Guide to Golf Cart Windshields: Clear vs. Tinted

Posted by The Extreme Kartz Team on 1st Jul 2024

Guide to Golf Cart Windshields: Clear vs. Tinted

Golf cart windshields are essential for any golf cart. They protect you from wind, flying debris, and inclement weather. Without one, you’re downgrading your comfort and safety. 

The options for choosing the right windshield for your golf cart can be overwhelming. Should you go for a clear windshield or a tinted one? This guide will walk you through the differences, benefits, and considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Introduction

When customizing your golf cart, selecting the right windshield is crucial. It not only impacts your visibility but also affects the overall look and experience of your ride. At Extreme Kartz, we understand the importance of making the right choice. Our professional team is here to provide you with all the information you need about golf cart windshields, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your golf cart.

Clear Golf Cart Windshields 

Benefits of Clear Windshields

Clear golf cart windshields are the most popular choice. They offer unobstructed visibility, which is especially important when driving on a golf course or in areas with variable terrain. Clear windshields allow you to see the course and surroundings without distortion, ensuring a safer ride.

Our professional team at Extreme Kartz recommends clear windshields if you prioritize maximum visibility. Clear windshields blend seamlessly with any golf cart color or design, maintaining the cart’s original aesthetic appeal. 

They are ideal if you’re looking for a straightforward and functional windshield that gets the job done without altering the look of your cart.

Considerations for Clear Windshields

Clear windshields have drawbacks. One of the main concerns is glare. In bright sunlight, clear windshields can reflect a significant amount of light, which might be distracting or uncomfortable. Additionally, they offer no protection from harmful UV rays. This could be a consideration if you often drive your golf cart in sunny conditions.

Our experts advise considering where and when you use your golf cart the most. If glare and UV protection are not major concerns, a clear windshield can be a great choice.

Note that just because a windshield is clear, does not make it street-legal or DOT-approved. You will need one with that specific AS4 certification. See our recommendations below in this article.

Tinted Golf Cart Windshields

Benefits of Tinted Windshields

Tinted golf cart windshields offer several advantages, making them an attractive option for many owners. The primary benefit is they reduce glare from the sun

This can significantly enhance your comfort and safety, especially when driving in bright conditions. Tinted windshields also protect against UV rays, which can help protect your skin and keep the interior of your golf cart cooler.

Our professional team at Extreme Kartz suggests tinted windshields for those who frequently use their carts in bright, sunny environments. Tinted windshields also look better, giving your golf cart a stylish, more modern look.

Considerations for Tinted Windshields

Despite the benefits, there are some considerations when choosing a tinted windshield. While they reduce glare, tinted windshields can also slightly reduce visibility in low-light conditions, like early mornings or late evenings. Even cloudy and overcast days can make driving a golf cart with a tinted windshield quite annoying.

Evaluate your typical usage patterns. A tinted windshield is an excellent choice if you primarily use your golf cart during daylight hours on sunny days. However, if you need maximum visibility at all times and weather conditions, choose a clear windshield or upgrade your driving lights.

Driving with Sunglasses

Another consideration: do you often wear sunglasses while driving your golf cart? Well, you probably won’t enjoy wearing sunglasses while driving with a tinted windshield! Keep this in mind. 

Tinted Windshield Regulations

Please note that tinted windshields are usually not street legal. Regulations against tinted windshields exist in most US jurisdictions, with a few exceptions. 

Best Materials for Golf Cart Windshields

The windshield material of your golf cart is an important consideration. Most good windshields are durable acrylic, offering excellent clarity and impact resistance.

Our selection of Yamaha windshields features a urethane flex-hinge with UV protection to prevent yellowing and cracking over time. A polycarbonate blend is available for those requiring additional strength and shatter resistance.

It is essential to keep in mind the weather conditions in your area and shop according to those.

Our Top Clear Windshield: DOT Approved / AS4 Windshield with Magnetic-Catch, Clear, Yamaha Drive 2007-2016 by DoubleTake

The DOT Approved / AS4 Windshield with Magnetic-Catch, Clear, for Yamaha Drive 2007-2016 by DoubleTake is a top choice for Yamaha golf cart owners looking to upgrade their vehicle’s functionality and aesthetics. It is currently offered at a 15% discount along with free shipping, making it an excellent value for money.

One critical feature of this windshield is its ease of installation. The magnetic catch mechanism simplifies the process, allowing for quick and secure attachment without additional tools or complicated procedures. This feature saves time and enhances the overall user experience by providing a hassle-free setup.

The transparent acrylic material used in this windshield ensures durability and provides excellent visibility, which is crucial for safety while driving. The AS4 DOT approval indicates that this product meets high safety standards, making it a reliable choice for consumers looking for quality and compliance with road safety regulations.

Final Verdict

Overall, the DOT-approved / AS4 Windshield with Magnetic Catch is a practical and stylish addition to any Yamaha Drive golf cart. Its competitive pricing, ease of installation, and robust safety features make it a worthwhile investment in enhancing your golf cart’s functionality and appearance.

Our Top Tinted Windshield: Yamaha DRIVE2 for Factory Body by DoubleTake

The Tinted Windshield for Yamaha DRIVE2 by DoubleTake is a premium accessory that enhances the comfort and style of your golf cart. The windshield is currently offered at a 20% discount and includes free shipping, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

Magnetic hold points simplify the installation of this windshield. These hold points securely lock the windshield in open and closed positions without additional fixtures.

feature facilitates a quick setup and contributes to the golf cart’s sleek look by eliminating unsightly rubber bumpers.

The tinted acrylic plastic used in this windshield provides sufficient shade from the sun, reducing glare and making it easier to drive in bright conditions. This mainly benefits users who frequently use their golf carts in sunny climates.

FAQ

Q: What are the primary benefits of clear golf cart windshields?

Clear windshields offer unobstructed visibility, which is crucial on golf courses and varying terrains. They maintain the original aesthetic of your golf cart, blending seamlessly with any design or color.

Q: Are there any drawbacks to using clear windshields?

Yes, clear windshields can reflect a significant amount of light, causing glare. They also do not provide protection from harmful UV rays, which can be an issue in sunny conditions.

Q: Why might someone choose a tinted golf cart windshield?

Tinted windshields reduce glare from the sun, enhancing comfort and safety. They also protect against UV rays, helping keep the interior cooler and providing skin protection.

Q: What are the potential downsides of tinted windshields?

Tinted windshields can reduce visibility in low-light conditions, such as early mornings, late evenings, or overcast days. This could be problematic if you frequently drive in these conditions.

Q: How does wearing sunglasses impact the use of tinted windshields?

If you wear sunglasses while driving, a tinted windshield might reduce visibility further. This combination can make driving less enjoyable and potentially more hazardous.

Why Customers Buy from Extreme Kartz

  • #1 in customer service in the golf cart industry. Call us if you want a premium personal shopping experience!
  • We offer a Price Match Guarantee. If you see lower prices elsewhere, we’ll match them!
  • We have 10,000+ parts from all the best brands. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, call us today!

Conclusion

Choosing the right golf cart windshield is essential for comfort and safety. Clear windshields offer maximum visibility and blend seamlessly with any cart design. Tinted windshields reduce glare and provide UV protection, making them ideal for sunny environments. The ultimate decision is on you!

Check out our online store for today’s perfect windshield for your Yamaha golf cart. Whether navigating the golf course or cruising your community, we have the golf cart parts and accessories to make your ride feel brand new.