-resistant lenses, ultra-light frame, hydrophilic nose pads, and Tifosi Glide technology. These features are essential for pickleball players, as they provide optimal vision, UV protection, lightweight comfort, and secure fit even in sweaty conditions. The sunglasses come with a microfiber cleaning bag and are covered under a lifetime warranty, which is beneficial for users, ensuring the product’s long-term value.

Target Users:

The target users for these sunglasses are both men and women who regularly engage in outdoor sports, particularly baseball, golf, running, tennis, and most specifically, pickleball.

Unique Feature:

The unique feature of this product is the optically decentered lenses. The “sweet spot” of the lens has been strategically moved to the optimal position in front of the eyes, which could significantly improve a player’s vision during a fast-paced game like pickleball.

Pros:

• 100% UVA/UVB protection, ensuring eye safety in sunlit conditions.
• Optically decentered lens technology for optimal vision.
• Ultra-light frame made from Grilamid TR-90, providing all-day comfort.
• Hydrophilic nose pads and Tifosi Glide technology offer a secure, anti-bounce fit even in sweaty conditions.
• Lifetime warranty assures long-term value for the product.

Cons:

• Not scratch-proof, only scratch-resistant, which means the lenses might still get scratched with rough use.
• As per some users, the lens color may not provide the best vision clarity.
• The size might be a bit small for people who prefer larger frames or have a larger head size.

Recommendation:

For those who are regular pickleball players or participate in other outdoor sports, the Track Sport Men & Women Sunglasses are an excellent choice. Their lens technology, lightweight comfort, secure fit, and UV protection make them ideal for pickleball. However, users who require scratch-proof lenses or larger frames may need to look for other alternatives.

3. Franklin Sports Pickleball Sunglasses:

The Franklin Sports Pickleball Sunglasses are a versatile accessory designed to optimize your outdoor gaming experiences. These glasses cater to various sports activities besides pickleball such as tennis, cycling, rowing, skiing and others, making them a practical choice for the active user. The lightweight and durable TR90 polycarbonate frame coupled with impact-resistant lenses ensures lasting use and effective protection from physical damage. With UV protection, these sunglasses shield your eyes from harmful rays and glare, aiding in an unhindered gaming experience.

Product Main Features:

Lightweight and Durable:

These sunglasses stand up to intense outdoor activities and offer longevity due to their lightweight yet robust polycarbonate frame material.

UV Protection:

Equipped with lenses offering UVA and UVB protection, these sunglasses can safeguard your eyes from harmful solar radiation and reduce glare, improving your visual comfort and clarity during outdoor games.

Multi-Sport Utility:

These glasses are not just for pickleball or tennis.

They’re also suited for other sports activities like rowing, cycling, skiing, making them a versatile piece of sports gear.

Headband Included:

The glasses come with an easy-attach head strap, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit during games, which prevents them from slipping off during vigorous movements.

Carry Bag:

To enhance portability and protect your sunglasses from potential damage, the product comes with a carry bag.

Target Users:

These sunglasses are designed for unisex adults who actively engage in outdoor sports activities.

Unique Feature:

A unique feature of the Franklin Sports Pickleball Sunglasses is their all-sport utility. Despite being designed primarily for court sports, they’re equally effective for a wide range of outdoor sports activities, offering exceptional versatility to users.

Pros:

• Lightweight design for comfortable wear
• Durable polycarbonate frame for longevity
• Lenses offer UVA and UVB protection
• Ideal for a variety of outdoor sports activities
• Includes a headband for secure fit during vigorous play
• Comes with a carry bag for ease of transport and protection

Cons:

• Some users may find the plastic frame less aesthetically appealing
• The sunglasses may fit loosely without the headband

Recommendation for Target Users:

The Franklin Sports Pickleball Sunglasses are an excellent choice for sports enthusiasts seeking a durable, functional, and versatile pair of sunglasses. With their lightweight design, robust construction, UV protection, and multi-sport utility, these glasses can cater to the needs of active individuals engaging in a range of outdoor sports, including but not limited to pickleball and tennis.

