Two things matter when you buy sunglasses: how well they protect your eyes from UV light, and how long they last. They are not the same thing, and neither can be judged by how dark the lenses look.
A dark lens is not the same as UV protection
This is the point most people miss. Tint darkness controls how much visible light reaches your eyes. UV protection is a separate property of the lens. A dark lens without UV protection can be worse than a clear one: it makes the pupil open wider while still letting UV through. So never use the colour or darkness of the lens as a proxy.
What to look for on UV protection
- "UV400" or "100% UV protection". This describes a lens that blocks UV light up to 400 nanometres, covering UVA and UVB.
- Where the claim comes from. Ask the seller what the label is based on. If there is no label, ask.
- Coverage. A larger or wraparound frame lets less light in around the edges.
Polarised is a different feature
Polarised lenses reduce glare from flat surfaces such as water and wet roads. That is useful for driving and being outdoors, but polarisation is not the same as UV protection. A polarised lens should also have UV protection, and you should check both. See polarised versus UV-protected sunglasses.
Checking durability
- Hinges. Open and close the arms. They should feel firm and even, not loose or gritty.
- Frame material. Flexible materials often cope better with daily knocks. See frame materials compared.
- Lens quality. Look through the lenses at a straight line and move them slightly. Lines should not wave or distort.
- Finish. Check the edges and the coating for rough or uneven areas.
- Fit. Sunglasses that slip or pinch are unlikely to be worn, so the best-protecting pair is the one that stays on your face.
If you wear a prescription
You can have tinted lenses made to your prescription in suitable frames. Ask whether the frame can take your prescription and whether UV protection is included in the lens. Browse our sunglasses and see how to choose lenses.
Looking after them
Keep them in a case, avoid leaving them on a hot dashboard, and clean the lenses with a microfibre cloth. See how to clean and maintain your spectacles.
This article is general information, not medical advice. For persistent symptoms or any sudden change in your vision, see an eye-care professional.
Need Help Choosing the Right Eyewear?
Every customer has different vision requirements, preferences, and budgets. Deepak Opticals offers in-store eye testing and spectacle repair services, including repairs for frames purchased elsewhere.
Contact us to discuss your eyewear requirements, explore available options, or ask about repairing your existing spectacles.
Deepak Opticals, Your Local Destination for Eyewear and Spectacle Repairs.