Finding the best glasses for outdoors can be challenging! You want something lightweight and incredibly durable without compromising style and functionality. Additionally, if your job requires you to work out in the sun, you really need the added versatility of sunglasses (prescription or otherwise).

No matter what your wants or needs are, you’ll find the 9 best eyeglasses for outdoor enthusiasts in this article.

Do Sunglasses Protect Your Eyes?

The short answer is yes. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are extremely damaging—and beating down on us every day. Prioritizing your eyes’ protection is crucial when you’re outdoors and directly underneath those rays. There are a few key reasons why wearing sunglasses while outdoors is a good idea, beyond simply looking cool.

Here are just three of the ways that sunglasses protect your eyes:

Protect your eyes from UV rays and more

High-quality sunglasses can protect your eyes from harsh UV rays as well as shield eyes from dust, sand and other debris.

Airborne debris like dust and sand can scratch your cornea, the clear outer layer of your eye, possibly causing permanent damage. Avoiding sun-related eye disease is critically important to your future health. Exposure to harmful UV rays increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and more. These conditions can even result in the loss of sight, but being proactive now about eye protection helps keep your eyes healthy now—and long into the future.

Increase visibility

Outdoor activities typically require lots of attention. Whether you’re out for a run, riding your bike, skiing, boating or riding an ATV, you need to see where you’re going, think fast and make quick decisions. Wearing a good pair of sunglasses can prevent serious injury to yourself and others.

Prevent headaches and/or migraines

If you suffer from regular headaches or migraines, wearing sunglasses while outdoors can help. They offer instant relief by blocking the harsh light. If your headaches or migraines are triggered by bright light, a good pair of sunglasses helps prevent such episodes from happening in the first place.

All in all, investing in and wearing high-quality sunglasses has many benefits. Find our top recommendations later on in this article.

What Are Progressive Glasses and Sunglasses?

Progressive glasses and sunglasses are ideal for those who need to see both near and far. They’re great because they can offer crystal-clear vision from any distance and allow you to venture out into the great outdoors more confidently.

With progressive glasses, you don’t have to switch pairs as much. They accommodate up to three prescriptions in one lens, offering a smooth transition from close distances to farther ones.

If you spend lots of time outdoors in the sun or are an athlete, a pair of progressive sunglasses is a convenient, functional choice.

6 Best Sunglasses for Working and Playing Outside

Whether you’re a professional working primarily outdoors or an enthusiast who loves adventure, sunglasses aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity, both protecting your eyes from the sun and increasing visual clarity. At Visionworks, all our sunglasses can be customized with your prescription.

Here is our list of the top 6 best sunglasses for working outdoors.

Dragon DR512S

These sunglasses are specially designed for people needing a durable pair of glasses with great performance. These Dragon DR512S sunglasses are perfect for hiking, biking or hitting the slopes. No matter which outdoor activities you love, these sunglasses have your back and support your active lifestyle.

Shop Now

Nike Pivot Six EV1091

The Nike Pivot Six EV1091 sunglasses are a stylish option, perfect for super active lifestyles. They have rubberized temples, giving you a secure fit—and they’re composed of lightweight material, making them extra comfortable.

Shop Now

Columbia C543S Flatlander

These lightweight, protective sunglasses are great for everyday use. If you’re looking for extremely comfortable glasses, these have rubberized earpieces for a perfect fit. They’re secure and hold up through any activity.

Shop Now

Lacoste L163S

These Lacoste aviator-style sunglasses are lightweight and durable. The gunmetal finish sets them apart and levels up any look. If they fit your style, you can’t go wrong.

Shop Now

Columbia Newtown Ridge

Columbia glasses are built to last and designed for durability outdoors. These classic matte black wire glasses are perfect if you want something secure, light and versatile.

Shop Now

Nike 7091S

Nike is one of the most iconic brands in sports, so naturally their sunglasses are some of the best on the market. These glasses are sleek, durable and comfortable—and never go out of style.

Shop Now

Great Frames to Have Made into Sunglasses for Outdoor Activities

You can have these 3 highly durable and stylish frames made into either plain glasses or sunglasses with your choice of lens tint!

Nike 7091

Nike strikes again with this trendy design. Any pair of Nike glasses is a good bet if you’re looking for durable eyeglasses to last you through any adventure. These frames are particularly fun and stylish, while also lightweight and practical. Athletes love them!

Shop Now

Columbia C8003

These classic matte black frames from Columbia give you clean lines and a sleek look while being lightly textured, so they’re grippy and secure.

Shop Now

Lacoste L2842

Classy, sleek and versatile, these Lacoste glasses are great for anyone wanting to wear a stylish and timeless design during a variety of activities.

Shop Now

Find Your Perfect Pair of Glasses at Visionworks

Want more options? You’re in luck! You can find all these glasses and many more at Visionworks. We know it isn’t always easy to find the perfect pair of glasses or sunglasses, especially when you have a specific need (such as working or playing outdoors). Our team can help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

In the mood to browse? Check out all our available options on our website.


Information received through Visionworks® content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Claims regarding blue light efficiency are supported by manufacturer-provided test results.