Furthermore, the inclusion of an attachable headband and carry bag only adds to the overall practicality of these glasses. If you’re seeking a pair of sunglasses that merges functionality, durability, and versatility, the Franklin Sports Pickleball Sunglasses should be on your consideration list.

4. SEEK FC 2.0 Sport Sunglasses:

The SEEK FC 2.0 Sport Sunglasses are a multifunctional, performance-oriented pair of sunglasses that are designed for both men and women. The best feature of these sunglasses is their durable and ultra-lightweight TR90 frame, which weighs only 23 grams. This feature is beneficial as it ensures that the sunglasses stay comfortable for long-duration usage, which is ideal for sports like pickleball, where matches can last for quite some time.

SEEK FC 2.0 Sport Sunglasses Main Features:

The sunglasses feature optically decentered, shatterproof, and scratch-resistant (not scratch proof) polycarbonate lenses with 100% UVA / UVB protection from harmful UV rays. This matters greatly to the target users as it ensures clear, unhindered vision while offering maximum protection from the sun. Furthermore, the hydrophilic rubber nose and ear pads increase grip the more you sweat, which is a key feature for any sports enthusiast.

Target Users:

The target users for this product are sports enthusiasts, particularly those engaged in outdoor activities such as pickleball, cricket, cycling, golf, hiking, running, and tennis.

Unique Feature:

The unique feature of the SEEK FC 2.0 Sport Sunglasses is their Comfort Grip Technology, which allows the rubber earpads to hold the glasses securely without causing pressure. This ensures that the glasses stay in place during intense physical activity without causing any discomfort to the user.

Pros:

• Shatterproof polycarbonate lenses provide maximum protection and durability.
• The ultra-light frame ensures all-day comfort.
• Comfort Grip Technology keeps the glasses securely in place.
• Hydrophilic rubber nose and ear pads increase grip with sweat.
• 100% UVA/UVB protection from harmful UV rays.

Cons:

• Not polarized, which might be a concern for some users.
• The sunglasses are scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof.
• No hard case included for protection.

Recommendation:

Given the unique features and advantages of the SEEK FC 2.0 Sport Sunglasses, they come highly recommended for pickleball players, and anyone who’s into outdoor sports activities. These sunglasses provide maximum eye protection from the sun’s harmful rays, all while ensuring superior grip and comfort. However, users should be cautious about the lack of a hard case and the fact that the lenses are not scratch-proof. These factors should be considered before making a purchase decision.

5. BEACOOL Polarized Sports Sunglasses

The BEACOOL Polarized Sports Sunglasses are a fantastic product equipped with a myriad of excellent features. The sunglasses are particularly beneficial for outdoor sports enthusiasts due to their high-grade TAC & PC material, UV400 lens, and lightweight frame.

Players of pickleball, an outdoor sport, would find these sunglasses highly practical due to their polarized lens that reduce glare and improve visual clarity, thus aiding in tracking the ball during games. Their special rimless jacket frame design also allows for a clear lower vision field, which is beneficial for viewing the court.

BEACOOL Polarized Sports Sunglasses main features:

UV400 Polarized lens:

Essential for pickleball players, as they protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays, while improving visual clarity and reducing glare on the court.

High-quality TAC & PC material:

Ensures durability and resilience, even under rigorous playing conditions.

Soft and Anti-slip rubber nose pad:

Provides comfort during prolonged wear and ensures the sunglasses stay in place during high-intensity games.

Rimless jacket frame design:

Allows for clear lower vision, improving the user’s field of view.

Target users:

The primary target users are outdoor sports enthusiasts, particularly pickleball players who need effective sun protection and enhanced visual clarity during games.

Unique feature:

One unique feature of the BEACOOL Polarized Sports Sunglasses is the colorful HD Polarized lens. These lenses not only provide comprehensive UV protection but also enhance color perception and visual clarity, which is not common among other sports sunglasses. This feature could be critical for pickleball players who need to accurately track the fast-paced ball under various light conditions.

