Pure Life Glasses
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How to Buy Sunglasses

Finding the right pair of sunglasses isn't just about style — it's about protecting your eyes. This guide walks through what matters when you're shopping, whether you're browsing a high-end boutique or a sidewalk kiosk.

Some Sunglasses Are Cheap In Price Only

A low price tag doesn't automatically mean poor protection. Many affordable sunglasses — including those sold at discount stores and kiosks — can block 100% of UVA and UVB rays if they carry proper labeling. The key is knowing what to look for, not how much you spend.

"I'm willing to pay, you know, a couple hundred dollars to make sure that I get the right pair of glasses."

— Andy Hooper, as reported by Kirstin Cole, CBS New York

But as the research shows, spending hundreds isn't always necessary. The label matters more than the brand name.

Does More Money Mean More Protection?

Not necessarily. Designer brands like Ray-Ban offer excellent lenses and build quality, but the UV-blocking capability itself is often identical to what you'd find in a properly labeled $10 pair. The difference lies in frame materials, lens clarity, polarization, scratch resistance, and brand prestige — not in basic UV shielding.

What you're really paying for at the high end:

From Designer Brands to $10 Kiosk Bargains

The sunglasses market spans a wide range. At one end, luxury houses and established eyewear brands command prices in the hundreds. At the other, mall kiosks and discount retailers offer functional sunglasses for under $10. Both can serve the essential purpose — blocking harmful UV rays — if you check for the right markings.

When evaluating any pair, look for:

For more on UV standards, see our UV Protection guide. For help choosing a style that fits your face, visit the Styles section.