The Best Polarized Sunglasses
When you're picking out your next pair of sunglasses, it's important to look beyond style. Sunglass lenses can help give you crisp, sharp vision and protect your eyes from the sun's harsh UV rays. But to maximize the benefits, it's important to add a pair of polarized sunglasses to your rotation. These special lenses minimize glare, help prevent eye strain, and deliver a more comfortable way to see things clearly. From classic aviators to more edgy, modern frames, polarized sunglasses come in all shapes and sizes. Read on to find out more about our favorites.
What to Look For
When shopping for polarized sunglasses, we suggest focusing on three key factors: the shape of the frames, the durability of the design, and whether or not the lenses have protective coatings. These factors helped us round up a few of our own favorites. For example, we love Sojos’s retro polarized sunglasses, which offer a fantastic blend of form and function. The stylish frames give you an effortless edge, while the polarized lenses protect your eyes from harsh glare. Kuguaok’s sport sunglasses, on the other hand, are the ideal option for any outdoor activity. Designed for water sports and activities like fishing or boating, they’re lightweight and wearable enough for all-day adventures. Explore these sunglasses and our other top contenders to find your pick.
Sojos Retro Square Polarized Sunglasses
These gold-colored metal frames can add a lovely hint of glam to your daily ensembles. Made from stainless steel, the frames are durable enough for daily use — especially for those who are typically tough on their sunglasses. The square-shaped glasses are also outfitted with UV-coated, polarized lenses that protect your eyes from harsh, harmful rays. Try them for yourself to level up any look.
Pros:
- Because the frames are stainless steel, they don’t easily bend or rust, even if they’re exposed to water. That means that you can wear them at the beach, pool, or other waterfront locations without worry.
- The glasses come with a microfiber storage pouch and cleaning cloth, so you can ensure they’re always spotless.
Cons:
- Over time, the polarized coating may start to peel off the lenses.
Kaliyadi Polarized Sunglasses, 3-Pack
Triple threat
With the help of these understated sunglasses, achieving an effortlessly cool look is easy. This bundle includes three pairs of glasses, all with a matte black finish and polarized lenses. Designed to give you a designer look for less, the sunglasses will help minimize glare and prevent eye fatigue. Keep all three pairs yourself or share them with friends and family for matching, on-trend eyewear.
Pros:
- Despite the affordable price tag, these sunglasses deliver fantastic quality. They’re durable, lightweight, and stylish — even more so than other expensive pairs.
- You can also choose from sets in different colors to find an option that best matches your style.
Cons:
- The glasses are a bit wide, so they may be better suited for men than women.
Kuguaok Polarized Sports Sunglasses, 2-Pack
Hook, line, and sinker
If you spend a lot of time in the water, these sunglasses are a must-have accessory. Made with polarized lenses to minimize glare and help you see more clearly, they’ll transform your vision for fishing and boating, along with other outdoor activities like biking or hiking. The lightweight and sleek frames are also easy to wear, delivering a barely-there feel that’s comfortable all day. They even come with included sunglass straps to offer added peace of mind.
Pros:
- We love that in addition to the sunglass straps, the glasses come with both a hard and a soft case. This allows you to swap them out depending on your needs.
- The set comes with two pairs, so you can stash an extra in your car or boat to always have one on hand.
Cons:
- Because the sunglasses frames themselves are curved, they may not fit all face shapes comfortably.
Sojos Round Polarized Sunglasses
Old-school style
These sunglasses are equal parts timeless and on-trend. The round, tortoise-shell frame looks great on every face shape, making them a universally flattering style. They’re also finished with UV-protective, polarized lenses that help prevent glare and protect your eyes from harsh sunlight. Once you try them for yourself, we’re confident they’ll quickly become your new to-go sunglasses.
Pros:
- The frames are incredibly lightweight, so they’re easy to wear — even for hours at a time.
- Because they come in many different colors and styles, it shouldn’t be hard to find the perfect match to complement your wardrobe.
Cons:
- They don’t have any nose pads, which some people may find a bit uncomfortable.
Ray-Ban RB3025 Polarized Aviator Sunglasses
Classically cool
These aviator sunglasses will never go out of style. The statement-making glasses feature classic green polarized lenses and gold-colored metal frames that add a hint of glam. Cushioned nose pads offer enhanced support and deliver all-day comfort. They even come in multiple different sizes, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find the perfect fit for your face shape.
Pros:
- These polarized lenses eliminate nearly all glare. This makes it easier to see clearly while in bright sunlight — even when compared to other polarized lenses.
- We appreciate the wide variety of color combinations on offer here.
Cons:
- Because the sides of the glasses are wide open, you may still experience some glare in your peripheral vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do polarized lenses look different than standard ones?
No. When looking at polarized or non-polarized lenses, it’s nearly impossible to tell them apart. However, once you put the sunglasses on, you can typically tell the difference. When you turn polarized lenses 90 degrees while looking at a bright, reflective light, the light will grow in intensity. In non-polarized lenses, however, the light will look the same.
Do polarized lenses block UV light?
No. Polarized lenses don’t necessarily protect against ultraviolet light. Most polarized lenses, however, also have a UV coating that protects the eyes against harsh rays. Be sure to check the specifications of your specific glasses to determine if they block UV light.
About the Author
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