Types of Sunglasses


When choosing sunglasses to buy, there are a variety of factors, which can be considered:

Frame Material

There are many different types of materials for sunglasses. Metal frames are generally lighter than plastic frames, which are usually made from nylon or Zyl.  Nylon in particular is very flexible and doesn’t snap very easily.  Metal hinges are best because they are more durable than plastic hinges.  Styles with built in airflow designs can be suitable for certain conditions and for use when partaking in certain sports. 

Frame Size

High-end sunglasses come in various sizes.  Ensure that glasses fit well behind the ears and on the bridge of the nose.  Try to try glasses on for a few minutes, to ensure that they are the right size and fit for you.  If you can try them on outside, you can check how well you can see through them in the shadow, this can help ensure that the lens is not too dark for you.  You can also test glare, by looking at reflection.

UV Protection

The most important factor when choosing sunglasses should be their UV protection.  Large lenses and wraparound frames will prevent UV rays from entering through the sides of the sunglasses.  Wraparound lenses are also good for protection from dust, wind, rain and snow and are therefore ideal for cyclists and skiers.

Lens Colour

The lens of sunglasses should be dark enough for comfort but not excessively dark as this may impair vision.  If you are exposed to a lot of blue light from snow or water, the lens should specifically block this.  Often, such lenses are medium to dark and come in either, grey, slightly brown or green colours.  To find out more about lens colours, click here.

Lens Material

Generally, sunglasses have plastic lenses.  Plastic lenses are stronger than glass lenses and are less prone to shatter.  Scratch resistant plastic lenses can be bought, which usually have a coating.  Other types include glass lenses, which are inherently highly scratch-resistant but they can be heavy, as well as likely to shatter.  Sports glasses often have polycarbonate lenses, which are stronger than plastic and shatterproof. 

Windless Designs

Some sunglasses can protect eyes from the elements such as wind, rain and snow and also from dust and dirt.  These types of sunglasses will ventilate your eyes by allowing air to flow through but will also prevent lenses from fogging up and eyes being irritated by excess wind. 

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