7 best polarized, UV-protected sunglasses
Look cool and keep your eyes protected at the same time.
Goodr OG Sunglasses
$undefined
$25.00
To help you find a pair of polarized sunglasses, we asked optometrists and eye experts what key factors to look for when shopping — here’s what they said.
In rounding up a list of polarized sunglasses worth your consideration, we kept the above criteria from experts in mind. We also prioritized options with at least a 4.0-star average rating from at least 1,000 reviews and tried to offer a variety of styles and shapes to appeal to a wide variety of people.
Affordable? Check. Available in lots of fun color combos? You bet. According to Goodr, these sunglasses have a lightweight, grip-coated frame so they won’t slip when you sweat. The lenses are scratch-resistant, polarized and offer UV400 protection. Though experts told us that polarized lenses don’t always have a mirrored finish, these do for an extra bit of fun and style. These sunglasses have a 4.6-star average rating from over 3,350 reviews on Amazon.
Lens width: 53mm | Polarized with UV400: Yes | Frame style: Square
My husband and I are devoted to these unisex lightweight aviators, intended for use when running or working out but also make a great casual style. The frames and lenses are on the larger side, making them a good option for those with wider faces. They also slightly curve around your face to offer more protection from the sun. These sunglasses have polarized lenses and are also available in a polarized mirrored version. Also helpful: The site has a try-on feature allowing you to see what you’ll look like wearing their various styles before you make a purchase.
Lens width: 57mm | Polarized with UV400: Yes | Frame style: Aviator
According to Oakley, these classic black men’s frames are modeled after sunglasses that leading men wore in the 50s and 60s. The polarized lenses offer UV400 protection and the plastic frames are made to be durable and withstand high impact, according to the brand. These sunglasses come in 17 colors and have a 4.5-star average rating from over 3,200 reviews on Amazon.
Lens width: 55mm | Polarized with UV400: Yes | Frame style: Square
These sunglasses, which have a 4.4-star average rating from over 15,820 reviews on Amazon, are ideal for those with narrow faces. The frames are available in 8 different colors — including tortoise, black and clear — and you can choose from polarized or mirrored polarized lenses depending on the frame color you select.
Lens width: 48mm | Polarized with UV400: Yes | Frame style: Round
Made from lightweight, recycled plastic, these sunglasses have a medium frame, which means they’ll work on most people’s faces. They slightly wrap around your face to give your eyes better coverage and come in 10 colors. The polarized lenses help reduce glare and the round shape has a classic vibe. These sunglasses also come with a lifetime warranty and have a 4.7-star average rating from over 1,860 reviews on the Sunski website.
Lens width: 49mm | Polarized with UV400: Yes | Frame style: Round
As the name implies, Knockaround sunglasses have frames made from polycarbonate material intended to withstand a lot of wear and tear, according to the brand. Along with polarized mirrored lenses that offer UV400 protection, the frames have rubber nose pads to prevent slipping during high-intensity activities. These sunglasses have a 4.8-star average rating from over 1,500 reviews on REI.
Lens width: 51mm | Polarized with UV400: Yes | Frame style: Rounded square
Weighing less than 26 grams, these lightweight sunglasses have a shield-style frame to offer maximum eye protection. According to the brand, the frames have an integrated hinge so they won’t pull hair and nose pad grips to help them stay put. The lenses are also polarized and scratch — and shatter-resistant.
Lens width: 129mm total width | Polarized with UV400: Yes | Frame style: Shield
You now know polarized sunglasses that offer UV400 protection are the most protective choice for your eyes, but here are a few other things to keep in mind as you shop.
At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she spoke with an optometrist and two opticians.
Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.