Pros:

• Polarized lenses reduce glare, improving visual clarity.
• UV400 protection guards eyes against harmful rays.
• Lightweight, making them comfortable for prolonged wear.
• Durable and shatterproof TAC lenses can withstand intense activity.
• The anti-slip nose pad ensures the sunglasses remain secure during active play.

Cons:

• Some users have mentioned they wish the lenses were darker.
• The polarization effect might not meet everyone’s expectations.

Recommendation for target users:

For pickleball players looking for the best sunglasses, the BEACOOL Polarized Sports Sunglasses make a strong case. With their UV protection, polarized lenses, and durable construction, they offer performance-enhancing features that are beneficial on the court. Furthermore, their lightweight design ensures comfort during long games. However, users seeking darker lenses might want to consider other options.

6. Franklin Sports Baseball + Softball Sunglasses:

The Franklin Sports Baseball + Softball Sunglasses present a versatile solution for sportspeople, especially pickleball players. These glasses offer a useful flip-up design, which provides instant flexibility to manage varying light conditions during a game.

The blue mirrored lens not only adds a sporty aesthetic but also aids in reducing glare and providing optimal vision on the court. Moreover, the lightweight, durable polycarbonate frames are designed to withstand the rough and tumble of intense games, including pickleball. The unique UV protection feature ensures that users’ eyes are shielded from harmful rays, thus preserving eye health.

Franklin Sports Baseball + Softball Sunglasses Main features:

The Franklin Sports Sunglasses’ main features include UV protection, flip-up design, multi-sport utility, lightweight and durable materials, and a blue mirrored lens. These features are beneficial to pickleball players as they provide essential eye protection and comfort during extended outdoor games. The flip-up design offers the convenience to quickly adjust to changes in light, which is crucial in fast-paced games like pickleball where visibility is key.

Target users:

The target users for this product are adults engaged in outdoor sports, specifically baseball, softball, and pickleball players. Given the unisex design, the sunglasses are suitable for both male and female athletes.

Unique feature:

One of the unique features of the product is its easy flip-up design. This allows players to quickly adapt to changing light conditions without interrupting the flow of the game. In pickleball, where quick reactions are key, being able to flip the lenses up and down at will can be a game-changer.

Pros:

• Lightweight and durable: Ideal for intense sports activity.
• UV protection: Shields the eyes from harmful sun rays.
• Easy flip-up design: Allows quick adjustment to changing light conditions.
• Multi-sport utility: Suitable for various outdoor sports, not just pickleball.

Cons:

• Potential durability issues with the flip mechanism: Some users reported that the sunglasses’ flip mechanism broke after some time.
• Lenses may scratch easily if dropped: The lenses might not be as resilient as some users would prefer.

Recommendation for target users:

The Franklin Sports Baseball + Softball Sunglasses come highly recommended for pickleball players who often play under the sun and need a convenient, adaptable solution to manage light conditions. Given the additional benefits of UV protection, durability, and lightweight design, these sunglasses offer good value for money. However, users should be aware of potential durability issues with the flip mechanism and take care when handling the sunglasses.

7. ONIX Pickleball Falcon Eyewear

ONIX Pickleball Falcon Eyewear is a pair of sports sunglasses designed for the rigorous demands of competitive pickleball play. The glasses’ lightweight, impact-resistant frame makes them comfortable to wear throughout long hours of play.

A unique aspect of these glasses is that they come with three interchangeable lens color options—clear, smoke, and blue tint—allowing users to customize their vision depending on lighting conditions. The lenses offer 99.9% UV protection, essential for those long hours under the sun, and are treated to be anti-scratch and anti-fog for longevity and clarity. The product’s primary users are adult pickleball players who require protective and versatile eyewear during games.

Main Features of ONIX Pickleball Falcon Eyewear:

The ONIX Falcon Eyewear’s main features include the protective lenses, interchangeable lens colors, and the soft, non-slip nose pieces. These features are critical to pickleball players because they offer protection, flexibility, and comfort, enhancing performance on the court. The adjustable elastic strap and soft ear pads also ensure a secure fit during fast-paced play.

