Best UV Protection Sunglasses
9 min read • Posted on August 29 2024
The best UV-protected sunglasses are great accessories for your eyes. Proper eye protection is imperative whether you’re participating in a sport, playing around with friends, or enjoying the hot sun during a vacation. The very best sunglasses are UV-protected, meaning they protect your eyes from the harmful ultraviolet rays.
Never fear, as we’ve handpicked the best UV protection sunglasses for you. They come in various styles, so we've got you covered whether you’re headed to the beach, on a jog, or searching for a stylish pair of classic aviators. Read on to see our favorite sunglasses to stop the glare and sun damage in their tracks while still looking as fashionable as ever.
Why UVB Rays Protection is Crucial for Your Eyes
Your eyes are valuable. There are many things you can do to keep them that way. But, at the top of the list is your eyes’ need for protection from damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun.
Very few are aware, however, of the sometimes severe damage UV rays can do to the eyes. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, you are at risk for cataracts, the gradual clouding of the eye's lens. Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness worldwide.
Sun exposure can also speed up the degeneration of the macula, the retina's central portion that provides the sharpest, most colorful daytime vision and clarity for activities such as reading and driving. Excessive UV light exposure can also cause a painful sunburn of the eye’s surface called photokeratitis, similar to a sunburn on exposed skin.
Kraywoods' eco-friendly sunglasses that are equipped with UV400 lenses and that they are also polarized.
UV rays are electromagnetic radiation created by the sun. They are generally divided into UVA (with the longest wavelength), UVB (with an intermediate wavelength), and UVC (with the shortest wavelength).
UVA penetrates deep into the skin and eyes, whose damage will gradually accumulate and cause damage; UVB has an intermediate wavelength, and its primary functions are sunburn and direct damage to the skin surface and the eyes; and UVC is the highest in wavelength, and the ozone coating in the upper atmosphere soaks most of the UVC in the Earth’s atmosphere.
Although UV rays have been well publicized for causing skin damage, they are equally damaging to the eye. UVA rays reach the internal structures of the eye, first the cornea and then the lens and retina inside the eye.
What makes the risks of UV exposure so great? They have a detrimental effect on eyesight. In general, UV rays can cause instantaneous cataracts, photokeratitis (commonly known as ‘snow-blindness’ or ‘welder’s flash,’ which is an intense response to short-term and intense UV exposure, resulting in pain, redness, blurred vision, and sometimes temporary blindness), macular degeneration (early onset age-related blindness), impaired color vision and visual contrast sensitivity, refractive abnormalities, and corneal inflammation and infection.
Chronic UV exposure is even more problematic. Cataracts begin as cloudiness of the eye’s natural lens and are the top reason for blindness globally. UV vulnerability is a substantial hazard for forming this cloudy plaque, and it’s essential to shield your eyes at every age to prevent it.
How Sunglasses Provide Protection
Sunglasses are essential because they are the eyes-protected main line of defense against the flood of UV radiation from the sun that your eyes are exposed to daily. Sunglasses should intercept 99-100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. When sunglasses are manufactured, the lenses are coated to absorb UV radiation on the back of the lenses so that harmful rays are prevented from traveling to your eyes.
Consequently, the lens color and tint do not matter, whether explicit, green, blue, or any other color. If the sunglasses have a UV-blocking layer, your eyes will be protected from harmful radiation.
Long-term Benefits of UV Protection
The best reason to wear UV protection sunglasses is the long-term benefit: their consistent use dramatically decreases your chance of producing a combination of severe ocular diseases for years or decades.
These include the formation of cataracts or macular degeneration, medical conditions that can result in considerable vision loss and require medical intervention or surgery to help restore or salvage any existing viable vision.
Besides protecting your eyes against glare, UV protection sunglasses also keep your eyes healthy. Cumulative exposure to UV rays can lead to eye ailments that might not become apparent until later in life. Non-proliferating UV rays found in the sun’s rays can contribute to conditions such as Thomas and macular degeneration and damage the delicate tissue at the back of your eyes, the retina.
Top Features to Look for in UV Protection Sunglasses
There are essential features to look for when shopping for UV protection sunglasses that will make your eyewear more effective and comfortable. The most important feature is the UV protection rating, which ensures sunglasses block the sun's damaging rays.
Look for sunglasses with 99% to 100% UV protection or UV 400 sunglasses, which will block out all light rays that are 400 nanometres or less. These sunglasses will shield against UVA and UVB rays, ultimately protecting your eyes from the sun's rays.
