The Best Motorcycle Sunglasses that you can’t ride without

If you think sunglasses are just a motorcycle accessory: think again.

Back in 2015, I was riding on the Beartooth Highway 212, taking in some of the best views I’ve ever seen (Yellowstone and National Forests of Gallatin, whew) when something flew in my right eye. I didn’t know if it was debris, dust, or an insect — but it felt like shrapnel. I wanted to rub my eye so bad, but I had the sense to soldier on until the nearest eatery where I rushed to splash my bloodshot eye.

There was a minuscule stone lodged in my eyelid (don’t ask me how it got there) and once I got it checked, I learned that tiny stone could’ve scraped my entire eyeball, leaving me blind in one eye forever.

There’s not a day gone past since I haven’t worn sunglasses while riding.

After routine testing, I’ve put together some of the best motorcycle sunglasses in the market in this article. They look cool, improve the riding experience, but most importantly? They keep your eyes safe.

Let’s dive right in.

Top 8 Best Motorcycle Sunglasses 2022

1. EJ Photochromic Sunglasses

My Top Pick

I chose EJ Photochromic Sunglasses as the Top Pick because I’ve been using them myself for the past couple of years, and nothing comes close. They’re one of the best photochromic sunglasses, and automatically adjust to direct harsh UV sunlight and get dimmer. It’s easier on the eyes, improves depth perception, and just makes the world look a little better.

These sunglasses are also in the ‘Classic’ style, so without any rubber around the nose and inner eye. I like the classic look, they look a lot more like regular glasses than motorcycle riding glasses and are pretty versatile for even when you’re not riding.

A useful little feature is the wire lock — keeps your earphone wires in place, which really helps while riding. These are polycarbonate lenses, which are a very durable lens material. I’ve dropped these a few times and still have no issues, the metal hinges are of great quality.

However: the Oakley Gascan takes in 11% light, and even at EJ’s dimmest, these glasses aren’t going to get as dim as that.

Pros

• Photochromic lenses adjust to UV light
• Classic style
• Wire lock for earbuds

Cons

• Plastic frame
• No size range (these run large)
• Won’t be as dark as regular sunglasses

Suitable For

These are the best motorcycle glasses for someone who wants to use them for other purposes as well. The matte-black classic style really frames the face, doesn’t look too sporty, and the photochromic lenses kick in just when you need them (in UV sun). It’s also great for someone looking for the perfect mid-range pair that they won’t have to replace every few months.

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON →

2. Oakley Men’s Gascan Oo9014 Sunglasses

Best High-End/Premium Sunglasses

You don’t have to be super into motorcycle riding glasses to have heard of Oakley. Oakley is one of the World’s top sports brands, and their Gascan Oo9014 glasses are as good as it really gets.

These glasses have a protective UV coating that blocks all the harmful blue lights up to the wavelength of 400 nm. These lenses are made up of Plutonite (yes, that’s a real substance) — super lightweight and comfortable material. They’re also wider than most lenses, even wider than my EJ Photochromic Glasses.

These sunglasses are made with Oakley’s PRIZM technology which enhances the color, contrast, and detail of the scene so that athletes who use them get the most out of their training activities. These Prizm black lenses are designed for bright light conditions and there reduces the light transmission to about 11%. Oakley has patented the HDO (high definition optics) technology. You’ll be surprised at how much more you can see with these, it really makes the scenery come alive by increasing finer details and shadows.

The frame of these sunglasses is built to withstand high impact, is stress-resistant, and is made up of O-matter which makes it durable and lightweight. They’re definitely comfortable. These are the type of sunglasses that you forget you’re even wearing.

Pros

• Great peripheral vision
• Black lenses let in less light
• Block blue light
• UV protection
• Comfortable fit

Cons

• Not affordable for everyone
• Lenses too wide might sport a blind spot for some

Suitable For

If you’re looking for a high-end pair of sunglasses that works well with open-faced helmets, look no further. These ultra-durable sunglasses have all the extra features you could want, and work well for just about any kind of rider. Now that’s a good long-term investment for your riding gear.

