Wearing sunglasses is essential when you’re on the baseball diamond. No matter what position you play, being able to see the ball is vital for your performance and safety.  You will see pros and veteran ballplayers wear specially designed glasses during sunny day games.  Unless you want to get hit by a baseball coming at you at a high velocity because the sun is bothering your vision, you might want to grab a pair of baseball-specific glasses.

As with most types of sports equipment all glasses are not created equal, the best options on the market will offer a comfortable fit, a precise shade for UV protection, and a modern style that resembles other popular athletic glasses and your specific face shape. Different brands have different perks including durable frames, interchangeable scratch proof lenses, and comfortable nose and temple padding, to name a couple of commonly desired features.

Top Baseball Sunglasses Comparison Chart

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What to Look for in Baseball and Sports Sunglasses

When you search for the right pair of baseball sunglasses, you want to buy something tough, but also comfortable. Purchasing a pair of sunglasses that can handle “wear and tear” is your best bet because it gives you the freedom to move however you please with your sunglasses on. The best product will apply top quality optics into their lenses; helping you see even into direct sunlight.

The following factors are the most important when choosing a pair of sunglasses.

Firm Fit

A firm fit is a big deal when wearing baseball sunglasses because there is always the potential for sudden movement when playing. You want to wear a pair that stays tight on your face as they will be both more comfortable and secure when running to catch a fly ball.

No one wants to wear any product where you don’t feel comfortable and therefore are anxiously waiting to take it off. So whatever brand you choose you buy, you want to be certain that they are most comfortable for you. This may be easier said than done because everyone has different shaped heads and faces.

High-Quality Lenses

Lenses are the heart of a pair of sunglasses. The purpose of wearing sunglasses is to protect your eyes from the sun and potentially improve your vision if you are wearing a prescription pair. The best lenses will offer you a protectant of some sort; whether it is anti-scratch, anti-smudge, or in most cases: both. This is important when weighing which lenses are better than others.

Next, you want to consider the sunlight protection that your lenses provide. If you are sensitive to light and the sun tends to aggressively bother the eyes, hindering your vision, so you need something that will block your eyes from UV rays. If your eyes are extremely sensitive to light, I would recommend polarized sunglasses due to their advanced optics inside the lenses.

Airflow

Airflow should be considered especially when wearing glasses during intense physical activity. While you do want your sunglasses to be snug, you don’t want them to be sticking to your face. Some options have special ventilation pieces while others have standard nose and temple areas.

If you are fortunate enough to find these features in the same pair of glasses (which isn’t uncommon by the way) then you are on the right track. Sunglasses in baseball are significant because they help you see what’s around you, which in turn could save you from getting hit by a fastball or maybe even a loose baseball bat.

 

Best Baseball Sunglasses Reviews

 

1.   Under Armour Igniter Polarized Multiflection Sunglasses

One of the better names in athletic gear and apparel is offering us these shades at a fraction of the cost you’d pay for an ultra-premium brand.  These lenses are polarized (most aren’t) and they offer true colors under most conditions!  The “Multiflection” part of the name refers to lens coatings that repel water and anything that wants to stick to it, and it resists staining and scratching.  The frame is a combination of Titanium and Grilamid (proprietary material) which means they are STRONG!  It has an adjustable nosepad and cushion hinges that act like a shock absorber.  Of course they block 100% of UVA, UVB and UVC (never heard of UVC!!).  For the price, we think this is the best value!

Pros

• Great name!
• Lots of features found in higher priced sunglasses
• Extra attention is given to durability

Cons

• About 5 times more expensive than the cheapest shades you can find online (but they’re about 5 times LESS expensive than comparable brands)

 

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2.   Oakley Radar EV Path Sheild Sunglasses

The Oakley Path Radar sunglasses offer an extremely durable lens that will keep your eyesight unbothered while the frame fits firmly on your face. Holding less bulk compared to the Prizm, the frame on these Oakley glasses won’t squeeze your head to the point of discomfort, but it will be snug enough to move around at a fast pace without the worry of them falling off. The lens provided with these sunglasses offer optical precision and UV protection, which filters all UV rays. In addition, the lens is also coated with Hydrophobic; a permanent coating that prevents sweat, rain, dirt, or any other object from affecting your sight.

