Golf holidays are all about enjoying good weather, scenic courses and a break from the usual routine. But when the sun is shining, it’s not just your skin that needs protection. Your eyes can take a real hit during long days on the course, and that’s where a decent pair of sunglasses comes in.
Wearing sunglasses when playing golf isn’t just about looking the part – it can help your game and protect your health at the same time.
Protect Your Eyes from UV Damage
Spending hours outdoors without any eye protection can lead to long-term damage from UV rays. The risk isn’t always obvious straight away, but over time, it can lead to issues like cataracts or problems with vision. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself while still enjoying the sunshine.
Even on cloudy days, UV rays are still present. Just like you wouldn’t skip sun cream, your eyes also need some shielding.
Cut Out the Glare and Stay Focused
One of the biggest challenges when playing golf in sunny weather is the glare. It can make it hard to follow your ball, read the green or even see the contours of the fairway properly. Polarised sunglasses help to reduce that glare, giving you a clearer view of the course and a better shot at judging distance and direction.
That slight squint you get when the sun hits the water or a bunker can throw you off more than you realise. Good lenses help keep your focus where it should be – on your swing.
Choose The Right Lenses for the Job
Golf sunglasses aren’t just a fashion statement. The colour and type of lens you choose can make a real difference to how you see the course. Amber or brown lenses are popular because they boost contrast and depth, which can help you pick out the ball more easily against grass and sky.
Grey lenses are great for keeping colours natural and reducing overall brightness. If you’re heading somewhere that gets a mix of weather, a pair with interchangeable lenses or photochromic lenses (that adjust to the light) could be a smart choice.
Comfort Matters on the Course
You’ll likely be wearing your sunglasses for four or five hours at a time, so they need to feel right. Look for a lightweight frame with rubber grips on the arms and nose bridge to stop them slipping as you move.
It’s worth trying them on with your golf cap or visor too, to make sure they sit comfortably together. You don’t want to be constantly adjusting them between holes.
Don’t Forget a Spare Pair
It might sound over the top, but packing a second pair of sunglasses is a good idea, especially if you’re travelling abroad. Lenses can get scratched, frames can snap, and it’s always when you need them most. A backup pair means no disruption to your holiday and no squinting through your final round.
Small Change with Big Impact
Wearing sunglasses on your golf holiday might seem like a small thing, but it’s one of those little changes that makes a big difference. Your eyes will thank you for it, your focus will improve, and you might even shave a couple of shots off your score.
It’s all part of staying comfortable and enjoying every round to the fullest. So before you pack your bag and book your tee times, make sure your sunglasses are coming along for the ride.