The summer may be coming to an end, but a good pair of shades is useful year-round, especially for dealing with that low winter sun. The end of the season means there will be plenty of opportunities to get some new sunnies at a reduced price.
Sunglasses are more than just a stylish accessory; they’re crucial in protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays and reducing glare, making activities like driving safer. But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect pair?
Vision Direct is a leading online eyewear retailer that runs a great sunglasses sale, with a huge selection of designer brands and a two-year warranty as standard. With such a wide range to choose from, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the best sunglasses for your needs.
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Understand the UV Protection
- UV400 Protection: This means the glasses block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. These are harmful ultraviolet rays that can lead to cataracts and other eye issues. Always look for a sticker or tag indicating the level of protection.
- Polarization: Polarized lenses reduce glare from surfaces like water, roads, and cars. They’re especially useful for those who are into water sports, driving, or skiing.
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Determine the Purpose
- Fashion: If style is your primary concern, the world is your oyster. From cat-eye shapes to aviator styles, there are countless designs to match any outfit or face shape.
- Sport: For activities like running, cycling, or skiing, you’ll want wrap-around frames that won’t easily fall off. Look for rubberized noses or temple tips to ensure grip.
- Driving: Reduce glare and enhance clarity with polarized lenses.
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Pick the Right Frame for Your Face Shape
- Round Face: Opt for square or rectangular frames to balance the roundness.
- Square Face: Round or oval frames can soften the angular features.
- Oval Face: Lucky you! Most frame shapes will complement an oval face.
- Heart-Shaped Face: Aviator or bottom-heavy frames can help balance the width of the forehead with the narrowness of the chin.
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Lens Material Matters
- Polycarbonate: Lightweight and up to 10 times more impact-resistant than plastic or glass lenses.
- Glass: Offers the best clarity but can be heavy and breakable.
- Plastic: Common in most sunglasses, but might not offer the best durability.
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Consider the Lens Color
- Different colors enhance contrast, depth perception, and clarity. Here’s a quick guide:
- Gray: Reduces light intensity without altering the color of objects.
- Brown/Amber: Best for varying light conditions, enhancing contrast.
- Yellow/Gold: Great for hazy, low-light conditions.
- Green: Good for general purposes, reducing glare while brightening shadows.
- Rose/Red: Helpful in low-light conditions, enhancing road visibility.
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Determine Your Budget:
- While higher-priced sunglasses often offer better quality, protection, and comfort, there are many affordable brands that provide excellent UV protection and stylish designs. It’s all about finding the right balance between price and functionality.
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Try Before You Buy
- The best way to know if a pair of sunglasses is right for you is to try them on. Even if you’re buying online, it might be worth heading to a store to see how different styles fit and feel.
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Check for Lens Distortions
- Hold the sunglasses at arm’s length and then look through them at a straight line in the distance, like the edge of a door. Slowly move the lens across the line. If the straight edge distorts, sways, or curves, then it’s a sign of optical distortion, and you might want to pick a different pair.
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Don’t Forget the Extras
- Some sunglasses come with additional features like anti-reflective coatings, mirror coatings, or gradient lenses. These can either be purely aesthetic choices or functional enhancements, depending on your needs.
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Check the Return Policy
- In case the sunglasses don’t live up to your expectations, it’s always a good idea to check the return policy, especially if purchasing online.
In conclusion, selecting the perfect pair of sunglasses is a blend of understanding the functional aspects and your personal style preferences. By keeping the above tips in mind, you’re sure to find a pair that not only protects your eyes but also adds to your style quotient. Happy shopping!
