When heading to the beach, one essential accessory that often gets overlooked is a good pair of sunglasses. Beyond being a stylish accessory, sunglasses play a crucial role in protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays and reducing glare from the sun’s reflection off the water and sand.
UV Protection
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause damage to our eyes, leading to conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Sunglasses with proper UV protection are essential for shielding our eyes from these harmful rays. Look for sunglasses labeled with 100% UV protection to ensure adequate coverage.
Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are designed to reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water, making them ideal for beach activities. By filtering out horizontal light waves, polarized sunglasses enhance clarity and reduce eye strain, providing a more comfortable viewing experience.
Lens Material
When choosing sunglasses for the beach, consider the different lens materials available, including polycarbonate, glass, and acrylic. Polycarbonate lenses are lightweight and impact-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Glass lenses offer superior clarity but may be heavier and more prone to shattering. Acrylic lenses are affordable but may scratch easily.
Frame Style
The frame style of sunglasses can impact both their functionality and fashion appeal at the beach. Wrap-around frames provide better coverage and protection from peripheral light, while aviator and wayfarer styles offer a classic look. Choose a frame style that complements your face shape and offers a secure fit for active beach days.
Durability
Beach activities can be rough on sunglasses, so opt for a durable pair that can withstand sand, saltwater, and impact. Look for sunglasses made from sturdy materials such as nylon or TR90, which are lightweight yet durable. Additionally, consider sunglasses with scratch-resistant coatings to maintain clarity and longevity.
Water Resistance
Given the proximity to water, water-resistant sunglasses are a must for the beach. Look for sunglasses with hydrophobic coatings that repel water and prevent water spots. Additionally, adjustable nose pads and non-slip temple grips can help keep sunglasses in place, even when wet.
Best Beach Sunglasses Brands
Ray-Ban
Ray-Ban is synonymous with timeless style and quality craftsmanship. Their beach sunglasses offer a perfect blend of fashion and function, with iconic designs such as the Wayfarer and Aviator.
- Classic Wayfarer: Timeless design with iconic appeal, suitable for both men and women.
- Aviator: Aviator sunglasses exude a cool, retro vibe and offer excellent coverage and protection.
Oakley
Oakley is renowned for its innovative technology and performance-driven designs. Their beach sunglasses feature cutting-edge features such as Prizm lenses and Unobtainium nose pads for enhanced clarity and comfort.
- Holbrook: Combining classic style with modern features, Holbrook sunglasses are perfect for active beachgoers.
- Flak 2.0 XL: Designed for athletes, Flak 2.0 XL sunglasses provide superior clarity and protection during outdoor activities.
Costa Del Mar
Costa Del Mar specializes in sunglasses for water activities, making them perfect for beach use. Their beach sunglasses feature high-quality polarized lenses that reduce glare and enhance visibility on the water.
- Fantail: Featuring Costa’s patented 580 lens technology, Fantail sunglasses offer unparalleled clarity and color enhancement.
- Rincon: With a sleek, sporty design, Rincon sunglasses are ideal for those who enjoy both water sports and beach lounging.
Conclusion
Choosing the best sunglasses for the beach involves considering factors such as UV protection, lens polarization, frame style and durability. When it comes to ensuring your sunglasses are up to the task for beach adventures, don’t overlook the option of replacing lenses with MRY. MRY specializes in replacement lenses for top-tier sunglasses, offering a cost-effective solution that maintains the integrity and performance of your favorite beach eyewear.