The most crucial factor women should consider when choosing sunglasses is their UV protection rate. The UV protection rate of prescription sunglasses is calculated as the percentage of ultraviolet (UV) rays the glasses block. Long-term radiation from ultraviolet light is the leading cause of ocular damage.
Sunglasses with a 99% to 100% UV protection rate effectively filter out harmful short waves (UVA and UVB). UV 400 on the label of prescription glasses indicates pure protection from UV rays, which suggests that the lens blocks all light waves up to a wavelength of 400 nanometres, covering the entire spectrum of ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays.
Polycarbonate lenses are lighter and more complex, providing good impact resistance and excellent UV protection, and are ideal for outdoor use as eyewear (and are a must-have for exposed sports). CR-39 plastic lenses are clear and provide excellent UV protection, but at a lower cost, making them ideal for regular use. The coloring of the lenses is also essential not only in aesthetics. It provides an initial level of filtering and shading and can even increase the contrast you see.
Although slightly heavier, glass lenses are optically superior to polycarbonate lenses and have better scratch resistance. These may suit people who want high-quality sunglasses and vision but are willing to put up with the extra weight.
The style and fit of your sunglasses frame will also significantly impact comfort, coverage, and UV-blocking performance. An appropriately fitted pair of sunglasses will rest easily on your nose and ears without falling or sliding out of position and stay in place as you move and do your daily activities. Frames should have adjustable nose pads and flexible temple tips to make it as easy as possible to tailor different styles of frames to your face.
Wraparound frames provide extra UV protection as they curve around the sides of the face to provide additional barrier protection. The overall design provides increased protection since some UV light and glare might get in from the sides and the top or bottom.
Polarization vs. UV Protection
Polarisation is fantastic at reducing glare, while UV protection helps shield your eyes from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation. UV protection sunglasses block UVA and UVB rays, which would otherwise penetrate your eyes and expose your retina, cornea, and lens to harmful UV rays.
Often, sunglasses that offer 100 percent UV protection also offer polarized lenses, meaning you’re getting UV protection, visual clarity and comfort all rolled into one. When shopping polarized sunglasses with UV protection, look for labels that say 100 percent UV protection and polarisation for the best of both worlds.
Additional Features (Anti-scratch, Anti-reflective)
There are also anti-scratch and anti-reflective coatings for UV protection sunglasses, which can improve the durability and effectiveness of the eyewear. Anti-scratch coatings can keep the lenses clear. For instance, sunglasses with an anti-scratch feature could avoid quick scratching caused by daily use.
Scratches will not block the lenses, allowing people to see better through the polarized sunglasses. A feature like an anti-scratch coating is also necessary for those who continue to go out and do fieldwork.
Anti-reflective (AR) coatings fight back against reflections on the lenses, which can be caused by light bouncing back from the rear surface of the lenses. This glare on dark lenses can irritate and lead to eye strain. AR coatings reduce this irritating light reflection, especially if driving at night or watching a screen, which has become more prevalent.
Best UV Protection Sunglasses for Different Activities
Choosing the best UV-protection sunglasses for everyday wear involves a compromise that delivers a solid balance of comfort, style, and function. These sunglasses should offer robust UV protection but must be flexible enough to complement different outfits and occasions.
Lightweight frames and lenses that deliver 99 percent to 100 percent UVA and UVB protection are a good starting point. Polycarbonate lenses are lightweight and strong and make for comfortable all-day wear. Those who move in and out of an indoor and outdoor environment could consider photochromic lenses that darken according to sunlight.
Sports and Outdoor Adventures
It’s only necessary to add extra-protection UV-filtering sunglasses if you participate in outdoor activities like kayaking, camping, or mountaineering. If so, prioritize durability as well as sacrifice style. Sunglasses with polycarbonate or Trivex lenses are impact-resistant and weightless, offering a safer and more comfortable wearing experience when engaged in high-mobility sports activities. Polycarbonate and Trivex lenses also guarantee excellent optical quality, which is crucial when your sports demand razor-sharp vision, such as cycling, running, or hiking.
Driving and commuting sunglasses allow a lot of light to enter your eye so that you will want something with clear vision and significant glare reduction. Except for driving, complete UV protection is needed (99-100 percent UVA and UVB). Polarised lenses are beneficial for driving glasses because they significantly back light lenses reduce glare off flat, reflective surfaces like car hoods, roads, and puddles of water with significant effect. As a result, it offers increased visual comfort and visibility, allowing you to see more of what is happening on the road.