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON →

3. Faguma Polarized

Best Budget Sunglasses

I was really impressed with these Faguma sunglasses — even at a budget price, it has bright sunlight riding capabilities. The lenses are polarized and have a UV400 coating on them. This shields your eyes from harmful and carcinogenic UVA and UVB rays from the sun.

These lightweight polarized motorcycle glasses also get rid of glint and reduce glare (scattering or reflecting, to be precise) in direct bright sunlight.

The frame of these sunglasses is made up of plastic and foam padding which makes them pretty comfortable to use. Of course, with a plastic frame, these Faguma sunglasses won’t be as durable as the Oakley Gascan, but it’s still a great deal.

You also get some extra accessories (solid carrying case, microfiber cleaning cloth, carabiners, etc.) But if you’re not entirely convinced of the quality (I was skeptical at first too), these Faguma glasses come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros

• Affordable price point
• Polarized lens
• UV coating
• Minimize fogging
• Cleaning and storage accessories
• 30-day return guarantee

Cons

• Plastic frame
• Not photochromic

Suitable For

If you’re looking to purchase some affordable motorcycle sunglasses, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth with this pair of Faguma’s. While they may not be the most high-quality or durable option in the market, they serve the purpose and improve your vision while riding.

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON →

4. WYND Blocker

Best Wind-Blocker Sunglasses

What’s amazing about the WYND Blocker is how lightweight it is. The lens of these sunglasses is polarized, which reduces glare. It also has 100% UV 400 protection, which means it can block all the UVA and UVB rays from the sun. The polar fighter also retains the true color.

The wind-blocking feature truly shines when you’re riding at high speeds. You can easily ride at 100mph and enjoy the great wind resistance.

The lenses are designed to be impact-resistant and scratch-proof; one of the most important features when it comes to motorcycle sunglasses. It’s the TAC (triacetate cellulose) Technology that makes it completely scratch-proof and resistant towards sudden impact. With rubberized earpieces and a frame that maintains its stability on your head, these goggles are ideal not just for biking, but for all kinds of sports like running, cycling, fishing, and boating!

This product also includes a microfiber bag, which can also be used as a lens cleaner and a case. It is waterproof and floats on water because of its rubber body. So in case you use these for fishing, you’ll be grateful that you don’t have to dive underwater to retrieve them.

Pros

• Wind Blocker
• Impact-resistant
• Scratch proof
• Shatterproof
• Lifetime guarantee
• Lightweight
• Affordable

Cons

• A little smaller than regular sunglasses
• Not for full-face helmets

Suitable For

If you ride at speeds equal to or higher than 100mph , you’ll want a pair of goggles like this one with wind-resistant capabilities. They’re great if you’re on a budget as well, and last pretty long thanks to the shatterproof and scratch-proof features.

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON →

5. Verdster Airdam

Best Wrap-Around Sunglasses

The Airdam sunglasses are a wraparound frame from Verdster. Like others on this list, these sunglasses have a UV400 protection layer, which shields your eyes from harmful Ultraviolet rays. Having advanced UV protection makes a product more than just a sports goggle.

These are the best wrap-around sunglasses according to me because of how flexible the frame is. It really hugs the shape of your head while providing 180° protection. The frames have foam padding, which prevents fogging up but can get warm.

It comes in a range of lens colors. I really liked the grey ones. And the lens is polarized, which means there won’t be any harsh scattering from the sunlight that irritates the eyes. A polarized lens is designed to maintain the vibrancy and color of your actual vision. The frame of these sunglasses is reinforced with face foam making them more comfortable.

It’s also designed to give you a broader view and 180° protection from all kinds of things that nature may throw at you. These sunglasses tend to always stay put which is a huge bonus especially when you are driving at high speed or through dusty terrain.

Pros

• UV protected
• Polarized lens
• Broad vision
• Wraparound frames
• Affordable price point
• Foldable glasses case

Cons

• Not the best for small faces
• Can get warm

Suitable For

You’d need wrap-around glasses if you’re riding long distances or at high speeds. It’s extra wide-angle protection that’s necessary, and these are the best wrap-around sunglasses according to me. The anti-fogging is very reliable as well.

