Sunglasses are often treated primarily as a fashion accessory. Frame shape, colour and brand can certainly matter, but the lenses themselves deserve just as much attention.

Two pairs of sunglasses may look almost identical while offering very different levels of UV protection, glare reduction and visual comfort.

This is particularly relevant in South Africa, where bright sunlight and high UV levels make sunglasses useful throughout much of the year.

The good news is that you don’t necessarily have to spend a fortune to get good protection. The most important thing is understanding what the claims on the label actually mean.

How to Choose the Right Sunglasses: A Practical Buying Guide

What does UV protection mean?

UV stands for ultraviolet radiation, which is invisible radiation from the sun.

The ultraviolet portion of sunlight includes UVA and UVB radiation. The eyes can be exposed to UV not only from direct sunlight but also from light reflected from surfaces such as water, sand and other bright surfaces.

Quality sunglasses should therefore provide effective UV protection rather than simply making the world appear darker.

What are UVA and UVB?

UVA and UVB are different portions of ultraviolet radiation.

You don’t need to become an expert in wavelengths to buy sunglasses, but you should understand the basic point:

The darkness of a lens does not tell you how much UV protection it provides.

A very dark pair of sunglasses can provide poor UV protection, while a relatively light-tinted lens can provide excellent UV protection. The FDA specifically advises consumers not to use lens darkness as an indicator of UV protection.

That is one of the most important things to understand when buying sunglasses.

What does UV400 mean?

UV400 is a commonly used designation for sunglasses designed to block ultraviolet radiation up to approximately 400 nanometres.

The FDA advises consumers to look for sunglasses labelled UV400 or 100% UV protection, describing these as providing protection against more than 99% of UVA and UVB radiation.

For an ordinary consumer, the practical takeaway is simple:

Look for a clearly stated UV protection claim rather than judging sunglasses by how dark the lenses appear.

If a seller provides no meaningful information about UV protection, be cautious about assuming that the lenses provide adequate protection.

Darker lenses don’t necessarily mean better protection

This is one of the most common misunderstandings about sunglasses.

A dark grey or black lens may look as though it offers more protection than a pale brown or green lens.

That isn’t necessarily true.

Lens tint and UV protection are separate characteristics.

A manufacturer can produce a lightly coloured lens with strong UV protection, while a dark-looking lens isn’t automatically protective.

The FDA specifically warns consumers not to mistake dark-tinted lenses for UV protection.

This is particularly important when buying inexpensive fashion sunglasses.

Don’t ask:

“How dark are the lenses?”

Instead ask:

“What UV protection do the lenses provide?”

What is polarisation?

Polarisation is another feature that is frequently advertised on sunglasses.

A polarised lens is designed to reduce certain types of reflected glare.

This can be particularly noticeable when light reflects from surfaces such as:

Water
Wet roads
Car surfaces
Glass
Snow
Other bright surfaces

The result can be a more comfortable visual experience in bright conditions.

However, polarisation is not the same thing as UV protection.

A pair of sunglasses can be polarised without providing the UV protection you should be looking for.

Therefore, don’t assume that the word “polarised” automatically means “UV protected.”

Check for both.

The FDA likewise advises consumers to check whether polarised sunglasses also provide UV protection.

Polarised vs non-polarised sunglasses

So which should you choose?

It depends on how you intend to use them.

Polarised sunglasses

They can be particularly useful when you’re dealing with strong reflected glare.

They may be worth considering for:

Driving during the day
Holidays near water
Outdoor activities
Beach visits
Bright environments
General everyday use if you prefer the visual effect

Non-polarised sunglasses

These can still provide excellent UV protection.

If the sunglasses have effective UV protection and a suitable tint, they can be perfectly adequate for everyday use.

You don’t need polarisation simply because it sounds more advanced.

Think of polarisation as an additional feature, not a substitute for UV protection.

What do different lens colours actually do?

Lens colour is partly a matter of personal preference, but it can also influence the way you perceive your surroundings.

Grey lenses

Grey is a popular all-purpose choice.

It tends to reduce brightness without dramatically changing the appearance of colours.

For many people, this makes grey a practical everyday lens colour.

