How to Choose the Perfect Pair of Sunglasses: A Simple Guide

 

The right sunglasses should protect your eyes, fit comfortably, and make you feel pretty darn good wearing them.

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Let's be honest, shopping for sunglasses sounds easy.

Walk into a store. Try on a few pairs. Find the ones that make you look like a movie star. Done.

Except... somehow you end up trying on 37 pairs, questioning your entire face shape, and wondering why one pair makes you look effortlessly cool while another makes you look like you're about to sell someone timeshares.

We've been there. 😎

The good news is that choosing the right sunglasses doesn't have to be complicated.

The perfect pair comes down to a few important things: UV protection, fit, lens quality, frame shape, comfort, and your personal style.

Let's break it down.

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What Should You Look for When Buying Sunglasses?

Before we get into face shapes and frame colours, let's start with the things that actually matter.

When shopping for sunglasses, look for:

• 100% UV protection

• A comfortable, secure fit

• Lenses appropriate for how you'll use them

• A frame size that suits your face

• Good optical clarity

• A style you actually like

• Quality construction

And remember:

Sunglasses aren't just a fashion accessory. They're also there to protect your eyes from the sun.

So yes, looking fabulous is important.

But let's protect those eyeballs while we're at it.

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1. Look for 100% UV Protection

This is the big one.

When shopping for sunglasses, look for lenses that provide 100% UV protection, often labelled UV400.

UV400 sunglasses are designed to block ultraviolet radiation up to 400 nanometres, including UVA and UVB rays.

And here's an important point:

Dark lenses don't automatically mean better UV protection.

A pair of very dark sunglasses without adequate UV protection isn't necessarily doing your eyes any favours.

So don't choose sunglasses based solely on how dark or mysterious the lenses look.

Check the UV protection.

Your eyes will appreciate it.

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2. Polarized vs. UV Protection: What's the Difference?

This one causes plenty of confusion.

Polarization and UV protection aren't the same thing.

UV protection helps protect your eyes from ultraviolet radiation.

Polarization is designed to reduce certain types of glare, particularly reflected glare from surfaces such as water, roads and snow.

So polarized lenses can be fantastic for:

• Driving

• Boating

• Fishing

• Beach days

• Skiing

• Outdoor sports

• Bright, reflective environments

But don't assume that “polarized” automatically means “100% UV protected.”

Look for both.

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3. Think About How You'll Use Your Sunglasses

The best sunglasses for someone who spends every weekend on a boat may not be the best sunglasses for someone who spends their Saturday wandering around downtown.

Think about your lifestyle.

🚗 Driving

Look for comfortable frames and lenses that help you see clearly in bright conditions.

Polarized lenses can reduce certain types of reflected glare, although they may interact differently with some vehicle displays.

🏖️ Beach & Water

Polarized lenses can be particularly useful around water because they can reduce reflected glare.

And don't forget the sunscreen.

Somehow it always finds its way onto your sunglasses.

🎿 Skiing & Snow Sports

Snow can be incredibly bright because of reflected sunlight.

Look for appropriate UV protection and a frame that fits comfortably with your other gear.

🥾 Hiking & Outdoor Adventures

Comfort matters.

So does durability.

You'll want sunglasses that stay put when you're moving around rather than sliding down your nose every five minutes.

👟 Everyday Wear

This is where you can have some fun.

Pick something comfortable, versatile and very, very you.

4. Find the Right Sunglasses for Your Face Shape

You've probably heard the classic advice:

Round face? Wear square frames.

Square face? Wear round frames.

And there's some truth to it.

But here's the thing:

There are no sunglasses police.

You don't have to follow the rules.

Face shape is simply a useful starting point if you're not sure what to try.

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Sunglasses for a Round Face

Round faces tend to have softer angles and a similar width and length.

Angular frames can create some nice contrast.

Try:

• Square frames

• Rectangular frames

• Geometric shapes

• Stronger frame lines

The result can add a little definition to softer facial features.

But if you love round sunglasses?

