It is that time of year when people start buying sunglasses again. Memories of winter are fading while dreams of long, summer days on the beach are beginning to emerge. So it’s off to the store to get everything you need in advance of spending more time outdoors.
The goal of this article is to help you find that perfect pair of designer sunglasses that will get you through the spring and summer. However, you are not going to read about face shape and size, lens colors, or even designer names.
Rather, this article is about three things that do not get talked about much despite their importance. All three are based on recommendations from Utah-based Olympic Eyewear, a company that designs and distributes dozens of brands of sunglasses to retailers across the country.
Note that these three considerations come after UV rating. Knowing what we know about harmful ultraviolet rays, finding a pair of sunglasses with a UV rating of at least 300 is non-negotiable. It is better if you can find a pair with a rating of UV 400.
1. The Weight
Consider how a pair of sunglasses feels on your face. Much of what you feel relates to the weight of the glasses. Heavy sunglasses are not as comfortable because they pinch the nose and apply undue pressure on it.
Weight is a big deal if you’re the kind of person who wears sunglasses for more than a few minutes at a time. Why? Because shades that are too heavy eventually cause discomfort. You might feel that discomfort as pain in the nose. You might feel it as a headache. In either case, you don’t get relief until you take your sunglasses off. As soon as you figure that out, you’re more likely to not wear your sunglasses just to avoid the discomfort.
2. The Fit
The next thing you want to consider is the fit. Note that we are not talking about how sunglasses fit in terms of the size and shape of your face. We are talking about how they actually interact with your nose and ears to keep them in place.
A pair of sunglasses that fits too loosely is at risk of falling off every time you turn your head, bend over, or move quickly. Another pair that fits too tightly will not go anywhere, but they will probably be uncomfortable enough that you won’t want to wear them. What’s the point then?
You are ideally looking for a pair of sunglasses that fits well enough to stay in place but not so snugly as to make you uncomfortable. You may have to try on a few pairs to find the right one.
3. The Construction
Finally, look closely at how well sunglasses are constructed. Even if you find a lightweight pair with a perfect fit, poor quality construction could make them a no go. There is no point spending good money on sunglasses that cannot stand up to the rigors of a single summer season.
Olympic Eyewear says a telltale sign of quality construction are the hinges on each arm. A good solid hinge with a tight joint denotes good construction. In addition, check the lenses to see how tightly they fit in the frames. If they are loose, that’s a sign of poor construction.
UV protection is obviously the most important factor when shopping for sunglasses. But take a good look at these other three factors as well. You’re going to spend good money on new shades, so you might just as well get a pair that’s worth the price.