Summary
Peak Vision Sunglasses – Ideal for Golf and Beyond
I have owned a half-dozen pairs of Peak Vision Sunglasses for more than 10 years. Additionally, I have a collection of other high-end sunglasses that I rotate based on my mood. However, the Peaks are my preferred choice when playing golf and shooting photographs, as well as for driving. Why, you may ask?
The Importance of Optics
The reasons are multi-faceted. First and foremost, these sunglasses do not seem to restrict light, which is crucial for my eyes as they are not what they used to be. I find that I can see quite well with them on, unlike standard sunglasses. Moreover, I believe the amber portion of the lens enhances contrast while the upper gray area reduces glare.
The Science Behind Peak Vision
Dual-Zone™ Light Management:
The bright sky generates over 80,000 LUX units, while the turf reflects only 4% of ambient light. Traditional solid-tint lenses (amber or gray) struggle to optimize vision under these lighting conditions. This is why many golfers wear standard sunglasses on their hats—they cannot see effectively!
Peak Vision’s patented Dual-Zone™ light filtration combines two unique filters in the lens:
- 20% transmission gray Upper Zone manages overhead glare while preserving accurate distance perception.
- 60% amber Lower Zone spectrally increases contrast, helping you read topography and grain better on the green.
A 2006 study at the University of Utah evaluated 52 golf professionals for UV-related eye diseases, revealing alarming statistics:
- 51% had some form of UV eye disease
- 48% had pterygia
- 400% increased prevalence of pterygia compared to the general population
- 4 to 26 times more likely to develop some form of UV-related eye disease
Evaluating Peak Vision Sunglasses
As a gadget enthusiast, I value high-quality equipment like cameras, phones, and sunglasses. Years ago, I spent time on an island near the equator where the sun’s intensity was extreme. Consequently, I have a wealth of experience with various high-end sports eyewear. Some brands live up to their claims; others are underwhelming or even dangerous. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the brand I choose is both safe and effective.
My evaluation of the Peaks is based on several criteria:
- Ultra Violet Light: UV rays pose significant risks, including cataracts and skin cancer. Peak Vision sunglasses offer 100% UV400 protection.
- Polarization: While polarized lenses reduce glare by allowing only vertical light rays to pass through, Peak Vision sunglasses are not polarized. Initially, I found this concerning, but it did not affect my vision; in fact, it might even provide an advantage on the golf course.
- Lens Color: Most sunglasses use gray lenses, which do not distort color. Peak Vision’s patented Dual-Zone™ gray and amber lenses enhance light perception, allowing me to see better.
- Frames: Considerations include weight, durability, and style. My Peak Vision SL8s, their most popular model, are incredibly strong and comfortable. I often forget I’m wearing them, even while looking through a camera viewfinder.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
High-end sunglasses can be pricey, with some brands exceeding $500. However, Peak Vision’s SL8s are more reasonably priced at around $169, and with a bit of searching, they can be found for as low as $125.
Overall Rating: I highly rate my Peaks for their aesthetics, safety, and durability. They are recommended for anyone seeking quality sunglasses!
To find a retailer near you, please visit the Peak Vision Sports website.