Best Sunglasses for Farmers

Sunglasses are not just a stylish accessory for farmers, they’re a necessity. The right pair can protect their eyes from harmful UV rays, dust, and even flying debris. Furthermore, a good pair of sunglasses can reduce glare, providing a clearer view of the field or machinery. But, with so many choices available, picking the right one can be challenging. This buying guide reviews six of the best sunglasses for farmers, discussing their key features, pros and cons, and offering an honest verdict.

The 10 Best Sunglasses for Farmers

Buying Guide: Best Sunglasses for Farmers

Choosing the best sunglasses is crucial for farmers who spend long hours working under the bright sun. The right pair will not only protect your eyes but also enhance your productivity. Here are some buying guide tips to help you choose the best sunglasses for your farming needs.

Lens Material

There are various types of lens materials used in sunglasses, such as polycarbonate, glass, and plastic. Polycarbonate lenses are a great choice for farmers as they are durable, lightweight, and resistant to impact. Glass lenses offer excellent clarity but can be heavier and more susceptible to breaking.

UV Protection

UV protection is the most critical factor to consider. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Long-term exposure to these harmful rays can cause eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration.

Lens Color

The lens color can make a significant difference in how well you see details. Amber or brown lenses are excellent for enhancing contrast, making them a good choice for tasks that require precision. Green lenses help reduce glare without affecting color balance. Gray lenses provide the most accurate color representation.

Frame Material

Consider sunglasses with durable, lightweight frames that can withstand the rigors of farm work. Nylon frames are an excellent choice as they are sturdy, lightweight, and resistant to temperature fluctuations.

Polarization

Polarized lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water or metal. This feature can be particularly useful for farmers who work around irrigation systems or shiny equipment.

Fit and Comfort

Since farmers typically spend long hours outside, it’s important that the sunglasses fit well and are comfortable. Look for features such as adjustable nose pads and temple tips, as well as a wraparound style for the best fit and maximum protection.

Prescription Options

If you require prescription glasses, it’s worth considering prescription sunglasses. This will save you from the inconvenience of switching between your regular glasses and sunglasses.

Price

While you should invest in a good-quality pair of sunglasses, you also need to consider your budget. It’s better to buy a moderately priced pair that meets all your needs than an expensive pair that offers features you don’t need.

Brand Reputation

It’s always wise to buy from a reputable brand known for its quality and customer service. Read customer reviews and ratings to get an idea about the product’s performance and the company’s credibility.

1. Oakley Holbrook Polarized Sunglasses

Best Pick

Key Features

Oakley’s Holbrook Polarized Sunglasses are renowned for their high-definition optics. These sunglasses are built with Plutonite Lenses that offer top UV protection, filtering 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC, and harmful blue light up to 400mm. Oakley’s polarization technology minimizes glare with a process that produces the best polarized lenses on the planet.

Pros

• High-definition optics for clearer vision
• 100% UV protection
• Effective polarization reduces glare significantly

Cons

• May not be as durable as other models
• Higher price range

Final Verdict

Oakley’s Holbrook Polarized Sunglasses deliver where it matters most. The clarity of vision and top-notch UV protection make them a solid choice for farmers spending long hours outdoors. The high price might seem a bit steep, but for those who prioritize eye protection and comfort, these sunglasses are worth the investment.

2. Under Armour Igniter Sunglasses

Staff Pick

Key Features

Under Armour Igniter Sunglasses feature ArmourSight lens technology, providing up to 20% more undistorted peripheral vision, and are up to 10 times stronger than regular polycarbonate lenses. The lenses are also 100% UVA, UVB, and UVC ray protective.

Pros

• Enhances peripheral vision
• Strong and durable lenses
• Complete UV ray protection

Cons

• May not fit comfortably on all face shapes
• Not polarized

Final Verdict

Under Armour Igniter Sunglasses are perfect for farmers who value durability and visual acuity. Although not polarized, the enhanced peripheral vision is a standout feature that compensates for it. These sunglasses may not fit everyone perfectly, but for those who find a comfortable fit, they provide robust protection and lasting service.

3. Costa Del Mar Fantail Sunglasses

Budget Pick

Key Features

Costa Del Mar Fantail Sunglasses come with polarized lenses and a patented technology that blocks yellow light and boosts red, green, and blue light for more excellent contrast and clarity. They offer 100% UV ray protection and are built with a durable nylon frame.

Pros

• Polarized lenses with color-enhancing technology
• Durable build
• Offers complete UV protection

Cons

• Tend to be heavier than other models
• The wrap-around style might not be preferable for everyone

Final Verdict

Costa Del Mar’s Fantail Sunglasses offer fantastic clarity, particularly with the color-enhancing technology. While they may feel slightly heavier, their robust build promises durability, making them ideal for the tough farming environment. For those who don’t mind the wrap-around style, these sunglasses are an excellent choice for enhanced visual clarity and protection.

4. Smith Optics Guides Choice Sunglasses

Key Features

Smith Optics Guides Choice Sunglasses feature Techlite polarized glass TLT lenses. These lenses are scratch-resistant, anti-reflective, and hydrophobic. They offer 100% protection from harmful UVA/B/C rays and are optimized with ChromaPop lens technology for enhanced clarity and natural color.

