Sunglasses are an essential accessory for any baseball player. Not only do they allow you to see the ball better, but they also protect your eyes from the harsh sun. As one of the top brands in performance eyewear, Oakley makes some of the best baseball sunglasses on the market. But which are the best cheap Oakley baseball sunglasses to choose? This blog post will cover the top options that won’t break the bank.
Why Wear Sunglasses for Baseball?
There are a few key reasons why baseball players need to wear sunglasses:
Reduce Glare
The stark contrast between the bright sky and shaded areas of the field can cause significant glare. This can make it difficult to track and see the ball properly. Oakley sunglasses have specialized lenses that reduce glare and improve visibility.
Protect Against UV Rays
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause conditions like cataracts. Sunglasses filter out 100% of UV rays to protect your eyes when out on the field for extended periods.
Improve Visual Acuity
The optimized lenses in Oakley sunglasses enhance visual clarity and depth perception. This allows you to better judge distances and see the ball more sharply.
Prevent Eye Strain
Squinting to see on a sunny day can lead to eye fatigue and headaches. Sunglasses alleviate eye strain to keep you comfortable.
Best Cheap Oakley Baseball Sunglasses
Oakley Holbrook Sunglasses
A classic retro-inspired frame with Prizm lenses, the Holbrook model offers great performance at an affordable price point. The lightweight O Matter frame is durable and comfortable for all-day wear. Prizm technology boosts visual detail and color recognition. At under $100, these are a budget-friendly option.
Oakley Radar EV Path Sunglasses
Designed for sports performance, these feature an angled lens shape to expand your downward and peripheral vision. The tall lens also protects against sun, wind, and impact. The Radar EV Path comes equipped with Oakley’s Prizm lenses for ultimate optical clarity when tracking the ball. Priced under $120, these are a solid value pick.
Oakley Fives Squared Sunglasses
With their stylish rounded lens shape, the Fives Squared model has plenty of baseball flair. The lightweight O Matter frame is designed to stay in place during activity. The High Definition Optics lenses filter 100% of UVA/UVB/UVC rays while minimizing distortion. Often found for under $90, the Fives Squared are budget-friendly Oakleys.
Oakley Half Jacket 2.0 XL Sunglasses
Optimized for sports performance, the Half Jacket 2.0 XL version features an extended lens shape for enhanced downward vision. The lightweight O Matter frame is durable and stress-resistant. Signature Oakley High Definition Optics provide razor sharp clarity when tracking balls in motion. For just over $100, these are great quality for the price.
Oakley Mainlink Sunglasses
A squared-off lens shape offers an expansive field of view with these sunglasses. The no-slip Unobtainium ear socks and nose pads keep them secure during play. Oakley’s Plutonite lenses filter 100% of UVA/UVB/UVC rays while minimizing glare. With Prizm technology for visual enhancement, the affordable Mainlink model costs around $90.
What to Look for in Cheap Oakley Baseball Sunglasses
Here are a few key features to look for when shopping for discounted Oakley baseball sunglasses:
- Prizm Lenses – This Oakley innovation fine-tunes individual colors to improve detail recognition. Prizm lenses enhance visibility on the field for tracking balls and plays.
- UV Protection – Verify that the lenses filter 100% of UVA/UVB/UVC rays to protect your eyes from solar damage. Authentic Oakleys always provide full UV protection.
- Polarized Options – Polarized lenses cut through glare from reflective surfaces like water or glass. This improves visual clarity in bright, highly-reflective surroundings.
- Impact Resistance – Opt for Oakley’s impact-resistant Plutonite lenses if you play positions with more ball contact risk like pitcher or infielder.
- Secure Fit – Features like Unobtainium earsocks and nosepads prevent slipping during activity and impact.
- Warranty Coverage – Oakley eyewear is backed by a one-year limited warranty in case of manufacturer defects.
Where to Buy Cheap Oakleys Online
There are a few reputable places online to buy discounted Oakley sunglasses:
- Oakley Official Site – Oakley offers sales on certain models and discounted past season eyewear. Sign up for emails to get access to promos.
- Amazon – Shop Oakley listings sorted by price-low-to-high to find the best deals on various styles. Verify it ships from and is sold by Amazon.
- eBay – Search for new and used Oakleys, filtering for models under $100. Vet seller ratings and reviews carefully.
- Overstock – Overstock carries Oakleys at up to 50% off. Sort by price to find the lowest cost options.
- Discount Sites – Check sites like 6pm and Steep & Cheap that offer name brands at reduced prices due to overstock or end-of-season.
FAQ About Cheap Oakleys for Baseball
Are cheap Oakleys still good quality?
While cheaper than regular retail pricing, discount Oakleys are still held to the brand’s quality standards. They undergo the same lens treatments and durability testing. Authentic discounted Oakleys still provide top performance and protection.
Where are the best places to shop Oakley sales?
The Oakley site itself, Amazon, and discount gear sites like 6pm have the best selections of legit Oakleys at discounted costs. Always verify you’re buying from an authorized Oakley seller when shopping sales.
How can I spot fake Oakleys?
Inspect for red flags like flimsy construction, non-Plutonite lenses, missing logos on arms and lenses, or improper sizing. Fake Oakleys won’t offer UV protection either. Only buy from reputable sellers.
Should I buy used Oakleys for baseball?
Used Oakleys are riskier – older lenses lose effectiveness over time and you can’t verify durability or proper care. For baseball, opt for discounted new over used models unless from a trusted source.
What are Oakley Prizm lenses good for?
Oakley Prizm lenses enhance color, contrast, and detail to improve performance. This allows you to see the ball better when batting and fielding. Prizm tech fine-tunes vision for specific environments like baseball fields.
Protect Your Eyes and Your Wallet
Quality eyewear is a vital piece of baseball gear, but it can come at a price. With this guide to the top cheap Oakley baseball sunglasses, you can protect your eyes without breaking the bank. Models like the Oakley Holbrook, Radar EV Path, and Half Jacket 2.0 XL offer the performance, comfort, and protection needed at an affordable cost when bought online. Don’t compromise on vision and safety – pick up budget-friendly Oakleys so you can play your best on the field.
