Many people buy sunglasses merely depending on the price or current fashion, without considering what they intend to use them for (other than the obvious). Although there are many designer brands such as Oakley, Dolce and Gabbana, Bloc, Quiksilver, Bolle, Armani, Spy and Electric sunglasses, there is nothing wrong with the cheaper designs provided certain guidelines are followed.

Firstly, bear in mind that sunglasses, cheap or expensive, should comply with certain standards with regard to eye safety. These standards carry different labels depending on the country. In Europe you need to check for EN 1836:2005, in the US the standard is ANSI Z80.3-1972 and Australia AS1067. Basically, go by the amount of UV protection the glasses give you rather than he price.

Sunglasses should protect against 100% of UV rays and also filter out UVA, UVB and UVC as well. You should also remember that irrespective of the colour or darkness of the lens, it is actually the clear outer coating that filters the rays and not the colour.

It’s possible you have an everyday pair of sunglasses anyway and you know you need a different pair for driving, for fishing, for golf, water sports, mountaineering, or perhaps for cycling for example. Many people don’t consider the reason, but you should as the colour of the lenses and construction of the sunglasses may affect your vision in dissimilar ways. The proposed use of your glasses is probably why some sunglasses come with interchangeable lenses such as the Birdz Hawk sunglasses kits.

For instance, some tints can lead to colour distortion that can affect driving safety. Driving glasses should help keep you alert and your eyes comfortable without causing any eye-strain that may lead to headaches. Look for a pair with polarised grey lenses as grey is neutral and would not affect contrast or distort any colours.

If you are looking for a pair of sunglasses for cycling, you really need a tougher lens because of the increased airflow to the face. Don’t forget your peripheral vision is also susceptible and you may like to consider the fit of the helmet with the glasses. If you are a golfer, try yellow lenses as it enhances contrast and depth perception.

Some sports demand particular elements for sunglasses. For instance, for mountaineering and other altitude sports one needs to consider exceptionally bright conditions as well as the high altitudes. Altitude sports demand a category 4 lens that takes these conditions into account. Glasses or goggles required for water sports such a surfing or kayaking etc., should be shatter-proof, should fog resistant, have a nose cushion, be buoyant and have a means of fixing such as a strap. For example, Electric and Oakley have a respectable range of appropriate goggles and sunglasses.

In summary, think about the colour of the lenses and other considerations in relation to the intended use of your glasses as well as getting the best UV protection.