Wear the round sunglasses.

You're allowed.

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Sunglasses for a Square Face

Square faces tend to have stronger angles and a more defined jawline.

Round or oval frames can create a softer contrast.

Try:

• Round sunglasses

• Oval frames

• Softer shapes

• Curved designs

Or go completely the other direction and embrace the angles.

Again, there are no rules here.

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Sunglasses for an Oval Face

Oval faces tend to work with a wide variety of frame shapes.

You can experiment with:

• Aviators

• Round frames

• Square frames

• Cat-eye styles

• Geometric designs

• Oversized sunglasses

The main thing to watch is proportion.

You want your sunglasses to complement your face rather than completely take it over.

Unless, of course, that's the look you're going for.

In which case...

Carry on. 😎

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Sunglasses for a Heart-Shaped Face

Heart-shaped faces are generally wider around the forehead and narrower toward the chin.

Sunglasses that add visual balance can work particularly well.

Consider:

• Rounded frames

• Cat-eye styles

• Lighter frames

• Bottom-heavy shapes

• Aviator-style frames

But once again, don't get trapped by the rules.

Try things on.

Your mirror has opinions. Your sunglasses don't.

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Sunglasses for an Oblong or Long Face

If your face is longer than it is wide, frames that add some visual width or height can be worth trying.

Consider:

• Larger frames

• Taller lenses

• Oversized sunglasses

• Stronger frame details

• Statement styles

The goal is generally to create balance and proportion.

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5. Get the Right Fit

This might actually be more important than the shape.

Because even the world's coolest sunglasses aren't cool when they're constantly sliding down your nose.

Your sunglasses should:

• Sit comfortably on your nose

• Stay relatively secure when you move

• Not pinch your temples

• Not dig into your ears

• Feel balanced

• Sit comfortably behind your ears

Try moving your head around.

Look down.

Look up.

Smile.

Talk.

If your sunglasses immediately start making a run for freedom, they're probably not the pair.

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6. Pay Attention to Frame Size

Sunglasses come in all sorts of sizes: Small. Medium. Large. Comically enormous.

The right size depends on your face and the look you're going for.

If you already own sunglasses that fit really well, check the numbers printed on the inside of the frame.

You may see something like: 55 □ 18 140

These measurements generally represent:

• 55 mm — lens width

• 18 mm — bridge width

• 140 mm — temple arm length

These numbers can be helpful when shopping online.

They're not the whole story, though.

Two frames with similar measurements can still fit differently because of their shape and construction.

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7. Choose the Right Lens Colour

Here's where sunglasses get interesting.

Different lens colours can change the way your sunglasses look—and in some cases, how they perform in different environments.

Grey lenses

Grey lenses generally provide a more neutral colour experience and are popular for everyday outdoor use.

Brown or amber lenses

These can enhance contrast and are popular for outdoor activities and changing light conditions.

Green lenses

Green lenses can offer a comfortable balance between colour perception and contrast.

Yellow or orange lenses

These can increase contrast in certain low-light conditions, although they're not generally a replacement for proper sunglasses designed for bright sunlight.

Blue or mirrored lenses

These can create a bold look and are popular in fashion and outdoor eyewear.

The most important thing?

Don't choose a lens colour just because it looks cool.

Think about when and where you'll actually be wearing the sunglasses.

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8. What About Mirrored Sunglasses?

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

They're stylish.

They're also popular for outdoor activities because the reflective coating can reduce the amount of visible light entering the eye.

But here's another important distinction:

A mirror coating doesn't automatically mean UV protection.

Check the manufacturer's specifications to make sure your sunglasses provide the UV protection you need.

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9. Think About Lens Material

Sunglass lenses can be made from different materials, each with their own characteristics.

You may encounter materials such as:

• Glass

• Standard plastic

• Polycarbonate

• High-index materials

Different materials can affect weight, thickness, impact resistance, optical characteristics and cost.

If you're buying prescription sunglasses, your optician can help you choose the material that makes the most sense for your prescription and lifestyle.