Brown or amber lenses

Brown and amber lenses can produce a warmer visual appearance and may increase perceived contrast in some situations.

They are popular for outdoor activities and general use.

Green lenses

Green lenses are another versatile option.

They can reduce brightness while maintaining reasonably natural-looking colours.

Yellow or amber lenses

These can increase perceived contrast in certain lower-light conditions.

However, they should not be assumed to be suitable for every situation simply because they appear brighter or clearer.

Blue or fashion-coloured lenses

Blue, pink, purple and other colours can be attractive from a fashion perspective.

The colour itself doesn’t determine whether the sunglasses provide adequate UV protection.

Again, check the UV specification rather than judging protection from the tint.

What about mirrored sunglasses?

Mirrored sunglasses have a reflective coating on the outside of the lens.

They can reduce the amount of visible light entering the eye and can be useful in bright conditions.

They are also popular because they can give sunglasses a distinctive appearance.

But once again, the mirrored appearance does not automatically tell you anything about UV protection.

Check the manufacturer’s specifications.

What are gradient lenses?

Gradient sunglasses have lenses that are darker at one end and lighter at the other.

A common design has a darker upper section and a lighter lower section.

This can be useful in certain situations because the darker upper part helps reduce bright overhead light while the lighter lower section can make it easier to see objects closer to you.

Gradient lenses are often used in fashion sunglasses and can also be practical for some everyday situations.

However, if you spend a lot of time in extremely bright conditions, a more uniformly tinted lens may be preferable.

Do expensive sunglasses provide better UV protection?

Not necessarily.

A high price can reflect the brand, frame construction, materials, design, optical quality or other features.

It doesn’t automatically mean the sunglasses provide better UV protection.

The FDA specifically notes that more expensive sunglasses do not necessarily provide greater UV protection.

This is useful information for South African shoppers because you don’t have to assume that the most expensive pair in the shop is automatically the best choice.

Instead, compare the actual specifications.

This is a range of affordable yet quality fashion sunglasses.

Does lens material matter?

Yes.

Sunglass lenses can be made from different materials, including glass and various plastics.

Each has different characteristics involving:

Weight
Optical properties
Impact resistance
Scratch resistance
Cost

Modern plastic lens materials can provide useful combinations of lightweight and durability.

The best choice depends on how the sunglasses will be used.

If you are buying sunglasses primarily as a fashion accessory for occasional use, your requirements may be very different from someone who spends hours outdoors every day.

What about scratch-resistant coatings?

Scratch-resistant coatings can be useful because scratched lenses can become irritating and affect visual clarity.

However, scratch-resistant does not mean scratch-proof.

Even good-quality sunglasses should be treated carefully.

Avoid placing the lenses directly onto hard surfaces and use a suitable case when you’re not wearing them.

Cleaning the lenses with an appropriate lens cloth is also preferable to repeatedly rubbing them with clothing that may contain dust or grit.

What about anti-reflective coatings?

Anti-reflective coatings are more commonly associated with prescription eyewear, but they can also be relevant to some sunglasses.

They are designed to reduce reflections from the lens surfaces.

Whether this is worth paying extra for depends on the particular sunglasses and how you use them.

Don’t assume that every additional coating is essential.

Sunglasses for driving

Driving presents some additional considerations.

You want sunglasses that reduce uncomfortable brightness while still allowing you to see clearly and distinguish important visual information.

Extremely dark lenses may not be suitable for all driving conditions.

The FDA’s guidance notes that sunglasses intended for driving should meet appropriate requirements relating to optical and visible-light performance, and that sunglasses not meeting such requirements should carry a warning against driving use.

A sensible approach is to choose good-quality sunglasses specifically intended for daytime driving rather than simply selecting the darkest lenses available.

And sunglasses designed for bright daylight should not be used for night driving.

Why frame size matters too

The lenses aren’t the only part of sunglasses that matters.

A larger frame or wraparound design can reduce the amount of sunlight entering around the sides of the glasses.

The FDA notes that larger, wraparound-style frames may provide additional protection because they cover more of the eye area.

That doesn’t mean you need oversized sunglasses.

