Best Tactical Sunglasses – 2020 Top Picks Reviewed

| Last Updated: January 14, 2022

Do you have an adventure-loving soul and never want the fun to stop? 

If yes, then you probably find yourself out in the sun all the time. This can have some serious effects on your eyes. So, do you have something to protect your eyes while the sun does its best to harm them? 

If not, then you need to procure some protective eyewear at your earliest convenience. Tactical sunglasses are the best option to help you retain healthy vision.

Comparison of the Best Tactical Sunglasses

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • It has composite lenses fixed in it.
  • Best overall for the variety of lens colors offered.
  • The width and height of lenses is 1 centimeter each.
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  • Useful accessories make these the runner up.
  • Polycarbonate graded optical lenses alter according to light.
  • Greater high-velocity impact performance than other tactical sunglasses.
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  • They come with ballistic impact resistance.
  • Best for the money due to the offered comfort.
  • Nylon frame has great strength and is easy to wear.
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  • The lenses have a width of 62 millimeters.
  • The sunglasses have non-polarized lenses.
  • Best from Under Armor that won’t ever disappoint you.
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  • The lenses have a height of 35 millimeters.
  • A 14-millimeter wide bridge for easy wearing.
  • These sporty tactical sunglasses are the best from Oakley.
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  • They have a universal fit frame.
  • These ESS sunglasses are our editor’s pick.
  • Black crossbow suppressor frame is quite stylish.
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How Are Tactical Sunglasses Different Than Normal Sunglasses?

Tactical sunglasses might seem like just any other normal sunglasses, but appearances can be deceiving; their function is very different from usual everyday sunglasses. Tactical glasses have specific filters in place to ensure that all the harming agents stay away from your eyes. Unlike regular options, tactical shades provide protection against ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

They also feature impact resistance, which prevents shards from entering your eyes if your glasses shatter due to accidental damage (such as falling down or being hit with flying debris). They also have wrap-around protection, which ensures that you stay safe when shooting or taking part in other potentially hazardous activities.

In addition to all this, these are intended for adventures, so they have higher reliability. They won’t leave you in the lurch when you are out and need sturdy eye protection. 

Characteristics of Our Favorite Models

Considering that tactical sunglasses are the best way to protect your eyes, you’d want to get the best ones. So, here are some of the characteristics of our favorite models to help you choose the best option. 

Polarized Lenses

Such sunglasses not only provide protection but also improve visuals. Polarized lenses improve your quality of view, and colors are far clearer. Polarized lenses also improve the angles and positioning while you view things through them. They even improve your vision by reducing eye fatigue, meaning that if you are going low on sleep, polarized lenses can really help you. 

Durability

What’s the point of investing in some cool tactical sunglasses when they are not going to last long? This is why we like units that offer higher durability. The longer a pair of tactical sunglasses lasts, the more valuable it is, both for your wallet and for your peace of mind. 

Wraparound Protection

Wraparound protection is something that most of our favorite models offer. This protection works in tandem with the protection offered by the lenses to help you have a better experience. Mostly, the lenses cover rays coming directly from the sun, but some rays enter from the side. Wraparound protection prevents even those from reaching your eyes. 

Review of the Best Tactical Sunglasses

Tactical sunglasses are essential for folks who enjoy being active out in the sun. When choosing the right pair, you might as well start with the best options. Here are some of the best possible choices that we have hand picked for you:

Best Overall:
Wiley X Men's Valor Sunglasses

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Pros

  • Greater range due to the one-size-fits-all design.
  • 100% protection against alpha and beta UV rays.
  • High polarization and better view.
  • Plastic frame helps to avoid injury in case of a crash.
  • 18-millimeter bridge of sunglasses provides better support.

Cons

  • Sometimes fog up, but not too much.
  • Ends of the arms can get quite tight.

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers have been mostly happy with their purchase; there have been no reports of any major issues. Buyers love the dust and UV-protection that leave their eyes refreshed. They have also found the Willy X Valor tactical sunglasses to have amazing polarization.

Why it Stands Out to Us

These Willy X Valors stand out to us because of their lenses and amazing aesthetics. There are lenses for all conditions and seasons, making them the ideal choice. The lenses do not pop out of the frame, but if you want to change them, it is quite easy. The lenses are highly polarized as well, which is another win.

Who Will Use This Most

People who spend long periods of time under the sun will find these the most useful. This is because they have amazing protection against different kinds of UV rays. They also have ballistic impact resistance, so they are perfect for people who go off in dangerous environments.

