Sunglasses at the poker table remain one of the most controversial topics in the poker world. While some players support wearing them, pros like Daniel Negreanu are strongly against the dark sunglasses, arguing that they go against the spirit of the game. But why do some players wear sunglasses, while others don’t? Let’s dive into the reasoning behind this poker tradition and the psychology involved.
Hiding Eye Movements & Enhancing Focus
The eyes are often called the “windows to the soul,” and in poker, they can give away valuable information. A quick glance at your chips, avoiding an opponent’s stare, or even an involuntary twitch can all reveal something about your hand.
For example, if you make a big bluff and an opponent is studying you, the only way they can catch your bluff is through your body language or eye movements. You could sit completely still for 30 minutes, but your eyes might still betray your emotions. Wearing sunglasses helps mask these subtle cues, preventing opponents from picking up reads on you.
Newer players often struggle to control their expressions, especially when they have strong hands. If you’re dealt pocket Aces, your excitement might be visible in your eyes, making it easier for opponents to detect a strong hand. Sunglasses help conceal this excitement, as well as any pupil dilation, which can indicate emotional responses.
Additionally, sunglasses provide a psychological edge, allowing players to observe their opponents without being noticed. They also help minimize distractions, as players can fix their gaze in one direction while discreetly watching the action.
Intimidating Opponents
For new players, wearing sunglasses can add an air of mystery and intimidation. Opponents might find it harder to read you, making you seem more unpredictable. However, maintaining this aura depends on your actual poker skills—if your play doesn’t back it up, the mystique can quickly fade.
A great example of this was seen at the 2024 WSOP Final Table, where amateur Jordan Griff made a deep run. Despite being relatively inexperienced, he appeared intimidating at the table, largely due to his sunglasses and composed demeanor. Many fans couldn’t even tell he was a recreational player. His intimidating presence helped him battle against the best, and he ultimately finished as the runner-up in a controversial heads-up battle against Jonathan Tamayo.
Strategy for Some and Habit for Others
For some players, wearing sunglasses is purely strategic, while for others, it’s simply a habit or even a superstition. Chris Moneymaker famously wore sunglasses during his 2003 WSOP Main Event victory, helping to popularize the trend. Many players believed that wearing sunglasses at the table could help them win, and the tradition continued. Since Moneymaker’s win, seven out of the next 21 WSOP Main Event champions have worn sunglasses, including 2022 champion Espen Jorstad.
At the 2024 WSOP Main Event, Jordan Griff also wore sunglasses but fell just short, finishing as the runner-up.
Advantage at Televised Poker Tables
In modern poker, especially at televised tables, players must deal with bright lights, cameras, and the pressure of live streaming. The intensity of these conditions can make players nervous, as every move is broadcast to a global audience. One bad play can lead to harsh criticism from viewers.
Espen Jorstad mentioned in an interview that wearing sunglasses during the 2022 WSOP Main Event Final Table helped him maintain his composure and confidence despite the pressure.
While many top players still dominate the game without sunglasses, they do offer significant advantages—especially for introverts or players prone to nervousness. Wearing them can help hide anxiety and give a player a more composed and intimidating image at the table.
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