1. JULBO BIVOUAK
BEST FOR CLIMBERS, SKI TOURERS
With anti-fog photochromic lenses that darken from a low-light tint (for overcast skies) to ultra-dark (bright sun on snow), these lightweight shades are made for the mountains. But flip off the magnetic side shields and unclip the integrated leash (not pictured) and you’ll be set for playing in the sun at any elevation. $190;
2. KAENON HARD KORE
BEST FOR SAILORS, PADDLERS
Pair the chunky look of lifestyle glasses with some half-frame sport shades and you’ve got the water-loving Hard Kores. Thick temples blocked side light, while the extra-long, rubber-padded temple tips kept them secure even when things got wet and bumpy. Bonus: The lack of a frame below the polarized lenses means splashes drip right off. $209;
3. OAKLEY JAWBONE
BEST FOR CYCLISTS
These are Lance’s shades, and we understand why. Vented polycarbonate lenses resist fogging when you heat up, and testers reported fantastic peripheral vision despite the beefy frame. Variable light? Flip the rubber nose pads up and open the frame “jaws” to change lenses (nine tints available). $195;
4. GIRO FILTER
BEST FOR ENDURANCE ATHLETES
If your life is one big duathlon, the Filter is your shade. Tacky rubber pads keep them reasonably secure on sweaty runs, while the helmet-compatible frame and great peripheral vision are all about the bike. A quick flip of levers at the temples pops out one of five lenses (sold separately). From $159;
5. SMITH PIVLOCK V90
BEST FOR CYCLISTS
Off the bike, you risk looking like a vacationing Euro, but it’s worth it. The Pivlock’s crystal-clear, interchangeable polycarbonate shield felt like it was practically floating on our faces it’s one of the lightest shades on the market and, more important, dished up the best protection here. No polarization means you’ll spot slick road hazards. $119;
6. BOLLÉ KING
BEST FOR MULTISPORT JUNKIES
Yes, these budget-friendly shades kill it on street style, but with sticky rubber nose and temple pads and a remarkably lightweight nylon frame, the Kings are perfectly happy blasting down singletrack or, thanks to polarized lenses, spotting rainbows in an eddy. Check fit: The frame really is king size. $70;