How to Choose Sunglasses?
1. Types of Frames
You need to consider several aspects when choosing a new pair of sunglasses. What’s great about this type of glasses is that you can choose a frame made of different types of metals or plastic.
Pros and Cons of Metal Frames
Pros
- More stylish look
- Ability to adjust the frame and nose pads
Cons
- More fragile hinges
- Risk of allergies
Pros and Cons of Plastic Frames
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- More durable and sturdier
Cons
- Heat can warp them
- Colour may fade over time
2. Different Lens Shapes for Different Faces
Lens shape is mainly where people begin to have difficulty finding a model that suits them. Depending on the shape of your face, certain shapes will be a better fit for your facial contours and ensure that you look incredible.
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Round face: Rectangular frames will soften your features. The frame should sit just above your cheeks for a better fit.
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Oval face: Strongly consider an oversized frame.
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Square face: A round frame with angular features is best. The frame should be a bit wider than your cheekbones.
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Heart-shaped face: The wayfarer style is for you. The frame will be a little wider than your forehead.
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Triangular face: Home in on cat eye sunglasses with details on top.
3. Types of Lenses for Sunglasses
As for lenses, just like high-performance eyeglasses, they are endowed with various technologies.
Polycarbonate or Glass
When it comes time to choose your lenses, you should know that there are mainly two materials on the market: polycarbonate and glass.
Pros and Cons of Polycarbonate
Pros
- More impact resistant
- Lighter and therefore more enjoyable when you're active
Cons
- Can contain impurities that cause eye fatigue
- Mirrored lenses scratch more easily
Pros and Cons of Glass
Pros
- More scratch resistant
- Better visual clarity
Cons
- Heavier
It’s also important to differentiate low- and high-end polycarbonate lenses. High-end polycarbonate lenses are treated to remove impurities and are moulded to the eye’s shape, which prevents accelerated eye fatigue and headaches.
Choosing Polarized Lenses
The most common technology is polarization. This technology eliminates reflections on surfaces, such as water, chrome bumpers or window panes. Eliminating reflections allows the eye to rest and prevents headaches.
Multiple Lens Colours (Tints)
When choosing the tint of your sunglasses, you should consider how you’ll use them.
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An amber tint is ideal for people wearing sunglasses every day. This lens tint softens sunlight on cloudless days and has a pleasant amber colour when it’s grey out.
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Dark tints are helpful in dazzling sunshine. However, they may be too dark and lessen visual clarity when it’s cloudy.
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Lens colours (blue, red, purple, green) add a splash of style. However, they often have a grey base tint. Keep in mind that blue lenses won’t turn your surroundings blue.
There are different technologies on the market that enhance colour contrast, which makes for outstanding visual clarity. In this vein, Smith’s ChromaPop® technology or Oakley’s Prizm® lens come to mind.
With these guideposts, you can now choose a new pair of sunglasses and get complimented on your style. Of course, you can always come up with your own ideas that fit your personality. The main thing is to make a choice and then just go with it.
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