The Path sunglasses come with a hard case and a microfiber pouch, so when you are done using them you could store them safely. The best part is, this product comes with a lifetime warranty so no matter how many years go by, you can claim a new pair if the damage meets the requirements.

Pros

• ArmourSight vision enhances vision
• Seems slimmer than the Prizm at face value
• Impact resistant lens

Cons

• Some buyers complain that the glasses are too tight
• Select buyers said that their glasses fog when exercising, which may not be best for baseball players

 

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3.   Under Armour Core 2.0

The Under Armour Core glasses are unique because they offer several different color schemes and are inexpensive compared to other options. The UA exclusive Armoursight lens is significantly stronger compared to average sunglasses for baseball. These glasses are equipped with a lens coating that protects them from scratches and messy smudges. The frames are made with a technology that encourages airflow, so sweat buildup and other uncomfortable roadblocks would be nonexistent. They are also made with titanium for above average flexibility and strength, therefore the odds of breaking these baseball glasses are unlikely. The adjustable nose-pad guarantees a proper fit as well.

Pros

• Multi-flection lens coating is resistant to scratches and smudges
• Frames are made with airflow technology for a cool and comfortable feel 

Cons

• Reviews state that the Core glasses feel flimsy
• Very tight fit

 

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4.   Rawlings Pro Preferred Sunglasses

The Rawlings brand has served baseball well, from batting gloves, mitts, pants, baseball gloves, and in this case; baseball & softball sunglasses. These PRO Preferred R32 Sunglasses have a distortion-free lens which has full UVA/UVB protection, and its coating prevents scratches, while repelling sweat, dirt, rain, and any type of oil.  Its impact-resistance is also to be noted!

The Rawlings Pro Preferred baseball glasses are also very comfortable thanks to the padding on the bridge of the nose. This padding is soft so you can wear these sunglasses for hours at a time and not become uncomfortable while also keeping a firm grip on your head while you’re out there playing.

Rawlings is a safe and inexpensive bet when it comes to baseball equipment. Buying the Rawlings Youth Pro Preferred RY133 sunglasses would be a wise investment because they are listed at a VERY affordable price compared to “ahem” Oak…., Oakl…something,  and offer good quality.

Pros

• Lens coating guards water, dirt, and oils
• Soft padding on nose and temple areas improve comfort
• UVA-UVB protection
• Distortion-free lens

Cons

• Inexpensive price may be a reflection of the quality (though I hope not!! … say it ain’t so!)

 

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5.   Franklin MLB Flip up Glasses

The Franklin flip-up glasses are sponsored by the MLB, so for those players looking for authenticity, this would be a good purchase to go with. The best feature about these glasses that makes them unique from competitors is the flip-up lens. Want to know the point of glasses with a flip-up lens?

The flip-up lens feature can be used whenever you feel you don’t need the shade of your glasses. Instead of just taking the glasses off completely, you can just flip the lens upward and see with your natural vision. For example, you are out on the field while wearing your sunglasses and a cloud passes underneath the sun. At that time, there isn’t any sunlight directly hitting the field, so using the flip-up glasses can help you see normally instead of making your vision darker than your needs. If, in a few minutes the sun reveals itself, you’ll be able to simply put your lens back down to reap the benefits of your baseball sunglasses.

The lens only comes in blue so you should make sure you are content with that color prior to purchasing. In addition, this pair of baseball sunglasses offers a head-strap for added security.

Pros

• Flip-up ability makes it easier to change between lens protection and bare vision
• Both the frame and lens are impact resistant
• PRICE, PRICE, PRICE!!!