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON →

6. Belinous Safety Glasses

Best Tactical Sunglasses

These aren’t just great wraparound sunglasses, these are great wraparound sunglasses with four interchangeable lenses. How cool is that?

The first lens is a polarized ‘Smoke’ lens that filters out unnecessary light. These also reduce glare. The Smoke lens is likely going to be the lens you use the most.

The other three lenses are not polarized but are different colors — cadmium yellow lenses, copper lenses, and clear MLC. They mostly serve the purpose of improving your vision and aiding depth perception in different weather conditions (the clear ones are best for winter, while the yellow lenses add light).

Switching between the lenses is easy — just hold the frame and push the lens inward. The lenses stay put and don’t move once you’ve fixed them in. Belinous’ hollow frame made from Switzerland-made TR90 material: very sturdy.

This also makes the overall product very lightweight. It also has an enhanced grip which keeps the goggles in place — I can see how helpful that would be during extreme sporting events.

The lenses themselves are made up of polycarbonate which makes them withstand a heavy amount of rain, wind, and dust. You also get 24 hours of customer support, and these guys are pretty good at helping through troubleshooting (I called them up just to check, spoke to a very nice guy called Aidan)

Pros

• Four interchangeable lenses
• Color correction lenses
• Polycarbonate lenses
• Hinge vents prevent fogging
• Affordable price point

Cons

• Not much size range
• Doesn’t fit all head shapes
• Not great for shorter noses

Suitable For

These Belionous motorcycle glasses are perfect for someone who wants variety. Owning these glasses completely eliminates the need for multiple glasses, as you can swap the lenses.

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON →

7. Torege Polarized Sunglasses

Best Interchangeable Sunglasses

I have to mention the looks — these goggles look cool and trendy. They also looked the best on me, but I’m a function over form guy. These sunglasses come with 3 interchangeable lenses, all of which are 100% UV400 protected. This coating negates the harmful rays like the UVA and UVB from the sun.

It also helps in restoring the true color by eliminating scattered or reflected light, which makes the scenery more soft and clear, as well as good eye protection.

The main lens is colorful, and you can use the yellow one for the nighttime. Just like the Belinous glasses, the polarized one is black and can be used for driving and other activities. It has a rimless frame design, which is stylish and also improves the lower field of vision. It’s great to use for many sports like driving, running, fishing, racing, skiing, timing, and track since these won’t fall off easily.

Just like a few other glasses on our list, the lens material is polycarbonate, which makes them scratch-resistant, more durable, and shock-resistant.

I really liked that the nose pad of these goggles has soft rubber pads that allow you to wear them for a longer period of time. One of the only conceivable disadvantages of this product is that it doesn’t have a wraparound design, which means there is a fair chance that the dust would make its way to your eyes (only if you’re riding at super-high speeds, though).

Pros

• 3 interchangeable lenses
• Polycarbonate lens material
• Fashion statement glasses
• Affordable price point

Cons

• No facility for prescription lenses
• Not wrap-around

Suitable For

Another great budget sunglasses pair, the Torege Polarized glasses are perfect for anyone wanting to get a bang on their buck. The three interchangeable lenses work for different weather conditions. This is also a good option for someone looking for glasses that are a little fashion-friendly, these goggles double as a cool accessory to your riding gear.

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON →

8. Rivbos TR90

Most Lightweight Sunglasses

Just like the Belinous frames, these Rivbos sunglasses are made of high-grade Switzerland TR90 (a very strong and durable material). You can’t deny they look futuristic and cool as well. They’re designed for people with higher noses and fit pretty snugly.

The lens comes with TAC polarized glasses, so it protects from harsh scattered and reflected lights. It also has mirrored lenses that restore the true color of the scenery, while protecting your eyes. This product also comes with a UV400 protective coating that helps it in filtering a hundred percent of all the harmful blue light. I will say, however, that I like how it doesn’t filter out so much blue light that everything looks like late afternoon.