Beach and Water Activities
UV protection sunglasses used for playing on the beach or in the water must have high glare reduction and durability due to bright, reflective conditions. The environment for these activities has much water glare, almost entirely removed by polarised lenses. Each beach or water activity sunglasses should have this feature. Boating, fishing, and swimming can all benefit from glare reduction for sight clarity and aid in visibility.
Look for sunglasses that have 100% blocking of UVA and UVB radiation, which helps protect your eyes from the damaging exposure that often occurs at the beach. Polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant and lightweight, making them a great choice since the glasses will be dropped occasionally and carried in a towel and tote. Mirrored lenses can be a good choice, as they reflect much light. This will lower your exposure to glare and bright conditions and reduce eye fatigue.
Fashion and High-End Events
Whether it’s fashion or the High End, good UV protection sunglasses need to do two things: set you apart and leave no rays behind. Seek out luxury sunglasses crafted from the finest materials with a forward-thinking design.
Most luxury lenses have been treated with advanced coatings for optimal 100 percent UVA and UVB protection, ensuring superior visual acuity and an enhanced view of the outdoors. In addition to coated lenses, luxury sunglasses often feature exclusive technologies, such as full gradient lenses, tints, and photochromic lenses that adapt to changing light conditions.
How to Choose the Right UV Protection Sunglasses for You
How should you decide what’s right for you? It begins with how you’ll be using your UV protection sunglasses. Ask yourself how much time you spend outdoors and how you intend to use them. The answer to these questions will determine the level of protection you’ll require.
Some people need different levels of UV protection regarding sunglasses. When a pair is described as offering 100 percent UVA and UVB protection, your eyes will be shielded from harsh rays with every use. If you spend time outdoors working or for leisure, the right sunglasses will be those that offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection.
Matching Sunglasses to Face Shape
Finding a pair of sunglasses with the right shape for your face can dramatically improve your look and make sure that your glasses fit your face comfortably. All face shapes work best with certain frame styles, and knowing your face shape can help you narrow down the frame styles that will look best.
If your face is oval, which is usually a balanced look slightly longer than it is wide, most frame styles will look good on your face. Try out different shapes, from pilot sunglasses to square frames, to see what look works best with your face shape.
If you have a classic round face, full cheeks, and a rounded chin, opt for sunglasses with sharp angles and edges to add some definition. Rectangular or square frames will help lengthen your face and slim it down. If you have a square face, a broad jaw, and a large, strong forehead, rounded or oval frames will soften the look, adding some balance. Slight cat-eye shape and other aviator sunglasses shapes also work with some added understated glamour.
Considering Lifestyle and Preferences
Your lifestyle and personal habits also influence this decision. Are you a commuter who clicked your way to this article, searching for everyday safe sunglasses? Or do you have more active habits? The right sunglasses must be durable and lightweight for athletes and active people.
Wraparound sunglasses are ideal for active lifestyles, as they’re more unobtrusive and guarantee robust protection. Those who are active will appreciate temperature-resistant rubberized nose pads and temple tips to improve grip, providing security even in a concerted effort.
Polarised lenses are necessary for drivers who spend a lot of time on the road. They reduce glare from the road and other vehicles, and if you are the driver, they also improve side vision, improving your visual field and, in turn, enhancing your safety.
You’ll want to try on the sunglasses to be sure they fit comfortably before buying them. Choose a retailer that stocks adequate UV protection sunglasses in various styles and sizes. Experiment with different shapes and sizes to find a pair that feels good on your nose and sits snugly against your ears without putting too much pressure on them. The eyewear should feel secure on your face and not slide off as you move your head.
Reading Reviews and Ratings
Reading reviews and ratings is an important step when choosing the right UV-protection sunglasses: these reviews from other customers can detail the performance, durability, and comfort of the sunglasses you are researching.
Pay attention to the reviews that mention items or features you want to look for, such as whether a sunglass’s UV protection is adequate, whether the lens in the sunglass you are considering is clear and distortion-free, or whether the frame feels too delicate. Read both good and bad reviews to get the whole picture.
Real customer reviews can often point out common issues consumers notice when suffering from buyer’s remorse, such as sunglasses lenses that scratch easily or frames that become uncomfortable on the ears after a day or two of wear.