Cons

• Not polarized
• Frame doesn’t look durable

 

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6.   Nike Show X2

The Nike Show baseball sunglasses prove to possess some of the best quality out there. The Show sunglasses have a ventilated nose bridge, which helps with comfort and reduces the chances of the lenses fogging. The Nike optics that are built into the lens offer a precise vision profile for the user; including enhanced peripheral vision. You could also change the lens color to protect your eyes no matter how bright the sun is. This way, by snapping the lenses interchangeably, you could essentially wear any color you want and still have the clear vision provided by the Nike Show glasses.

These glasses are not polarized, so while they do offer enhanced vision and a resistance to fog, they may not be the best for someone who is very sensitive to light. Otherwise, the Nike Show X2 sunglasses off unique qualities that aren’t found in most baseball sunglasses.

Pros

• Ventilated nose bridge offers one of a kind airflow
• Interchangeable lenses let you prepare for any weather condition
• Max Optics offers fully enhanced vision

Cons

• Non-polarized

 

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7.   Easton Interchangeable Sunglasses

The Easton brand is also very prestigious in baseball. Just like Rawlings, Easton has provided an assortment of baseball equipment that offers superior value. Let’s be honest, however, this pair is firmly planted in the “economy” category and at its sub-$30 price tag, it’s not going to compete against $300 Oakleys.  That said, the frame does come with interchangeable lenses, so you can wear whatever shade you need to keep your vision at 100 percent. With dark, and yellow lenses, you have at least a couple of color options, which also provide different levels of UV protection.

The nose piece is adjustable and frame is designed to be ergonomic and flexible, which is a bonus for different face shapes.  Durability is extremely useful in baseball because you never know when a baseball may be coming your way. In the event that you dive for a line drive down the middle, you want to be confident that your sunglasses won’t fly off of your face. With the flexible, soft material installed near the nose and earpieces, you can be sure that your new glasses will fit comfortably on your head no matter how subtle or aggressive your movements are.

Pros

• Interchangeable lenses
• Unbeatable price

Cons

• Thin frame

 

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8.   Oakley Radarlock Asian Fit Sunglasses

The Oakley Radarlock sunglasses combine quality with detailed design (such as the “white fingerprint.”) and a variety of color options. The lens is interchangeable, using the Oakley custom switchlock system for an easy exchange. The frame is made with O-matter, so you can expect it to be very durable and lightweight. The Oakley frame alone will make you feel lighter, so you won’t feel as though wearing baseball sunglasses are holding you back. If you are concerned that your glasses would slip off in the rain or when you are sweating, fear not. The material built into the nose and temple pads become tackier when they are exposed to wetness; that way your baseball sunglasses won’t be obnoxiously sliding off your face when you need them most.

For the game of baseball, this pair is extremely convenient. Granted, they are extremely expensive for the sunglasses market, this product is worth the buy if you can afford it. The frame is made of durable, high-quality material; the lenses can be changed at a rapid pace thanks to the switchlock system, and glare-resistant optics that make your surroundings clearer than ever.  We don’t want to sound racist or anything, but the Asian fit version is specifically meant for facial bone structure with higher cheek bones and a wider nose bridge, so the fit is that much better!

Pros

• Interchangeable lenses
• Lightweight frame made with O-Matter
• Nose and temple pads will sit on your face firmly

Cons

• The Radarlock sunglasses cover a lot of area on the face

 

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9.   Under Armour Octane Baseball Tuned Sunglasses

UA started in 1996, and its goal was to make a better athletic T-shirt.  Well, it did that, and it’s been full-steam ahead since then!  These American-made sunglasses are yet another addition to UA’s top-of-the-line protective performance eyewear.  

