If you need to protect your eyes when you’re outdoors you may be in the market for a pair of sunglasses. There are literally thousands of different types of sunglasses available and you need to find the right pair for your individual needs. But when confronted with so many options you can become spoiled for choice and it’s hard to know where to start.
Begin by understanding just what’s available:
Frame Type: The first place to start is with the frame. Frames are made of metal, plastic (polycarbonate or optyl), nylon, carbon, or a combination. Aviator sunglasses are a popular metal frame style that other frames are based on. Grilamid frames are made to withstand hazards that might occur in the outdoors while hiking, running, or even climbing. Hydrated nylon models will return to their original shape even if they are stepped on. Hydrophilic glasses are made to stick to the face even in the wettest of conditions, while wrap around glasses block out the sun entirely and allow full peripheral vision. ‘Fit over’ sunglasses fit over your prescription lenses and are a cheaper alternative than having prescription sunglass lenses made.
Types of Lenses: Whether you prefer glass, plastic, or stronger impact resistant polycarbonate lenses, the type of lens you choose depends on the type of activity you do. Lenses made of harder plastic resins tend to be used for sport because they are either shatter resistant or shatter proof. Many quality models are also scratch resistant, which helps lenses last longer, but has no effect on overall eye protection. Polarized lenses are great for water sports or fishing, or regular use. Sunglasses should be both ultraviolet light type A (UVA) and type B (UVB) resistant.
Coating: Blue-light filtering, flash coating, anti-reflective lenses (AR), mirror coating (best for high altitudes, water, wind, or snow), and even silver or gold coatings are available. Each type has a specific function, so it’s best to read the manufacturer’s claims. Regular gradient-coated lenses are shaded from top to bottom, while double-gradient models are shaded at both ends. Photochromic coatings will lighten and darken dependent upon how much environmental light is present.
Shade Coloring: Some amber-tinted lenses reduce glare, while brown lenses help lessen the strain on your eyes in the outdoors. Newer, gray-neutral lenses also help reduce glare, but don’t distort colors. Green is often referred to as the best color for most general-purpose uses, while rose-colored glasses are great for regular daylight use. Yellow, on the other hand, is used for low-light conditions.
Bridge: One part of sunglasses that many don’t consider is the bridge, which connects the two eyepieces over the upper nose. This part should not be too tight, but fit snuggly, without applying pressure on either side. The weight of the glasses should not rest here.
Hinges: The hinges are what connect the eyepieces to the earpiece side frames that rest or fit over the upper ears. These allow the frames to fold. These should fit tightly together and are most generally made of steel with springs inside to help the glasses fit closely to your face. Some modern hinges are made of nylon with a metal piece that connects it.
Kid’s Sunglasses: Kid’s sunglasses are made to match the complexity and durability of adult sunglasses. Sunglasses designed for children should be UVA and UVB resistant and are most often made of polycarbonate.
Sport Specific Models: The popularity of sport-specific sunglasses has been on the rise for over a decade. Professional athletes who don their own designer brand have allowed sunglasses sales to skyrocket. Sunglasses designed for sport are both fashionable and useful. Many are designed for action sports, such as those designed for use on motorcycles which help eliminate dust, wind, and debris from entering the frame. Sport sunglasses are lightweight, slip resistant, impact resistant, have anti-fog lenses and offer UVA and UVB protection.
Tip: Always try sunglasses on. Some frames will fit better than others, and it doesn’t matter how well the glasses would protect your eyes if they are too uncomfortable to wear.