Bottom Line

In summary, this product has a great appearance as well as excellent functioning. The frame is strong and can bear almost any physical pressure that you could put on it. The lenses have not only incredible polarization, but also very stylish colors.

Runner-up:
 Revision Military Sawfly Military Kit

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Pros

  • Head strap helps in keeping these sunglasses in place.
  • Chemical-resistant coating protects from DEET too.
  • Provision of 100% alpha and beta UV rays protection.
  • High anti-fog performance with a reusable anti-fog cloth.
  • Lenses have a longer life due to scratch-resistant coating.

Cons

  • Uncomfortable if you wear them with headsets.
  • Reflects your face when the light enters from upwards.

What Recent Buyers Report

People who bought these recently gave very positive feedback. Customers love everything from the microfiber pouch to the head strap that comes with these. They appreciate the side protection and high impact resistance as well. The only problem that buyers have reported is the discomfort when worn with helmets.

Why it Stands Out to Us

These amazing tactical sunglasses catch our eye with useful and impressive accessories. The anti-fog cloth helps in having clear vision even in the cold. The pouch helps you carry the sunglasses and accessories easily, and the head strap is the best support that these sunglasses could have.

Who Will Use This Most

These have a nice and simple frame, making them ideal for travelers. These look so cool that people wearing them look impressive all the time. This is why vacationers and travelers can have the most fun with them. Military personnel will also love these since they are very practical.

Bottom Line

These have been designed to help you have better vision in sunlight, and they do it well. The additional touches are a huge plus, making them one of the most highly rated tactical sunglasses on the market.

Best for the Money:
Edge Eyewear TSK216 Kazbek Polarized Safety Glasses

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Pros

  • Added comfort due to TPR temple.
  • Greater flexibility due to nylon construction.
  • 99.9% blockage of alpha and beta UV radiation.
  • Polycarbonate coating protects from any scratches.
  • Ballistic MCEPS GL-PD 10-12 compliance provides high durability.

Cons

  • Lenses have less distance from eyes.
  • Restricted peripheral vision reduces visual range.

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers have had a positive user experience. Most of them are repeat buyers since their first pair lasted so long and served them so well. They love the TPR temples, which makes wearing them easier and less fatiguing. There have been some size issues, but overall, customers are very happy with these.

Why it Stands Out to Us

These Edge Eyewear sunglasses grab our attention because of their high durability. The nylon frame is flexible and does not break easily. Thus, these stick around for a longer time than other options available at the same price. The scratch resistance is admirable too, as the lenses stay scratch-free even after falling.

Who Will Use This Most

These tactical sunglasses have a simple and practical design, making them the best for military folks. The sunglasses are equally ideal for travelers, bikers, and thrill-seeking souls. As they offer a 99.9% UV rays filter, they are great for areas with more intense sunlight exposure.

Bottom Line

These tactical sunglasses are definitely there for the win. They have so much to offer that the price seems almost too low. So, choose these if you want a cool look and an even better experience.

Best from Under Armour:
Under Armour Igniter 2.0

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Pros

  • Plastic frame makes them easier to wear.
  • Plastic lenses are less prone to breakage.
  • Coating prevents stains and water accumulation.
  • 100% protection against alpha and beta UV rays.
  • Polycarbonate coating on the lenses provides high scratch resistance.

Cons

  • Lenses are not polarized.
  • All-plastic frame is not flexible or durable.

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers have mixed feelings about these Under Armor sunglasses. Some of them love the shade they provide to the eyes, while others complain of a bad tint. Buyers appreciate the UV-resistance and enjoy the scratch-resistance it offers. However, some people consider them to be overpriced.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This product stands out to us because of the attractive design and 100% UV rays protection. We also like these for the polycarbonate coating and a hint of titanium.

Who Will Use This Most

People who want something cool yet simple will love these. The frame has a nice built and a low weight, which prevents eye fatigue. This makes these perfect for those who get longer sunlight exposure each day.

Bottom Line

Under Armor has modern equipment, and these sunglasses hold true to their promise. Sadly, they have a less durable body; that said, they also have very reliable lenses. So, if you want something practical yet light, then these are for you.

Best from Oakley:
Oakley Men's Half Jacket 2.0 XL Iridium Sport Sunglasses

Pros

  • Coating for 100% UV rays protection.
  • Attractive design for people who are into sports.
  • Plastic frame has a lighter weight than other materials.
  • 120-millimeter long arm provides comfortable support.
  • Iridium makes the lenses more suitable for sunlight exposure.

Cons

  • Do not have polarized lenses.
  • Plastic lenses have lesser visual clarity.

