Sunglasses aren’t just a summer accessory — they’re essential protection for your eyes. But how often do you really think about what makes a good pair?
Most of us pick sunglasses based on how they look. And yes, style matters. But the right sunglasses should do three things equally well: protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, feel comfortable to wear, and suit your face and lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose sunglasses that do it all — with style, comfort and long-term eye health in mind. We’ll also explore what the science says about UV protection and why it matters more than you might think.
Why UV protection should be your first priority
Let’s start with the most important function of sunglasses: shielding your eyes from UV (ultraviolet) radiation.
According to the World Health Organisation, too much UV exposure can lead to:
- 👉 Cataracts – a leading cause of blindness
- 👉 Photokeratitis – like sunburn, but for your eyes
- 👉 Macular degeneration – age-related damage to central vision
- 👉 Pterygium – growths on the surface of the eye
The damage is cumulative and often irreversible.
“Wearing UV-protective sunglasses is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent long-term damage to the eyes.” – British Journal of Ophthalmology
And it’s not just sunny days that matter — UV rays penetrate through clouds. Even on overcast or wintry days, your eyes are still at risk, especially around reflective surfaces like water, sand or snow.
What to look for:
- 👉 Lenses labelled UV400 or 100% UV protection
- 👉 Glasses that block both UVA and UVB rays
- 👉 Wraparound or oversized frames for more coverage
✅ Don’t be fooled by dark lenses — they don’t always mean better UV protection. It’s the lens material and coating that count.
You can read more about UV protection and why it matters here.
Comfort isn’t optional
Even the most protective pair is useless if you don’t enjoy wearing them. Ill-fitting sunglasses can pinch, slide down your nose, or cause headaches from pressure.
Signs your sunglasses fit well:
- 👉 They rest gently on your nose and ears without digging in
- 👉 They don’t slide down when you look down or move
- 👉 They don’t leave marks after short wear
- 👉 The frame feels balanced, not too heavy
Common causes of discomfort:
- 👉 Frames that are too narrow or too wide
- 👉 Tight hinges that press into your temples
- 👉 Lenses that cause visual distortion or glare
✅ If you wear prescription glasses, ask your optician about prescription sunglasses or photochromic lenses that adapt to light.
Choosing the right shape and style for your face
Yes, UV and comfort matter most — but let’s not forget about looking good.
Everyone’s face is different, and certain frame shapes tend to flatter specific features. Here’s a simple breakdown:
If you have a round face:
Go for angular styles like square or rectangular frames. They help balance soft curves.
If you have a square face:
Choose round or oval frames to soften strong jawlines.
If you have a heart-shaped face:
Try bottom-heavy or rounded frames to balance a wider forehead.
If you have an oval face:
Lucky you—almost any style works! Just keep proportions in mind.
✅ A general rule of thumb: opposites attract. Round face? Go angular. Angular face? Go curved.
Bonus tip: Consider your lifestyle
- 👉 Outdoor sport or water activities? Go for wraparound styles with polarised lenses.
- 👉 Drive often? Look for anti-glare coatings and lens tints suited to road use.
- 👉 Love fashion? Choose statement styles that match your personality but still meet the UV safety standard.
What the lens tint and material actually do
Sunglasses lenses aren’t all made equal. Lens colour and material affect both your comfort and how you see the world.
Common tints and their benefits:
- 👉 Grey: True colour perception, ideal for general use
- 👉 Brown/Amber: Enhances contrast, good for driving and sports
- 👉 Yellow: Improves depth perception in low light, good for overcast days
- 👉 Green: Reduces glare while offering good colour balance
Materials to consider:
- 👉 Polycarbonate: Lightweight, impact-resistant, great for active use
- 👉 CR-39 plastic: Lightweight with good optical clarity
- 👉 Glass: Scratch-resistant but heavier and more fragile
✅ Always prioritise optical clarity and comfort over trendy tints. And remember, the colour of the lens doesn’t affect UV protection.
Should you choose polarised lenses?
Polarised lenses reduce reflected glare from flat surfaces like water, roads, or snow. This makes them perfect for:
- 👉 Driving
- 👉 Boating
- 👉 Fishing
- 👉 Snow sports
But they’re not for everyone. They can make it hard to read screens or LCD displays, and they’re not always necessary for daily use.
So when are they worth it?
If you’re outdoors a lot, or struggle with glare headaches, polarised lenses can be a game-changer.
✅ Polarisation is different from UV protection. Make sure any polarised pair you buy also blocks UV.
Should kids wear sunglasses too?
Absolutely. Children’s eyes are even more sensitive to UV damage than adults. Because their lenses are clearer, more UV light reaches the retina, putting them at greater risk.
Choose child-friendly sunglasses that:
- 👉 Are clearly marked with UV400 protection
- 👉 Fit snugly and comfortably
- 👉 Are impact-resistant and hard to break
✅ Encourage kids to wear hats and sunglasses together when out in the sun.
Final thoughts: Choose smarter, not just stylish
Sunglasses are more than a summer statement — they’re one of the most effective tools you have to protect your vision.
The perfect pair is the one you’ll actually wear: one that fits well, flatters your face, and blocks the harmful rays you can’t see.
So next time you’re shopping for shades, don’t just look in the mirror. Check the label. Think about your lifestyle. And remember, your eyes deserve more than just a fashion fix — they deserve real, lasting protection.
✅ Because seeing clearly — and comfortably — never goes out of style.
Want some help choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses?
Come in and see us, we’re always here to guide you on the best options for your eyes, your lifestyle, and your health.
