As we begin to enjoy longer days, warmer weather, and a healthy dose of Vitamin D, there’s no better time to invest in a new pair of shades. But with so many options to choose from, how do you decide on the perfect pair that will not only complement your style but also protect your eyes?
Read on as we explore what to look for in a pair of men sunglasses and we share our favorite tips for finding the hottest sunglasses 2021 has to offer.
Why Is UV Protection Important?
There’s no denying that wearing sunglasses adds an element of ‘cool’ to your ensemble. However, a pair of shades is far more than just a stylish accessory. Donning on a pair of sunglasses for men can be the difference between healthy and damaged eyes. As much as we love the sun, overexposure to UV light can contribute to significant eye problems, such as:
Fortunately, by donning protective sunglasses for men, you can reduce the cumulative effects of the sun’s harmful UV radiation on your eyes and protect your vision. It’s important to look for men's sunglasses that block 100% of both UVB and UVA rays. UVA rays have the power to penetrate the cornea and reach the retina of your eye.
While UVB rays are partially filtered by the ozone layer, they can still damage your eyes if proper safety measures are not taken. You should still wear sunglasses on overcast days as UV rays can pass through clouds and cause damage. With a pair of UV-protecting sunglasses, you can make a fashion statement and protect your eyes at the same time. Now that’s cool.
The Power of Polarized Lenses
There are many men’s eyewear options that feature polarized lenses. These types of lenses have a special treatment applied to them which blocks the horizontal light that passes through them. As a result, they reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water or snow which can interfere with your vision.
If you’re planning to hit the beach, ski slopes, or spend lots of time out on the water, we highly recommend you invest in men’s eyewear with polarized lenses. Most polarized lenses now have built-in UV protection too, making outdoor activities safer and more enjoyable.
Polarized lenses can offer improved vision. Without glare and with a darkened view, your vision will be more comfortable in bright conditions. In particular, polarized lenses are extremely helpful when battling sun glare for prolonged periods. Polarized lenses can offer:
More Coverage for More Protection
With some things in life, less is more but when it comes to protecting your eyes, more coverage means more protection. This means that your eyes will be less exposed to the risks of sun damage. You may even want to consider buying oversized or wraparound-style men’s sunglasses, to prevent UV rays from penetrating the eye from either side.
Scratch Resistance You Can Trust
When you purchase a pair of shades, you’ll want to make sure they can cope with scratches from wear and tear – as well as all that sand from your trips to the beach! A scratch on a lens could obstruct your vision, making it difficult to see. So, choose sunglasses you can trust for your active lifestyle.
How scratch-resistant your sunglasses are, depends on the type of lens you choose. Polycarbonate or Trivex lenses both have a built-in scratch-resistant coating and are more impact-resistant than normal glass and plastic lenses. With these lenses, you can enjoy wearing a lightweight pair of men’s sunglasses that are impressively strong, comfortable, and durable.
Bear in mind that no pair of sunglasses lenses are ever 100% scratch-proof, even with a protective coating. Even if you have scratch-resistant sunglasses, it’s still important to practice good care by keeping them in a case when you’re not wearing them and remembering to clean them properly.
Sunglasses with a Prescription
For those who wear glasses every day, prescription sunglasses are a dream come true. Not only do prescription sunglasses correct your vision, but they also protect your eyes from the sun. There are several options when it comes to choosing lenses that are right for you. While dark lenses look trendy, they do not necessarily do a better job at blocking UV rays, unless they offer 100% UV protection. Photochromic lenses are great because they darken when exposed to UV in sunlight, meaning they can quickly adjust in changing light conditions.
Enjoy the Sun Safely and In Style
While it’s important to wear sunglasses for eye protection, let’s not forget that they are also a great way to elevate your style. With so many different designs and brands to choose from, there’s truly something to complement every face shape, outfit, and lifestyle. Whether you prefer a classic design or a contemporary look, you’re sure to find the best sunglasses for men in 2021 that are the perfect combination of functional, stylish, and fun.
