How to Choose the Correct Sunglasses for You

There are a few things to keep in mind before you buy your next pair of sunglasses. If you want to beat the summer sun and look good doing it, check out this quick guide. We teach you how to choose the correct sunglasses, so you can stay safe and look great.

UV Protection

First and foremost, the most important thing to consider is ultraviolet (UV) protection. UV rays can cause cancer and cornea inflammation or burns . The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends sunglasses that block at least 99% of UVB and UVA rays.

Style and Shape

There are plenty of styles to choose from, but it’s important to choose a style that works best with your facial features :

• Round: rectangle, square, wrap or shield
• Square: aviators, butterflies, round
• Oval: any frame
• Oblong: wrap, shield, square, wayfarer, and rectangle
• Diamond: oval and rimless
• Heart: shield, butterfly, rimless, aviator

Fit

While sizes are universal for adults, it’s still important to find something with a proper fit. The glasses you choose should be balanced on the bridge of your nose and on your ears. One way to see if your sunglasses are balanced is to set them right-side up on a flat surface. If the ends rest on the surface, then the glasses are balanced. If the ends are askew, you should have a professional adjust them accordingly.

Lenses

There are many different colored lenses used for all sorts of different activities, so buy the right pair for you:

• Yellow/orange: gaming , driving, snow activities, indoor sports
• Green: tennis, baseball, golf
• Amber/Brown: fishing, baseball, golf, hunting, cycling, water sports
• Grey: driving, outdoor sports
• Melanin: aging
• Pink/Red: driving, computer use

Premium sunglasses are absolutely worth the investment. According to the Vision Rehabilitation Services of Georgia , “Without proper sunglasses, nearly 40% of [sun rays] get into our eyes even when we’re not directly exposed [to sunlight].” So, don’t take knowing how to choose the correct sunglasses for granted. This summer, use your knowledge to keep your eyes safe—the right sunglasses can make all the difference.