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10. Prescription Sunglasses Are Worth Considering

If you wear prescription glasses, you don't have to spend every sunny day squinting through regular sunglasses over top of them.

Prescription sunglasses can combine your vision correction with sun protection.

They're particularly useful if you're outdoors frequently or simply want one pair of sunglasses that does the job properly.

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Depending on your prescription, you may also have options such as:

• Polarized lenses

• Photochromic lenses

• Different lens colours

• Different lens materials

• Various lens coatings

Talk to your optician about what makes sense for your prescription and lifestyle.

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11. Don't Forget About Comfort

This deserves its own section because you're going to be wearing these things on your face.

Possibly for hours.

A pair can look amazing and still be completely wrong for you if they're uncomfortable.

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Pay attention to:

• Nose pressure

• Temple pressure

• Ear pressure

• Frame weight

• Slipping

• Pinching

• Balance

Try wearing them for more than 30 seconds if you can. The “wow, these look cool!” feeling is great.

The “I need to take these off immediately” feeling? Not so much.

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12. Think About Your Personal Style

This is where you get to ignore some of the rules.

Your sunglasses are part of your look.

Maybe you're a classic aviator person.

Maybe you're all about oversized frames.

Maybe you like tiny retro sunglasses.

Maybe your sunglasses are bright pink and can be seen from space.

Go for it.

The best sunglasses are the ones that make you feel good wearing them.

Trends can be fun, but don't feel like you have to chase every one.

Find a pair that feels like you.

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13. Try Them On—and Take a Photo

Here's a simple shopping trick.

When you're trying on sunglasses, take a photo.

Actually, take several.

Why?

Because after you've tried on 15 pairs, your brain starts saying:

“They all look the same.”

They don't.

A photo lets you step back and compare them without standing three inches away from a mirror.

Try different shapes.

Different colours.

Different sizes.

You might discover that the pair you almost didn't try is actually your favourite.

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14. Don't Forget Your Eyebrows

This is a small detail, but it can make a difference.

Different frame shapes interact differently with your eyebrows.

Some frames sit below the brow.

Some overlap it.

Some follow the shape of your brow.

There's no universal right or wrong, but pay attention to how the frame sits on your face.

Try smiling.

Raise your eyebrows.

Make a ridiculous face.

Okay, maybe don't do the last one in the store.

But definitely check how the frames move with your face.

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15. Consider the Bridge

The bridge is the part of the sunglasses that sits across your nose.

If it's too wide, your sunglasses may slide.

Too narrow, and they may pinch.

Some frames have adjustable nose pads, while others use a fixed bridge.

If you're shopping online, compare the bridge measurement with sunglasses you already own that fit comfortably.

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16. Buy for Your Real Life

Here's perhaps the best advice we can give:

Buy the sunglasses you'll actually wear.

If you're constantly outdoors, prioritize comfort and protection.

If you're driving every day, think about glare and visibility.

If you're buying sunglasses primarily for fashion, have fun with the style.

If you travel frequently, consider something durable and easy to carry.

And if you have prescription needs, make sure the lenses are right for your prescription.

The perfect sunglasses aren't necessarily the most expensive pair.

They're the pair that works for you.

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17. How Much Should You Spend on Sunglasses?

There's no magic price.

You can find inexpensive sunglasses that look great, while premium sunglasses can offer more sophisticated materials, construction, lenses or design.

Instead of asking:

“What's the most expensive pair I can afford?”

Ask:

“Does this pair give me the protection, comfort, quality and style I actually want?”

A higher price doesn't automatically guarantee that a pair is right for you.

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18. How Do You Know If Sunglasses Are Good Quality?

Look beyond the logo. Check:

UV protection

Look for clear information about UV protection, ideally 100% UV protection or UV400.

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Frame construction

Check that hinges feel secure and the frame doesn't feel flimsy.

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Lens quality

Look through the lenses and check for obvious distortion or imperfections.

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Fit

They should feel comfortable and stay in place.

