Science
The Best Sunglasses for Every Price Range
I once had a professor in college who said the best way not to lose things is to buy an expensive version of them. Pens, umbrellas, sunglasses, and so on. We’re ostensibly more inclined to keep track of and protect our items if they hold a high value.
Time and time again, I have proven this theory to be utter bunk. Know how many pairs of Ray-Bans I’ve left in dive bars? Two. Know how many pairs I’ve left in the Kips Bay AMC movie theater? One. That is too many and even if I deserve to have lost them for being an idiotI sometimes wonder if I should just buy a cheap pair of sunglasses and leave them wherever I please within two weeks of owning them.
But then again, high-end sunglasses are high-end for a reason. They’re built better, the lenses are uniformly clearer (though not always polarized), and they can last forever if you treat them right (always a toss-up; sunglasses are astoundingly easy to sit on accidentally). We took a look for the best sunglasses to suit every price range.
Polarspex Polarized 80's Retro Classic Sunglasses
Polarspex makes one of the internet’s favorite pairs of sunglasses. Amazing customer reviews and a sturdy build quality make these a safe, smart choice.
GAMMA RAY Polarized UV400 Classic Style Sunglasses, 3-Pack
This cheap as hell pack of three will keep you squint-free for ages. They’re comfier than you expect, too.
Ray-Ban RB2132 New Wayfarer Sunglasses
The original fancy sunglasses, and the best. Ray-Ban’s no-frills high-end Wayfarers look the part, and feel amazing when you’re wearing them or just carrying them around.
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses
A higher-end choice from Ray-Ban, these include polarization for a little more dough.
Wood Polarized Retro Style Sunglasses
A chill, relaxed take on the classic sunglasses look. Perfect for poolside lounging.
Obsidian Sunglasses: Polarized Square Frame
These modern and minimalist sunglasses are a hit with Amazon users, and it’s easy to see why.
MVMT Hyde Polarized Rectangular Sunglasses
These slim, striking sunglasses come at a premium, but they look great and are built to last despite a skinny frame.
Walnut Wood Wayfarer Sunglasses with Polarized Lens
Wood sunglasses are eco-friendly while still protecting you from some of nature’s harsher elements.
IALUKU Retro Polarized Sunglasses
These look like something a bad guy in a really violent action movie would wear. I’m in.
FEIDU Retro Polarized Clubmaster Sunglasses
Simply put: the best deal you’ll find online for a pair of good sunglasses. For less than a single Hamilton, you get style and UV protection all in one. A no-brainer even if you LOVE expensive glasses, too.