The Octanes are tuned specifically for baseball with distortion-free vision edge to edge.  That’s a helpful feature for anyone doing anything, but especially important to anyone trying to catch a tiny ball flying at your head from the bright sky!  As expected, these lenses protect from 100% of all UVA, UVB and UVC wavelengths.  The frames are manufactured from injected polyamide which provides near-maximum strength and durability.  We especially appreciate the Auto-Grip self-articulating temples (arms) that conform to your specific unique head shape while minimizing uncomfortable squeeze!  

The screw-less hinges (cam-lock) make the temples lock into place securely.  Many sunglasses have temples that do not lock at all.  They just open.  These shades offer a step up in performance quality on that front and lots of others!  The polycarbonate lens is made with UA’s “ArmorSight” technology (enhances clarity) and they’re polarized to reduce glare.  The nose pad position is variable and UA also applies a proprietary coating on their lens called UA Storm which repels moisture and oil for an easier cleaning process (when you do have to clean eventually).

Pros

• The frame offers a proper fit with customizable features (automatic)
• Distortion-free technology
• Locking arms (temples)
• Polarized

Cons

• Over $100 (middle of the road price)
• UA claims they’re polarized while one purchaser says “NOT”.  

 

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10.   Oakley Men’s Radar Ev Shield Sunglasses

Here we are again with Oakley shades!  There’s a reason you know!  Aside from being one of the most iconic names in the sunglass industry, Oakley offers a quality product for athletics that is rivaled by few.  The Radar Ev Shield offers a revolutionary design (we think) that extends the upper field of view by making the lens a tiny bit taller.  They’re all US made for excellent quality and durability.  The lens on this pair of shades is not polarized but as always, has 100% UV protection.

In case you didn’t know, here’s a tidbit of helpful info!  Oakley was specifically created for athletics.  They’ve been given over 540 patents for design, innovation and artistic style!  That’s insane!!

Of course, you know that with such quality, comes a price tag to reflect that.  But, it’s not ridiculous!  It’s just enough to make sure you take care of these babies for a good many years to come!

Pros

• They’re Oakeys!!!  Hello!?
• Made in the USA
• Unparalleled quality
• One-piece lens and design look futuristic.
• 100 percent UV coating so you don’t have to worry about bothersome UV rays.
• O-matter frame is extremely durable

Cons

• • Expensive compared to lesser-known names (they’re over $100 okay!?)
  • Non-polarized

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How To Choose the Right Baseball Sunglasses for You!

 

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The Verdict

Baseball sunglasses are very helpful when trying to maintain or enhance your vision out in the field. Having the proper pair while playing baseball will assist you in seeing what’s in front of you without any distraction from the sun, rain, or sweat. Baseball sunglasses will assure you protection from the sun, dirt, or rain. Sunglasses such as the UA Rival, Oakley Prizm, and the Nike Show X2 are models that offer prestigious branding, durable material, and lenses made with special material that decreases the likelihood of fogging or scratches.

Other baseball shades such as the Easton Diamond, Rawlings R7RV, and Franklin MLB glasses are well-known brands in the sport that are more affordable yet offer you just as much protection and quality. Depending on what characteristics you value the most, and possibly even your brand loyalty, these ten sunglasses for baseball have the best variety of options that can help you out in the field.

When purchasing online, it is important to confirm that the sunglasses you are buying are completely authentic prior to purchase. Unfortunately, there are occurrences where third-party retailers sell products online that aren’t necessarily legitimate. Each brand uses different stamps of approval that prove their products to be authentic, so it would be best to go to each website and find out where their approval mark is located on their sunglasses.

Want to see the ball better when up to bat? Tired of diving for a ball and getting dirt in your eyes? Is Sun bothering you out there? Especially when you try and catch a fly ball? Get yourself a pair of sunglasses. But don’t go out and buy any pair of sunglasses. You need to buy a pair with good aerodynamic shape, lenses that clarify your vision while protecting you from the sun. Baseball sunglasses will look fashionable for a baseball player; have good quality lenses and a flexible frame. With the right pair, you can take your game to the next level.

 

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