How To Choose the Right Sunglasses this Summer

Sunnier days and summer activities are here! Are you sunglasses up to the task?

Do you normally purchase sunglasses based on their design and don’t consider their other features? While finding sunglasses that look good on you is a big part of their appeal, you could be missing out on important features that boost UV protection, comfort and wearability.

From the UV protection and the type of lenses, to the fit and activity you intend to wear them for, there are many factors to consider when choosing the right sunglasses.

Make a smart choice this summer and find the right sunglasses to suit your specific needs with our helpful guide.

Opt for maximum UV protection

Summer means stronger UV rays, more outdoor activities and an increased need for protection from bright sunshine.

For the best protection, look out for these features when shopping for your next pair of sunglasses:

• UVA and UVB protection
• A UV 400 label, which ensures 100% protection
• A ‘CE Mark’, showing that the sunglasses conform to EU safety standards

Visible Light Transmission

Depending on your needs, you should also look out for the VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percentage. The higher the percentage, the more light that will pass through the lens to your eyes.

• 0-19% VLT: Best for bright, sunny conditions.
• 20-40% VLT: For all-purpose use.
• 40+% VLT: Good for overcast and low-light conditions.
• 80-90+% VLT: Used for very dim and night conditions.

Bonus tips for maximum sun protection

• Darker lenses do not necessarily block more UV rays. Check the UV labels to ensure maximum protection and ask the shop assistant if you need help locating this information.
• UV rays can penetrate thin clouds, so wearing sunglasses should not be confined to bright summer sunshine.
• Oversized or wraparound lenses will protect a larger area of your face

Consider when you’ll wear your sunglasses

From lazing on the beach to hiking your way across mountain peaks, different activities require different sunglasses.

Before deciding on which sunglasses to purchase this summer, you’ll first want to consider the activities you’ll likely be doing while wearing them.

Casual

Suitable for everyday use, casual sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun as you walk around the town, lounge by the pool or do other casual activities.

Sports

Sports sunglasses are made for sports and high-intensity activities such as running or biking. Their frames and lenses are made of more impact-resistant materials than casual sunglasses and often have features that help the sunglasses grip better to your face to combat excessive movement and sweating.

Explore specialised lenses

Polarised lenses

If you struggle with the effects of glare, polarised sunglasses are a great option.

They can also offer other benefits to their wearers such as enhanced colour perception and increased visual sharpness, which in addition to their glare-reducing qualities, make them a great accessory for water sports.

Light reactive lenses

These clever lenses automatically adapt to changing light intensities in your environment. Light reactive or photochromic lenses become darker in bright conditions and lighter as conditions get darker.

Most specialist lenses have both pros and cons depending on how you plan to use them, so contact your local Opticare Opticians and we’ll help you make an informed decision on choosing the right lenses for you.

Tips for trying on sunglasses

• Frames should fit snugly on your nose and ears but shouldn’t pinch or feel uncomfortable.
• Your eyelashes should not touch the frame or lens.
• The weight of your sunglasses should be evenly distributed between your ears and nose but should be light enough to avoid excess pressure on these areas.

Explore our superior range of specialist and designer brands and let our experts help you find your ideal pair of sunglasses for summer by visiting us in-store at your local Opticare Opticians branch.

Book your appointment to see our full range here