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Information from the manufacturer

A reputable seller should be able to tell you what you're actually buying.

If a pair looks great but the seller can't tell you anything about its UV protection?

That's a red flag.

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How to Take Care of Your Sunglasses

So you've found the perfect pair.

They're comfortable.

They look amazing.

They're protecting your eyes.

Now comes the hard part:

Keeping them clean.

Because sunglasses have a strange habit of collecting fingerprints, dust, sunscreen, sweat and mystery goo at an alarming rate.

And somehow the more expensive the sunglasses are, the more fingerprints they seem to attract.

The first rule of sunglasses care?

Don't clean them with your shirt.

We know it's tempting.

Your shirt is right there.

But clothing can collect dust and particles that you don't want rubbing across your lenses.

Instead, use a clean, dedicated microfiber lens cloth.

That's where WowyWipe comes in.

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Meet WowyWipe - The best lens cloth you will ever own!

WowyWipe is a premium 450gsm microfiber lens cloth designed to make everyday lens care ridiculously easy.

WowyWipe™ was created to replace risky, low-quality cleaning cloths with a safer solution. Our premium microfiber cloth lifts oils and smudges without scratching or smudging - it’s machine washable, super durable, and made to last.

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WowyWipe is great for:

🕶️ Sunglasses
👓 Eyeglasses
📷 Camera lenses
📱 Smartphone screens
💻 Tablets
🔭 Binoculars
🎿 Ski goggles

And because it's machine washable, you can keep it fresh and ready for your next sunny adventure.

Your sunglasses deserve better than your T-shirt.

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How Do You Clean Sunglasses Without Scratching Them?

For everyday smudges, start with a clean microfiber cloth such as WowyWipe.

Use gentle pressure and let the microfiber do the work.

If your sunglasses are covered in dust, grit or other debris, avoid aggressively rubbing the surface.

Instead, remove loose particles first and follow the cleaning recommendations provided by the sunglasses or lens manufacturer.

For heavier grime, use an appropriate lens-safe cleaning solution if recommended.

And whatever you do:

Don't scrub like you're trying to erase a parking ticket.

Your sunglasses are delicate.

Treat them accordingly.

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How Often Should You Clean Your Sunglasses?

Whenever they get dirty.

That's the technical answer.

For most people, a quick wipe whenever fingerprints or smudges appear is enough for everyday maintenance.

If you've spent the day at the beach, hiking, cycling, skiing or doing anything particularly sweaty or dusty, your sunglasses may need a little more attention.

And don't forget the frame and nose pads.

They're part of the sunglasses too.

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Sunglasses Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Cleaning them with your shirt

Convenient? Yes.

Ideal? Not really.

❌ Using paper towels

Paper products can leave lint and may not be appropriate for delicate lens surfaces.

❌ Using household glass cleaner

Your sunglasses aren't your windows.

Use products specifically appropriate for your lenses.

❌ Scrubbing too hard

More pressure doesn't mean better cleaning.

❌ Using a dirty cloth

A dirty lens cloth isn't exactly helping.

Wash your microfiber cloth regularly.

❌ Leaving sunglasses loose in your bag

Keys, coins and sunglasses are not a great combination.

Use a protective case when you're not wearing them.

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The Perfect Sunglasses Checklist

Before you buy, ask yourself:

• Do they provide 100% UV protection?

• Do they fit comfortably?

• Do they stay in place when you move?

• Are they the right size for your face?

• Do you like the frame shape?

• Do you like the colour?

• Are the lenses appropriate for how you'll use them?

• Would polarized lenses be useful for your lifestyle?

• Are the lenses appropriate for your prescription, if applicable?

• Do they feel comfortable after several minutes?

• Can you see clearly through the lenses?

• Will you actually want to wear them?

If you've ticked most of those boxes, congratulations. You may have found the pair.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing Sunglasses

What should I look for when buying sunglasses?

Start with 100% UV protection, then consider fit, comfort, lens quality, frame size, lens type and your personal style.

What is the best UV protection for sunglasses?