Target Users:

The target users for the ONIX Falcon Eyewear are adult pickleball players, both men and women (unisex-adult), looking for reliable, comfortable, and customizable eyewear.

Unique Feature:

A unique feature of the ONIX Falcon Eyewear is the inclusion of three interchangeable lens colors. This allows players to adapt their eyewear to different lighting conditions, enhancing visibility and performance.

Pros:

• Lightweight, impact-resistant frame suitable for intense gameplay.
• Lenses offer 99.9% UV protection, anti-scratch, and anti-fog treatment.
• Interchangeable lens colors (clear, smoke, and blue tint) offer versatility.
• Soft, non-slip nose pieces and ear pads ensure comfort and a secure fit.
• Adjustable elastic strap allows for a customized fit.

Cons:

• Lens attachment to the frame may be distracting during play, according to some users.
• Durability concerns have been raised, with some users reporting issues like the rubber nose piece falling off.
• Some users have had difficulty switching lenses.
• The product may be considered pricey for its perceived build quality.

Recommendation for Target Users:

For adult pickleball players in need of protective eyewear that offers UV protection, comfort, and the unique feature of interchangeable lenses, the ONIX Falcon Eyewear is a strong contender. However, potential buyers should consider the feedback regarding lens switching difficulties and potential durability concerns. If these aspects are not deal-breakers, these glasses can be a great addition to the player’s pickleball equipment, given their main features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sunglasses do you wear for pickleball?

A: When it comes to sunglasses for pickleball, it is recommended to choose a pair that offers UV protection and has a wraparound design. This design helps to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays and peripheral glare.

Additionally, sunglasses with impact-resistant lenses are ideal to safeguard against accidental ball hits. It is also beneficial to select sunglasses that are lightweight and comfortable, ensuring they stay securely in place during fast-paced gameplay.

Are polarized glasses good for pickleball?

A: Yes, polarized glasses can be beneficial for pickleball. Polarized lenses help to reduce glare by blocking horizontal light reflections, such as those from the sun’s rays bouncing off the court surface or other objects. This can enhance visibility and make it easier to track the ball during gameplay.

However, it’s important to note that personal preference plays a role, and some players may find polarized lenses to be too dark or to affect depth perception. It’s recommended to try on different sunglasses, including polarized and non-polarized options, to determine which ones work best for you.

What color sunglass is best for sports?

When it comes to sports, including pickleball, the best sunglass lens color depends on the specific conditions and preferences of the individual. Generally, neutral colors like gray or brown are popular choices as they provide natural color perception and good contrast.

These colors are effective in bright conditions and can help reduce eyestrain. However, other lens tints like yellow or amber can enhance contrast and depth perception, making them suitable for low-light or cloudy conditions. Ultimately, it’s important to try different lens colors and select the one that offers the best visibility and comfort for your specific sporting needs.

Are safety glasses recommended for pickleball?

While safety glasses are not typically required for pickleball, they can be a good option for players who want an extra layer of eye protection. Safety glasses are designed to provide impact resistance and shield the eyes from potential hazards. They can be particularly useful for players who participate in competitive or high-intensity games where the risk of accidental ball hits is increased. If you choose to wear safety glasses for pickleball, ensure they are comfortable, fit properly, and do not obstruct your vision or hinder your performance.

What color pickleball is easiest to see?

The color of the pickleball itself can vary, but the most commonly used colors are yellow and white. When it comes to visibility, the choice between yellow and white pickleballs depends on the lighting conditions and the individual’s visual preferences. Yellow pickleballs tend to be more visible in outdoor settings and under bright lights, while white pickleballs may be easier to see in indoor or low-light environments. It’s a good idea to try both colors and see which one provides better visibility for you based on the specific playing conditions.

Conclusion:

Now that you’re informed about what to look for in the best sunglasses for pickleball, it’s time to make your choice. Don’t rush the decision – take your time to explore different brands and models, and remember to prioritize your needs and comfort.

Finally, always remember that the best pair of sunglasses is one that you’ll wear consistently, offers optimal protection, and helps improve your game.

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