The package comes with many accessories, like a hard case with a soft inner lining which gives the glasses a soft cushion. You get cleaning accessories and the works.

This product also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee in the unlikely case you’re not happy with the fit or another feature promised by Rivbos.

Pros

• UV resistant
• Affordable price point
• Mirror-coated lenses
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• Not wrap-around
• No interchangeable lenses
• No anti-fogging

Suitable For

If you want a regular pair of motorcycle glasses that are polarized, mirror-coated, and relatively durable, this is a safe bet. While they may not have all the cutting-edge features that higher-priced glasses can offer, they do a great job at delivering value for money.

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON →

Buying Guide: What Makes a Good Pair of Motorcycle Sunglasses?

1. Safety Ratings

For obvious reasons, this is at the top of our list. Because there’s absolutely no point in getting a pair of goggles that won’t protect you from sunlight, wind, debris, or dust.

Riding goggles made from polycarbonate lenses will give you the best protection since they’re impact-resistant and usually shatter-proof. Look for UV400 coating. This coating over the polycarbonate material has eye protection.

2. UV Protection

You should know about the harmful effects of UV radiation — prolonged exposure to your eyes can cause permanent damage to your eyesight. Look for UV protection so that your eyes are not exposed to the long waves of UVA or the shortwave UVB rays.

3. Mirror Lenses Or Polarized Lenses

Polarized lenses are designed to protect your eyes against glares. All polarized lenses have crystal series integration that prevents excess light from transmitting through them.

But you should also know that these lenses are not suitable for riding at night as they block lights that are necessary for you to see the road ahead. That’s a big problem.

4. ANSI Approved Eyewear

You should also check that the product you are going for is approved by ANSI (American National Standards Institute). This is because the ANSI has laid down certain guidelines for building safe eyewear.

This also means that the product has gone through rigorous safety and quality testing to reach the customer. The goggles that have the ANSI Z87.1 certification can not only be used for riding, but also in chemistry laboratories.

5. Fog Resistance

You should opt for lenses with an anti-fog coating if you are living or working in an area where fog is a common problem. This keeps the glass completely fog-free and improves optical clarity. If the lenses have a double-sided coating, they’ll work even better in higher temperatures.

6. Wind Protection

This is another major factor you should keep in mind while going for the best motorcycle sunglasses. Because whenever your bike is at high speed all kinds of debris and dust can enter into your eyes through the gaps in your helmet. That might be enough to get your focus off the road, which is never good.

Also, the design of the eyewear itself plays an important role. For example, a wraparound frame is always the better option as it covers the entire eye. The type of foam used for the padding also plays an important role as certain materials can absorb moisture and prevent fogging.

7. Water Resistance

This is also an important feature that you should be looking for in your motorcycle glasses. If your sunglasses have a hydrophobic coating, then they will repel the water droplets. This helps you a lot during rain and keeps the water out of your vision. If you have a full-face helmet along with a glass shield, then you don’t need to worry about this feature.

Taking Care of your Motorcycle Sunglasses

Maintaining a pair of sunglasses is also essential to ensure that it performs and looks good for a long time.

When it comes to cleaning your sunglasses, make sure that the sunglasses are cleaned with warm water and soap often, depending on how often you use them. Also, remember to wipe with a microfiber cloth. Cotton fabric leaves lint and fogs up the lenses. You’ll usually get a piece of cleaning fabric along with your sunglasses.

Also, you should avoid using a glass cleaner and other ammonia-based products for cleaning as they can damage various protective layers on the glasses. (Save it for your coffee table!). Get some anti-static spray and spray on your lenses — it prevents the accumulation of dust.

Goes without saying, but don’t leave your glasses lying around! Store them in the same case they arrived in.

FAQs on Motorcycle Sunglasses

Final Thoughts

Choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses is ultimately a decision you need to make according to your riding style. If you want a quick recommendation, I’d say you can’t go wrong with either the Oakley Men’s Gascan Sunglasses or Belinous Safety Glasses. Good luck, and ride safe.