I've always loved being outdoors, whether it's hiking, running, or just relaxing on a sunny day. But finding the right sunglasses has always been a challenge. I want something durable, comfortable, and stylish – a tall order, right? I've gone through countless pairs over the years, and I've learned a few things along the way that I want to share with you.
For a while, I was all about looking good. I loved my Oakley Holbrooks. They looked great, and the quality was undeniable. I managed to snag a pair at a discount, which was a definite plus. However, as much as I loved them, I started to realize that maybe spending a lot on sunglasses that I might break or lose wasn't the smartest move, especially considering how active my lifestyle is. That's when I started exploring other options.
I remember one trip where I completely forgot my sunglasses. I ended up stopping at a gas station and grabbing the cheapest pair I could find – some rainbow-colored plastic wayfarers that cost about $10. Honestly, they did the job! They had 100% UVA/UVB protection, which is the most important thing. It made me think, maybe I was overcomplicating things. It's easy to focus on the style and brand, but the primary function of sunglasses is to protect your eyes. Since then, I've become a bit more practical about my choices.
Then I discovered Goodr running glasses. These are fantastic! They're polarized, which reduces glare, and they don't bounce around when I'm running. Plus, they're only around $25-$35, which is a great price point. They aren't going to last forever, but if I lose or break them, it's not the end of the world. I've been really impressed with their performance and value.
I also looked into some other brands that offer a good balance between durability and affordability. I came across Natives and was intrigued by their interchangeable lenses and replacement policy. They’ll replace damaged (not lost) sunglasses for a reasonable fee. While still pricier than the gas station variety, they seemed like a solid investment for something that would last longer and offer more versatility. The ability to replace lenses is a big plus in my book.
One thing that really struck me was a conversation I overheard about the importance of UV protection. Someone mentioned macular degeneration and cataracts and how crucial it is to wear sunglasses that actually block UV rays. Apparently, some sunglasses that claim to offer UV protection don't actually do a good job, and the coating can even wear off over time. Wearing sunglasses that don't block UV rays can be worse than wearing no sunglasses at all because your pupils dilate, letting in even more harmful radiation. I made sure to do my research and find sunglasses that were certified to provide adequate UV protection.
After trying different things, I think I have a better approach to choosing sunglasses. Here's what I consider now:
Recently, I've been exploring rimless glasses frames. I like the minimalist look and how lightweight they are. I found these Krasivyy Rimless Glasses Frame online, and I'm considering getting a pair with prescription lenses. They are lightweight and seem durable.
The Krasivyy Rimless Glasses Frame is made with memory titanium, which is known for its flexibility and resistance to bending. The bright gold color is also very stylish. If you're looking for something ultralight and comfortable, this might be a good option. The rimless design is so trendy, and I can imagine wearing them every day. I'm particularly interested in the memory titanium construction, as I'm hoping it will hold up better than some of the flimsier frames I've tried in the past. Plus, being able to get them with my prescription is a huge bonus!
Here are a few more tips I've picked up along the way: