A good pair of sunglasses is harder to come by than you’d think: not only do they have to fit well and look stylish, but they need to serve an actual function, too, in the form of UV light protection and all other outdoor elements. Brian Boxer Wachler, MD, ophthalmologist and medical reviewer at All About Vision, notes that ultraviolet light from the sun can cause tremendous damage to the eyes, including the eyelids, over the years. In addition to skin cancer, UV light can cause growths or spots on the whites of the eyes and increase the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. A good pair of sunglasses with UV protection can help the overall health of your eyes so you can avoid the negative effects of UV rays. Since sunglasses have to check off so many boxes—like fit, quality, appearance, and protection—and fall within your preferred budget, finding a pair that can blend style, functionality, and affordability is like finding a unicorn. To make it easier, we tested 40 pairs of sunglasses on our editors for two weeks, not only choosing our favorites but also considering who they would work best for and why. We also talked to experts to decode popular features (like polarization) and get tips for choosing the right pair for you. Finally, a doctor from our Medical Expert Board reviewed this article for accuracy. Our Top Picks Best Men’s Overall: Best Women’s Overall: Best Men’s Budget: Best Women's Budget: Best Polarized: Best Prescription: Warby Parker Barkley Sunglasses at Warbyparker.com (See Price) Best for Running: Best for Driving: Randolph USA Aviator Matte Chrome Sunglasses at Amazon ($259) Best UV Protection: In This Article How to Know if Your Sunglasses Fit Properly How to Check Sunglasses for UV Protection Our Picks We Also Tested How We Tested Sunglasses What to Look for in Sunglasses for UV Protection Our Experts FAQ Why Trust Verywell Health Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Performance 5/5 Quality 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Value 4.7/5 Pros Unique style and color Can be unisex Polarized lenses Cons A little pricey Don’t unfold easily We loved the Raen Aren Sunglasses for men’s sunglasses that are secure enough to stay in place but comfortable enough to wear all day long. With a noticeable but sophisticated style and a mid-range price for high-quality sunglasses, the Aren was an easy pick for the best overall sunglasses in our testing. We wore them hiking, on vacation, and while biking to work, and they never once slipped out of place or pinched above the nose or ears, no matter how long we wore them. They’re clearly constructed well, too—we noticed that the hinges were strong and durable. While the greenish-gray polarized lenses give them extra fashion points, they also protect our eyes from the sun outdoors. We recommend them to anyone who wants high-performing sunglasses that also look stylish. They're a bit pricier than other picks and don't unfold easily. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Performance 5/5 Quality 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Comfortable and secure Stylish cat-eye shape Warm polarized lenses that reduce glare We were surprised how often we reached for the Indy Nolita sunglasses in our testing—over and over, this was the pair we grabbed when heading out for a walk or drive. They were some of the most comfortable sunglasses we’ve ever worn, with wide arms that never pinched, a snug fit that never slid out of place, and warm-tinted lenses that are not only polarized but did a great job blocking sunlight and reducing glare.They have a feminine, slight cat-eye shape and were so stylish we were surprised at the price point, especially considering they're stylish and durable. These comfortable and on-trend sunglasses are a true steal. They're only available in one size and have limited frame colors. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Performance 5/5 Quality 4.5/5 Appearance 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Inexpensive Lightweight Simple, neutral appearance Cons Logo printed on the lens May not last a long time We won’t judge you if you’re looking for a budget-friendly pair of sunglasses, especially if you’re wearing the Knockaround Premiums Sport sunglasses. This pair surprised us in testing with its durability and overall value. We wore these when driving and going on long walks and had no issues with slipping, pinching, or general fit. They were lightweight but secure, and while they don’t necessarily scream “trendy” with their basic black frames and black lenses, they’re a good choice for anyone who doesn't want to draw attention to themselves with their eyewear. With their neutral style, polarized lenses, and low price point, we recommend them to anyone looking for a workhorse pair of sunglasses they can stock up on. The logo is printed on the lenses, which some may not stylistically prefer. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Performance 4.5/5 Quality 4.5/5 Appearance 4.5/5 Value 4.8/5 Pros Trendy, oversized appearance Slim and lightweight Stayed in place Cons Not as durable as other pairs May need some adjusting to fit correctly If you’re looking for sunglasses that will help you stand out in a crowd, we thought the I-SEA All Aboard Sunglasses were one of the more flashy options we tested. Their low cost makes them a great budget pick for those times when you need a truly stylish pair of lenses to go with an outfit. We liked that these sunglasses were comfortable and mostly stayed in place. These glasses had a distinct style that we found retro and funky, so if that’s the look you’re going for, this pair is a budget-friendly way to get it. One of our editors thought they were a little big for their face and had to adjust the arms. We also noticed they were flimsier than some of the other pairs we tested and that some of the finishings (like the pearlized lenses and fake gold nose bridge) were clearly made of lower-quality materials, making the glasses look cheap overall. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Performance 5/5 Quality 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Well-constructed frame Classic but unique design Luxury look and feel Cons Somewhat narrow-fitting With a unique square shape that could suit men’s or women’s faces, the Persol PO3292S sunglasses are an investment that might be totally worth it. In testing, we found these sunglasses perform well—reducing glare, staying in place, and going everywhere with us easily—and have a luxurious, high-quality look and feel everyone could fall in love with. Though there were many things about these sunglasses we loved, their overall design truly stood out: the functional, polarized lenses are paired with timeless acetate frames in multiple colors and stylish silver hinges for a look that’s clearly luxury but not ostentatious. While pricey, these sunglasses could last you a lifetime (assuming you can keep them all to yourself, which is debatable, given how good they look on anyone). They had a more narrow fit that may not be suitable for wider faces. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 4.5/5 Performance 4.3/5 Quality 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Value 4.3/5 Pros Trendy, edgy appearance Polarized lenses in different colors/tones Gradient tinting for maximum visibility Cons Heavy with long hours of wear Some lens colors are almost too dark The trendy frame shape, gradient, and polarized lenses of the Féroce Heather sunglasses make this pair the perfect blend of style and function. Although these lenses are darker at the top than the bottom, they still block a ton of light and reduce glare. We also thought these were a pretty weighty pair of glasses. They were clearly durable and made a statement on our faces. The detailing really stood out—they looked like much more expensive sunglasses and gave us edgy vibes. When you combine that with the fact that you can snag these sunglasses in a bunch of different colored frames and matching lenses, you’re getting a serious dose of style with your eye protection here. Sometimes, we thought they were maybe even a bit too dark, but the light tinting at the bottom helped keep your vision clear. One of our editors thought they felt heavy after a few hours of wear. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Performance 4.7/5 Quality 4.5/5 Appearance 4.7/5 Value 5/5 Pros Eco-friendly Clean, timeless unisex design Comfortable fit Cons Less sturdy than other brands Arms are a little tricky to manipulate People who wear prescription eyeglasses need sun protection, too, and we loved the way the Warby Parker Barkley glasses fused style, comfort, and function. With a lightweight, durable construction and roomy but secure fit, we forgot we were even wearing these sunglasses; we also had no trouble adjusting them as needed. The classic design makes them unisex and wearable in nearly any environment. We were impressed at the eco-friendliness of these glasses since the frames are made from biodegradable acetate. These are a great middle-of-the-road option for prescription sunglasses. We had some overall concerns about the longevity of these sunglasses, as they sometimes felt a bit cheap. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Performance 5/5 Quality 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Value 4/5 Pros Wide, wraparound lenses Glare reduction Comfortable nose pads Cons Masculine-looking You’re paying partly for the Oakley name brand Oakley sunglasses are synonymous with outdoor activities, and the Oakley RadarLock Path didn’t disappoint us on that front: their wraparound design blocked out the wind while we were biking and walking in sun, wind, and rain, plus they did a great job of reducing glare while maintaining clear visibility. Dr. Wachler noted that the wraparound frame here is a selling point, providing extra protection against the elements that outdoor athletes should look for in sunglasses. We also had zero complaints about their durability or functionality—they felt sturdy and flexible and stayed in place throughout all our movements—and thought everything from the soft, grippy nose pads to the wide iridescent lenses made these an endlessly comfortable and functional pair of sunglasses for outdoor activity. They're a very masculine-looking pair, which may not be for everyone. Also, they're costly, and at times, it felt like it was due to the name brand itself versus the glasses. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 4.3/5 Performance 5/5 Quality 5/5 Appearance 4.5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Military grade lenses Bayonet arms for easy on and off Glare reduction and clear images Cons Need some adjustment for maximum comfort Expensive If you spend a lot of time driving, you need a pair of sunglasses that reduces glare but maintains a crisp, clear image for maximum visibility—and the Randolph USA Aviator Matte Chrome did exactly that in our testing, making them our best for driving pick. In both the green and blue tints we tested, these polarized lenses preserved the color of our environment well while still managing to block sunlight, which is optimal for safe driving. These sunglasses are even appropriate for pilots, and military-grade materials are used for the lenses. In addition, they were comfortable and extremely durable, with the classic aviator appearance. The metal frame was lightweight but sturdy and could be adjusted without feeling flimsy. We also appreciated the bayonet-style arms, which don’t curve behind the ears but maintain a straight line for easy placement and removal. They are pretty expensive, so they might be best reserved for people who spend a lot of their day driving versus a more casual user. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 4.5/5 Performance 4.3/5 Quality 5/5 Appearance 4.5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Super dark lenses Trendy, angular design Cons Only for people with low bridges The Covry Merak sunglasses feature super dark lenses with superior light blocking. They are a fashion-forward way to get 100% UV protection. Our testers found they did an excellent job blocking sunlight and glare while driving and walking outside. They liked the frames' translucent plastic, clean design, and angular style. These would be a worthwhile pair for people with low bridges that blend style, affordability, and function. These are designed for people with low bridges, so ensure they fit your face correctly. Neither of the editors who wore these sunglasses had low bridges, so they had issues with the glasses fitting too tightly and awkwardly. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 4.5/5 Performance 5/5 Quality 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Armless for adjustable fit Durable throughout all types of activity Unisex Cons Lenses get dirty quickly Distinct style that’s not for everyone We wore the armless Ombraz Classics Polarized sunglasses while doing pretty much every major outdoor activity—hiking, backpacking, running, paddleboarding, swimming—and they didn’t disappoint us once, so we can’t think of a single pair of sunglasses we would recommend more highly than these for sports enthusiasts. That armless design (the glasses tighten with a durable cord around the back of your head) means they can be tightened as needed, depending on your activity level, and there’s one less breakable piece to worry about no matter how extreme your sports. In addition to flexibility, we loved the comfort and fit of these glasses; they didn’t cause any long-term fatigue with wear, and even though they felt mostly weightless when fitted correctly, they never slid out of place. They’re definitely different in appearance and style. Still, the polarized, UV-protecting lenses do a great job blocking sunlight and reducing glare in all types of weather, further cementing them as a top choice for anyone who spends their downtime being active outdoors. The lenses got dirty rather quickly, and the distinct style may not be for everyone. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 4.5/5 Performance 5/5 Quality 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Color-enhancing lenses Sturdy and not prone to damage Reduces glare and eye strain Cons Somewhat narrow-fitting Even though the Smith Caper Sunglasses with Chromapop aren’t specifically made for hiking, we wore them on the trail during testing, the river for kayaking and the road while driving! We found them to hold up extremely well to the elements, including sun, snow, and sweat. No matter what type of activity we were doing, these sunglasses stayed put and were comfortable on the nose and ears. Moreover, the Caper sunglasses were subjected to a fair amount of abuse in their travels and never showed any signs of damage (yes, you can throw them in your pack without a second thought). They reduced the glare from snow and cut down eye strain. Finally, the Chromapop feature of the lenses, which is designed to enhance natural colors, truly does work—our editor said the world looks more vivid and beautiful behind the lenses, which should make any hiking aficionado happy about hitting the trail with them on their face. They're somewhat narrow-fitting which won't be best for wider faces. Key Specs: Our Ratings Fit 4.5/5 Performance 5/5 Quality 4.5/5 Appearance 4.5/5 Value 4/5 Pros Fold down into palm-size Block sunlight well Maintain a stylish appearance Cons Expensive Annoying to unfold and lock in place If you’re an avid traveler, it’s nice to have sunglasses that can withstand being tossed in a carry-on, but it’s even better to have a pair that takes up less space than the average pair. We liked how neatly and compactly the Persol 714 Foldable sunglasses closed up, fitting into a tiny palm-sized case. They did a good job blocking out sunlight, and we were impressed by just how small they became when folded down for travel. They do what they’re designed to do, so if space-saving is important to you, these glasses hit the mark. In testing, we did think the Persol foldable was a slightly better idea in theory than in practice; they were a little large for us, and several hinges for folding also made unfolding them a bit tricky. After a while, we also noticed some pressure on our ears and nose. Technically, we’re not convinced they’re worth their nearly-$400 cost—it seems like you’re paying for the novelty of folding sunglasses more than anything else. Key Specs: We tested sunglasses during their normal outdoor activities for two weeks (at least seven times). After consulting experts, we utilized their advice to assess them. We did so based on the following criteria: What sunglasses do opticians recommend? No one type of sunglasses will work best for everyone; it’s a very individualized decision that should consider your personal style and face shape, intended use, and overall comfort. However, our experts strongly recommend sunglasses with UV protection, regardless of your lifestyle. What is the most protective sunglass lens? Sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB blocking properties are the most protection lenses you can buy. These are also sometimes sold as UV400 lenses. Fortunately, says Dr. Wacher, in the United States, it’s the law that sunglasses made here must have high UV protection—even an inexpensive gas station pair of sunglasses will have the same UV protection as an expensive department store brand. Sarah Bradley has been a freelance writer since 2017, tackling health commerce articles, product reviews, and shopping guides on everything from dry skin moisturizers and wart removers to menstrual cups and toothbrushes for braces. She has also worn prescription glasses since the fourth grade, so she knows how important it is to find a pair that looks great, keeps your eyes healthy, and fits so well you forget you’re even wearing them. How to Know if Your Sunglasses Fit Properly
How to Check Sunglasses for UV Protection
Best Men’s Overall
Raen Aren Polarized Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Acetate | Lens Width: 53 mm | Bridge Width: 18 mmBest Women’s Overall
Indy Nolita Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Acetate | Lens Width: 53 mm | Bridge Width: 21 mmBest Men’s Budget
Knockaround Premiums Sport Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Polycarbonate | Lens Width: 54 mm | Bridge Width: 19 mmBest Women's Budget
I-Sea All Aboard Polarized Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Metal | Lens Width: 55 mm | Bridge Width: 22 mmBest Unisex
Persol PO3292S Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Acetate | Lens Width: 50 mm | Bridge Width: 21 mmBest Polarized
Féroce Heather Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Acetate | Lens Width: 51 mm | Bridge Width: 18 mmBest Prescription
Warby Parker Barkley Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Acetate | Lens Width: 54 mm | Bridge Width: 17 mmBest for Running
Oakley RadarLock Path Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Nylon | Lens Width: 38 mm | Bridge Width: 131 mmBest for Driving
Randolph USA Aviator Matte Chrome Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Chrome | Lens Width: 55 mm | Bridge Width: 20 mmBest UV Protection
Covry Merak Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: No | Frame Material: Acetate | Lens Width: 51 mm | Bridge Width: 19 mmBest for Sports
Ombraz Classics Polarized Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Acetate | Lens Width: 53 mm | Bridge Width: 21 mmBest for Hiking
Smith Caper Sunglasses with Chromapop
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Polymer | Lens Width: 53 mm | Bridge Width: 19 mmBest for Travel
Persol PO0714 Folding Sunglasses
Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Lens Protection: 100% UVA/UVB | Polarized: Yes | Frame Material: Acetate | Lens Width: 54 mm | Bridge Width: 21 mm We Also Tested
How We Tested Sunglasses
What to Look for in Sunglasses for UV Protection
Our Experts
We also asked three eye experts to weigh in with advice on picking the best lens for your needs and what feature you absolutely can’t skip (spoiler alert: it’s UV protection!):Frequently Asked Questions
Why Trust Verywell Health
FAQs
What does the FDA say about using sunglasses to protect your eyes? ›
Protect Your Eyes With Sunglasses
Choose sunglasses with a UV400 rating or “100% UV protection” on the label. These sunglasses block more than 99% of UVA and UVB radiation and provide the most protection against UV rays. Do not mistake dark-tinted sunglasses as having UV protection.
UV400 lenses afford the eyes the highest level of protection against non-visible UVA and UVB light. Polarized lenses protect against visible light. They use a special film to filter reflected light and reduce glare from smooth surfaces like snow, water, or a hot road.
Why are Maui Jims so expensive? ›The top-notch quality and exceptional craftsmanship of Maui Jim sunglasses do come at a cost. The brand's drive for perfection results in a meticulous production process where every pair of sunglasses undergoes a thorough inspection.
Does LensCrafters still do glasses in one hour? ›Glasses in an Hour: Revolutionizing Eyewear Delivery
LensCrafters' commitment since 1983 remains unwavering: quality-crafted glasses in about an hour. Nearly 900 stores across the USA, Puerto Rico, and Canada possess in-store laboratories to deliver prompt, exceptional eyewear solutions without compromise.
Prolonged exposure to UV rays modifies lens proteins, leading to cataract formation and worsening eyesight. Over time, cataracts can make vision blurry, hazy, or less colorful. Cancers of the eyelid, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are linked to UV exposure.
How long does it take for UV light to damage eyes? ›Long-term consequences can result in serious vision threatening eye conditions like cataracts or macular degeneration. After exposure, symptoms appear within eight to 24 hours. Similar to burning your skin, you can experience a wide range of symptoms with an eye sunburn.
What type of sunglasses are healthiest? ›When purchasing sunglasses, look for those made by well-known optical manufacturers and labeled to block against UVA and UVB. The best protection comes from polycarbonate lenses, which are impact resistant (so the lenses will not shatter and damage the eyes) and block both UVA and UVB rays.
What color sunglasses are most protective? ›Gray, smoke, or brown-colored lenses in safety eyewear offer protection from the sun and glare to reduce eye strain and increase comfort.
Are polarized sunglasses better for your eyes? ›Polarized lenses will not protect your eyes from UV damage more than standard 100% UV lenses. However, they can give you clearer, more accurate vision and alleviate some eye strain. If you find yourself squinting a lot, even when you're wearing sunglasses, consider investing in polarized sunglasses.
Which is better, Oakley or Maui Jim? ›Maui Jim: Ideal for those who prioritize excellent color fidelity, glare reduction, and lightweight comfort. Perfect for everyday wear, driving, fishing, running, and water sports. Oakley: Suited for athletes seeking peak performance with enhanced contrast and a wider field of view.
Are Maui Jim better than Ray Bans? ›
Ray Bans and Maui Jims both bolster eye health because of their highly protective makeup. It is worth noting that Ray Bans, unlike Maui Jims, are not the best option for outdoor sports because of their inability to block harsh glares off water or snow. That said, they will certainly make a fashion statement.
Are Maui Jim or Costa better? ›We have selected Maui Jim and have decided in the Question of Maui Jim vs. Costa who is better?- that Maui Jim is the winner. Maui Jim has also been recognized in many periodicals and trade publications for its commitment to philanthropy.
Why is America's best so cheap? ›America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses is the low-price leader in a highly competitive eyewear market with more than 800 high-volume retail stores located across the U.S. Because we purchase a very high volume of eyeglass frames from manufacturers, we're able to negotiate unheard-of low prices from our vendors.
Do LensCrafters use Varilux lenses? ›Some brands excluded, including Duralens, Totallens, Varilux lenses, Maui Jim and Oakley Authentics lenses.
How much is an eye exam at America's Best? ›Free Eye Exam Near You
Your eye exam ($69 value) is always free at America's Best when you buy any two pairs of glasses, including designer frames. Your comprehensive eye exam is provided by a licensed optometrist.
Are sunglasses good for your eyes? Sunglasses are good for your health if the lenses block UV and the sunglasses are worn correctly (with the frame's nose bridge touching your face). Eyes filter out most, but not all, UV rays. Anything that limits UV exposure to the eye alleviates risk.
Do ophthalmologists recommend sunglasses? ›Ophthalmologists and optometrists now recommend wearing sunglasses and a brimmed hat whenever you're in the sun long enough to get a suntan or a sunburn, especially if you live at a high elevation or near the equator.
What is the medical condition where you have to wear sunglasses? ›Photophobia: It's Too Bright. People have medical and psychiatric conditions in which light causes discomfort in the head or eye.
What are the safety standards for sunglasses? ›Sunglasses must: Protect the wearer's eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Prevent sight inhibition from the sun. Allow enough light to penetrate the lense -- drivers must still see daylight and traffic lights.