Picking the right pair of sunglasses is not just about style. It’s also about buying a product that will protect your eyes and serve the right function. Consider the following tips the next time you’re out looking a new pair of sunglasses.
Protection
Over-exposure to UV rays can cause serious eye problems, so look for pairs that block at least 99% of UVB and at the very least 95% of UVA rays. Sunglasses should have labels that provide this information. If they don’t, don’t buy them.
Color
Picking the right color sunglasses is a little more complex than matching your outfit. Different color lenses change your eyes’ ability to distinguish shapes and color. Here’s a quick outline of what each lens color does.
Gray: Reduce light intensity. Don’t affect contrast and they do not distort colors.
Brown: Block some blue light, partially enhancing contrast. Great for snow sports and hunting during bright days in the open.
Amber or Yellow: Block most or all blue light to enhance contrast considerably. Good for hunters, who need contrast to see shapes of targets against the sky or light background. However, amber or yellow shades lessen color recognition. Not good for activities, like driving, that require distinguishing between colors.
Red/Orange: Good for enhancing contrast on overcast days.
Violet: Good for seeing clay targets on green backgrounds.
Blue or Green: Good for playing tennis, as they enhance contrast with yellow objects.
Lens Material
NXT polyurethane lenses are the most impact-resistant and flexible lenses. They’re light and very clear. However, they are expensive. Glass lenses are heavier and as expensive, but will “spider” if even slightly cracked. Polycarbonate is not very scratch-resistant and is less clear, but a lot cheaper. Acrylic is the most affordable but the least quality type of lens.
Style
There are all kinds of sunglasses to choose from. Picking one depends wholly on your taste. Here are some of the most well known types.
Mirrorshades: Used a lot by police. Highly polished, reflective surface. Usually come in aviator shape.
Aviators: Teardrop-shape lenses, wire rimed frame. Popular with pilots, cops and military. Best with oval shaped face.
Wayfarers: Fifties and Sixties style sunglasses, as worn by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Teashades: Small, round lenses, made popular by John Lennon. Not to good at keep out light.
Wraparounds: Sleek and tight fitting sports glasses.
Oversized: Very popular nowadays, for that Hollywood glamour look.