Pros

• Scratch-resistant and anti-reflective lenses
• Enhanced clarity with ChromaPop technology
• Full UV protection

Cons

• More expensive than other models
• Some may find the fit too tight

Final Verdict

Smith Optics Guides Choice Sunglasses offer excellent durability and visual quality. The ChromaPop technology and anti-reflective coating are standout features. Though these sunglasses might be on the expensive side, the quality and performance justify the cost. Those who don’t mind a snug fit will appreciate these sunglasses’ excellent features and protection.

5. Wiley X P-17 Sunglasses

Key Features

Wiley X P-17 Sunglasses have shatterproof lenses that meet ANSI Z87.1-2010 high-velocity and high-mass impact standards, making them exceptionally sturdy. The sunglasses are also polarized and offer 100% UVA/UVB protection.

Pros

• Exceptionally durable and shatterproof lenses
• Full UV protection
• Comfortable and secure fit

Cons

• The design may not be appealing to everyone
• Non-color enhancing

Final Verdict

If durability is the priority, Wiley X P-17 Sunglasses are a great pick. The impact-resistant lenses make these sunglasses ideal for farming, and the secure fit ensures they stay in place throughout the day. While the design and lack of color enhancement might not be for everyone, the safety and protection these sunglasses provide are indisputable.

6. Maui Jim Peahi Sunglasses

Key Features

Maui Jim Peahi Sunglasses feature polarized lenses and come with patented PolarizedPlus2 lens technology that offers brilliant color, clarity, and contrast while blocking harmful UV rays and glare. The frame is made from durable and lightweight Grilamid polymer.

Pros

• Vibrant color, clarity, and contrast
• Lightweight and durable frame
• Complete UV protection

Cons

• Higher price range
• May be too large for individuals with small faces

Final Verdict

Maui Jim Peahi Sunglasses offer excellent color enhancement, clarity, and contrast, making them ideal for farmers who appreciate vivid visuals. While they are on the expensive side, their high-quality lenses and durable, lightweight frame justify the cost. They might not fit perfectly on smaller faces, but for those who find them comfortable, these sunglasses provide an unparalleled visual experience.

7. Serengeti Velocity Sunglasses

Key Features

Serengeti Velocity Sunglasses are known for their photochromic technology that adjusts the lens darkness based on the light conditions. The glasses also feature Spectral Control technology for high-definition contrast and color enhancement. The durable titanium frame offers lightweight comfort.

Pros

• Photochromic technology adjusts to light conditions
• Spectral Control offers high-definition contrast and color
• Lightweight and durable frame

Cons

• Non-polarized
• More expensive than some other models

Final Verdict

Serengeti Velocity Sunglasses are ideal for farmers who frequently experience varying light conditions. The ability to adjust to different light intensities is a huge benefit, despite the glasses being non-polarized. The price may be high, but the unique photochromic technology and the high-definition color and contrast make them worth the investment.

8. Bolle Python Sunglasses

Key Features

Bolle Python Sunglasses come with polarized lenses and a durable nylon frame. The glasses also feature a thermogrip that keeps them comfortably in place even during strenuous activities. The lenses provide 100% UVA/UVB protection.

Pros

• Polarized lenses reduce glare
• Thermogrip ensures glasses stay in place
• Complete UV protection

Cons

• The design might not appeal to everyone
• Not ideal for larger face shapes

Final Verdict

Bolle Python Sunglasses are a great fit for farmers who engage in strenuous work. The thermogrip feature keeps the glasses secure while the polarized lenses and complete UV protection offer robust protection for the eyes. While the design and size might not suit everyone, those who find them comfortable will appreciate the practical features these sunglasses offer.

9. Julbo Sherpa Sunglasses

Key Features

Julbo Sherpa Sunglasses are designed with mountaineers in mind, offering exceptional light protection with their Spectron 3 lens technology. The removable leather side shields provide extra protection against glare. The lightweight frame makes them comfortable for long-term use.

Pros

• Exceptional light protection with Spectron 3 lens
• Extra protection against glare with side shields
• Lightweight and comfortable

Cons

• Non-polarized
• The design might not suit everyone’s taste

Final Verdict

While Julbo Sherpa Sunglasses are primarily designed for mountaineers, their excellent light protection and side shields make them suitable for farmers too. They might not have the modern look that many prefer, but their functionality in reducing glare and protecting the eyes is commendable. If style isn’t a priority over function, these sunglasses are a worthy consideration.

10. Spy Optic Dirty MO Sunglasses

Key Features

Spy Optic Dirty MO Sunglasses feature polarized lenses with 100% UV protection. The glasses are made with Propionate, a material that’s sturdy, lightweight, and hypoallergenic. The sunglasses also feature a high-quality pin hinge system for a secure fit.

Pros

• Polarized lenses with 100% UV protection
• Durable and lightweight
• Secure fit with pin hinge system

Cons

• Non-color enhancing
• Might be too large for some face shapes

Final Verdict

Spy Optic Dirty MO Sunglasses are a solid choice for farmers who want durability and UV protection in a simple design. The pin hinge system ensures they stay securely on, even during active work. Though they lack color-enhancing features, their other qualities make them a good all-around choice for farming tasks.

Conclusion

A good pair of sunglasses can significantly improve a farmer’s outdoor experience, providing essential protection and enhancing vision. When choosing the best sunglasses for farmers, factors like UV protection, polarization, comfort, durability, and price should be considered. This guide offers an array of options that cater to different needs, ensuring that every farmer finds a pair that suits them best. Whether it’s the high-definition optics of Oakley Holbrook, the enhanced peripheral vision of Under Armour Igniter, or the vibrant color contrast of Maui Jim Peahi, the right sunglasses are out there waiting for you.