Look for sunglasses labelled 100% UV protection or UV400. Darker lenses aren't necessarily better at blocking UV rays.

Are polarized sunglasses better?

Polarized sunglasses can be particularly useful for reducing reflected glare from surfaces such as water and roads. However, polarization and UV protection are different features, so check that your sunglasses provide adequate UV protection as well.

What colour sunglasses are best?

There isn't one universally best lens colour. Grey, brown, green and other lens colours can each have different characteristics. Choose based on your intended use, personal preference and the manufacturer's recommendations.

What sunglasses are best for a round face?

Angular frames, including square and rectangular styles, can create contrast with a rounder face shape. But face shape is only a starting point—try different styles to see what you like.

What sunglasses are best for a square face?

Round and oval frames can provide a softer contrast to stronger facial angles.

What sunglasses are best for an oval face?

Oval faces tend to work well with many different frame shapes. Aviators, round, square, cat-eye and geometric styles can all be worth trying.

How should sunglasses fit?

Sunglasses should sit comfortably on your nose and ears without pinching or sliding excessively. They should stay reasonably secure when you move your head.

Should sunglasses cover your eyebrows?

Not necessarily. Frame position varies by style and personal preference. The important thing is that the sunglasses fit comfortably and look proportionate to your face.

How do I know what size sunglasses I need?

Check the measurements printed on sunglasses you already own that fit well. These typically include lens width, bridge width and temple length. Use those measurements as a starting point when shopping for another pair.

Can I wear polarized sunglasses while driving?

Polarized sunglasses can reduce certain types of glare while driving, but they can sometimes affect the visibility of certain digital displays depending on the vehicle and viewing angle.

How do I clean my sunglasses?

For everyday fingerprints and smudges, use a clean microfiber lens cloth and gentle pressure. For heavier dirt, follow the cleaning instructions from your lens or eyewear manufacturer.

Can I clean sunglasses with a microfiber cloth?

Yes. A clean, high-quality microfiber cloth designed for lenses can be an excellent option for removing everyday fingerprints, oils and smudges.

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Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect pair of sunglasses shouldn't feel like you need to clear your entire afternoon and bring a panel of judges with you. 😎

Start with the important stuff: make sure they protect your eyes from UV, fit comfortably, and have lenses that work for how you'll actually use them.

Then?

Have some fun.

Try the pair you normally wouldn't pick.

Try the oversized ones.

Try the bold colour.

Try the ones that make you look in the mirror and go...

“Okay. I kind of love these.”

Because sunglasses aren't just about protecting your eyes. They're part of your look. They can say a lot about you before you've even said hello.

And once you've found the pair, take care of them.

Keep them in a case when you're not wearing them, don't throw them loose into your bag, and please...

Please don't clean them with your shirt. 😂

Keep a WowyWipe nearby instead.

Because fingerprints happen.

Smudges happen.

Sunscreen? Oh, sunscreen definitely happens.

But squinting through a pair of filthy sunglasses?

That doesn't have to.

Keep 'em clean. Keep 'em clear. And go enjoy the sunshine. 🕶️☀️

Give your sunglasses the Wowy treatment.

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More WowyWipe Lens Care Guides

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How to Clean Your Glasses Without Scratching Them →

A simple guide to safely removing dust, fingerprints, oils and smudges.

How to Choose the Perfect Pair of Glasses →

Everything you need to know about finding the right frames, fit, size and style.

How to Choose the Perfect Pair of Sunglasses →

The perfect pair comes down to a few important things: protection, quality, comfort, & personal style.

How to Measure Your PD at Home →

Not sure what your pupillary distance is? Learn how to measure it yourself.

About WowyWipe: The Premium Microfiber Lens Cloth →

Meet WowyWipe and discover why your glasses deserve better than your T-shirt.

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See the World Clearly.

The perfect sunglasses are out there. Go find them. And when you do?

Keep them clean. Keep them clear. Give them the Wowy treatment.

WowyWipe — The world's best lens cloth. 🕶️💙