How to Care for Your UV Protection Sunglasses
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
The best way to ensure proper cleanliness and maintenance of your UV protection sunglasses, keep them in tip-top condition, and prolong their lifespan is to rinse them with lukewarm water to remove any dust or dirt that could scratch the lenses while you clean them.
Using an assortment of mild dish soap to wash your UV protection sunglasses lenses and frames before soaking them in water will remove dirt and oil. Avoid using strong chemicals such as bleach, as they can affect the coating and cause damage. After cleaning with water, rinse your sunglasses to remove any residual soap.
Storing Your Sunglasses Properly
Proper sunglass storage also helps keep your UV protection sunglasses in tip-top shape because you’re protecting them from the unavoidable bumps or accidents that are certain to come. When you’re not using your sunglasses, could you keep them in a hard-shell case? The shell protects against being crushed, scratched, or bent. If you don’t have a hard case, put your sunglasses in a soft microfiber pouch for short-term storage; remember, a pouch can provide no physical protection.
When to Replace Your Sunglasses
Knowing when to stop wearing UV protection sunglasses and replace them with new options is critical to ensuring your eyes receive complete protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
UV protection coatings degrade over time, so if your eyes start feeling like they could use some more protection from the rays (they might be squinting more, or your eyes might be tired or sore after spending time in the sun), or if you notice increased glare, that might be a sign that the lenses survived a little too long.
DIY Repairs and When to Seek Professional Help
Some minor problems with your UV protection sunglasses can be fixed at home, while others require professional help. Some easy do-it-yourself repairs can include tightening loose screws with a small screwdriver, replacing a lost screw, or swapping out degenerative nose pads and temple tips. Having a kit with these supplies is inexpensive and easy to acquire.
Protecting Your Sunglasses from Damage
Simple but valuable habits will help ensure your UV protection sunglasses last as long as possible. Pull your sunglasses on with both hands and take them off with both hands to eliminate the risk of bending the frames. If you aren’t wearing them, remove them from your face and put them in a case rather than hanging them from your shirt collar or on top of your head, where they can easily fall off and get bent out of shape.
Trends in UV Protection Sunglasses
It is 2024. Ultraviolet (UV) protection sunglasses continue to combine fashion and functionality, incorporating the latest trends in avant-garde eyewear while providing optimum eye protection. A big trend emerging for this year is oversized frames, which are quickly becoming the frame size du jour for sun protection.
These extreme UV frame styles provide optimal eye coverage against UV rays while delivering a bold fashion statement. These sunglasses are often chunky, with oversized geometric shapes that are both contemporary and retro, giving your face a Hollywood glamour look straight out of the golden era movie costume department.
Sustainable and Eco-friendly Options
Environmental concerns are leading to sustainability becoming the new trend in 2024 Sunglasses. Eco-friendly consumers are now buying sunglasses and taking a stance on protecting the Earth, and many brands, such as Kraywoods, are embracing this trend and making changes accordingly. Their sunglasses are equipped with UV400 lenses, and they are also polarized.
The advent of inexpensive and efficient techniques for recovering, recycling, and repurposing plastics and other materials enables the market to tackle a daunting task in the eyewear category. We are witnessing the popularity of sustainable materials derived from recycled plastics, bio-based acetates, and even re or efficacy.
Technological Innovations in Sunglasses
As technology resumes to develop rapidly, many new developments in the UV protection sunglasses market are shaping the market uniquely, making various products enhance the user experience and its functions. The most innovative trend is the use of intelligent technology.
Celebrity Endorsements and Influencer Picks
It was partly the result of celebrity endorsements and influencer picks. These days, if you want to know which UV protection sunglasses are the best to buy, look no further than the stars. Top celebs such as Beyoncé, Kendall Jenner, and Chris Hemsworth regularly rock their favorite specs in public and on Instagram, which encourages consumer interest and boosts sales. Aviators, oversized, and retro styles are best sellers because celebrities have been caught wearing them.
Final Thoughts on UV Light
Choosing the best UV protection sunglasses isn't just about fashion. It's about looking after your eyes' health and protecting your vision on sunny days. That's why we've chosen these pairs. Please select your favorite from our list and go out with confidence.
After all, when looking for the best UV protection sunglasses, you will also look for shades that suit your style well. So, do yourself a favor, go out there, and buy yourself a pair of superior-quality UV protection sunglasses as soon as possible. We know it will make your daily activities more fun and safer for your eyes.