What Recent Buyers Report

People who made their purchase recently liked these tactical sunglasses a lot. They love the lightweight and long frame, which stays on easily. They report almost no fatigue, even after hours of use. Buyers have also been happy about the way that the lenses resist any scratches and stains.

Why it Stands Out to Us

These Oakley sunglasses have made it to our list because of the sporty feel that they have. Oakley has surely made a huge success with these as they have thick lenses that hold up to heavy impacts.

Who Will Use This Most

People who are athletic or need to practice under the sun mostly need these sunglasses. They are not only light in weight but also have a nice grip, meaning that they do not fall off easily, even when users are running.

Bottom Line

These Oakley sunglasses have a nice model with high practical usage. They are easy to use and maintain, so there is hardly anything to dislike about them. The only downside is the lack of polarization, which causes glare sometimes.

Editor's Pick:
ESS Eyewear Crossbow Suppressor ONE Kit

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Pros

  • Guaranteed UV ray protection of 100%.
  • Classy appearance of rose-tinted lenses.
  • Universal fit makes it ideal for most face widths.
  • High-definition copper lenses provide better vision.

Cons

  • Lenses do not have any polarization.
  • No peripheral or side protection.

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers have been glad that they purchased these sunglasses. They like everything about them, including the color of the lenses and shape of the frame. They have reported a considerable difference in their eyes’ health after using these, demonstrating the impressive protection quality of these sunglasses.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We like these tactical sunglasses because of their stylish and eye-catching design. The crossbow frame has an exceptionally strong construction that bears high-velocity impact too.

Who Will Use This Most

These are best for travelers and vacationers who are expecting long summer days ahead. They also work equally well for bikers and mountaineers who do not mind sunlight but have problems with glare.

Bottom Line

These are among the best tactical sunglasses options out there, so consider them seriously. We assure you that you will never want any other sunglasses once you get used to these.

Perks of Getting New Tactical Sunglasses

Tactical sunglasses are definitely in a class of their own when it comes to the world of sunglasses, wouldn't you agree? As an essential piece of gear, having a pair will benefit you immensely. They have so much to offer to the people who buy them that they are just irresistible. Here are some of the most notable perks of getting new tactical sunglasses:

Comfort

Tactical sunglasses promise comfort more than any other sunglasses out there. This is because they are designed to focus more on the convenience of the users. Most sunglasses aim at being fashionable and highly attractive, but that’s not the priority with tactical sunglasses.

This is why one of the primary perks of getting new ones is added comfort. They are so comfortable that you can wear them for hours on end without feeling any burden on your eyes. In fact, they minimize eye fatigue, which in turn, relaxes the eyes. 

Enhanced Visuals

The purpose of using sunglasses is to have a steady and continuous view of things. This is something that tactical sunglasses are amazing at. These glasses provide steady vision by improving visual angles. There is also less distortion of colors, and you get to see things as they are. 

Eye Shield

Another name for tactical sunglasses is "eye shields" because they protect eyes from every possible harmful thing. They not only keep UV rays away but also protect your eyes from dust, debris, and other irritants. If they are wraparound, then you have nothing to worry about at all. They will protect your eyes from even minimal radiation that gets through the frame. 

Aspects to Consider Before Buying

Now that you know all about tactical sunglasses and want to buy a pair, you need to know how to select one. To make buying the perfect tactical sunglasses easier, here is a buying guide for you:

Radiation Filter

Since the most basic motive of buying tactical sunglasses is to protect your eyes from radiation, considering the radiation filter carefully is a must. The radiation filter should be competitive enough to keep all alpha and beta UV rays away. Also, note that the filter should not disrupt your view. Henceforth, you need to consider the functionality and efficiency of the radiation filter before buying tactical sunglasses. 

Impact Resistance

Impact resistance is also very important when it comes to tactical sunglasses. This is because you can never be sure of not running into dangers. If you are an adventurer and wander off to dangerous places, then you need greater impact resistance. So, analyze the impact resistance seriously before getting a new pair. 

Price

Price is something that determines if you will be getting the pair you have your eyes on. There are tactical sunglasses that are aptly priced and offer many features. Conversely, there are those that cost a lot but are not that competitive. So, you need to look at the cost-benefit ratio as well. 

Conclusion

To sum it all up, tactical sunglasses are surely a far better option than usual sunglasses. They protect your eyes from all possible harm done by sunlight. This alone is something that promises better vision and a healthier adventurous life

Just remember to see what they offer and how much they cost. As a result, you will get the best pair that meets all your requirements.