The important thing is finding a comfortable frame that sits properly and provides reasonable coverage.

How should sunglasses fit?

Even excellent lenses won’t be very useful if the sunglasses are uncomfortable.

Check that:

The frame sits comfortably on your nose.
The temples don’t squeeze your head.
The sunglasses don’t continually slide down.
Your eyelashes don’t constantly touch the lenses.
The lenses provide adequate coverage.
You have a clear field of vision.
The frame doesn’t obstruct your vision.

If you’re buying online, check the manufacturer’s measurements.

Important measurements can include:

Lens width
Bridge width
Temple length

If you already own a comfortable pair, comparing its measurements with a new pair can make online shopping easier.

How can you tell whether sunglasses are good quality?

Price alone isn’t a reliable test.

Instead, look at several factors.

1. UV protection

This should be your first consideration.

Look for a clear UV400 or 100% UV protection specification.

2. Optical quality

Look through the lenses at straight lines or edges.

Poor-quality lenses can sometimes introduce visual distortion.

3. Frame construction

Check whether hinges, arms, and other components feel reasonably solid.

4. Comfort

A pair that looks great but continually slips or pinches isn’t a good everyday choice.

5. Intended use

Choose lenses appropriate to how you actually intend to use them.

6. Warranty and returns

If buying online, check the retailer’s return policy and warranty before purchasing.

Are cheap sunglasses safe?

Cheap sunglasses aren’t automatically bad.

A relatively inexpensive pair can provide good UV protection if the manufacturer clearly specifies appropriate protection and the lenses are of reasonable optical quality.

The problem is buying sunglasses based entirely on appearance without knowing what the lenses provide.

A R200 pair with verified UV protection may be a better choice than a much more expensive pair with unclear specifications.

The label and specifications matter more than the price tag alone.

What should South Africans look for when buying sunglasses?

South Africa receives substantial sunlight, and UV exposure isn’t limited to summer holidays.

That makes sunglasses a useful everyday accessory rather than something that only needs to come out when you’re going to the beach.

When shopping, look for:

UV protection: UV400 or 100% UV protection.

Suitable tint: Choose a colour and darkness that are comfortable for your normal environment.

Polarisation: Consider it if reflected glare is a problem.

Good fit: Sunglasses should sit securely without causing discomfort.

Adequate coverage: Larger or wraparound designs can reduce light entering around the sides.

Good optical quality: Avoid lenses that noticeably distort straight lines.

Appropriate use: Make sure the sunglasses are suitable for activities such as driving if that is how you intend to use them.

A simple sunglasses buying checklist

Before buying, ask these questions:

UV protection

Do they clearly state UV400 or 100% UV protection?

Polarisation

Are they polarised, and do they still provide UV protection?

Lens colour

Is the tint appropriate for how I’ll use them?

Fit

Are they comfortable and secure?

Optical quality

Can I see clearly through the lenses without noticeable distortion?

Frame

Does the frame provide reasonable coverage and feel well made?

Price

Am I paying for useful features, or primarily for the brand name?

Don’t confuse fashion with protection

Sunglasses can be an important part of your personal style.

Frame shape, colour, lens tint and brand can all influence how they look.

But those characteristics shouldn’t distract from the most important consideration: whether the sunglasses provide appropriate UV protection.

A fashionable pair that doesn’t clearly provide UV protection isn’t necessarily a good purchase simply because it looks good.

Conversely, you don’t necessarily need a luxury brand to get useful protection.

The ideal pair combines appropriate UV protection, good optical quality, comfortable fit and a style you enjoy wearing.

Final thoughts

Understanding sunglasses doesn’t have to be complicated.

The key points are surprisingly simple:

Dark lenses aren’t automatically better.
UV protection and lens colour are different things.
UV400 or 100% UV protection is an important specification to look for.
Polarisation helps with glare but doesn’t replace UV protection.
Lens colour should be chosen according to your needs and comfort.
A higher price doesn’t automatically mean better UV protection.
Fit, coverage and optical quality also matter.

Once you understand these differences, buying sunglasses becomes much easier.

Instead of choosing a pair purely because you like the frame, you can make a decision based on protection, performance, comfort and style.