Sunglasses buying guide

Good sunglasses protect your eyes, give comfortable vision in bright light and fit well. Use this checklist when you buy, whether you shop in person or online.

1. UV protection first

Look for UV400 on the label or tag. It means the lens blocks UVA and UVB. A dark lens alone is not proof of protection. Read UV400 sunglasses: what to look for and our UV protection guide.

2. Choose a lens colour for how you use them

Lens colour	What it does
Grey	Reduces brightness without changing colours. A good all-round choice.
Brown	Adds contrast and warmth. Many people like it for driving.
Green	Keeps colours fairly natural with a slight contrast lift.
Gradient (darker on top)	Shades from above while letting you see a dashboard or phone through the lower part.

3. Think about polarized lenses

Polarized lenses cut glare from roads, car bonnets and water. They are useful for drivers. Some screens can look dim through them. See polarized lenses.

4. Darkness for driving

Lens categories run from 0 (very light) to 4 (very dark). Categories 2 and 3 suit most everyday use. Category 4 is too dark for driving.

5. Size, shape and coverage

• Larger or wraparound shapes block more light from the sides and top.
• The frame should sit close to your face without touching your cheeks. Check the size with our frame size guide.
• Pick a shape for your face. See which glasses suit your face shape.

6. If you wear glasses

You can get your prescription in a pair of sunglasses (see prescription sunglasses), or use photochromic lenses that darken outdoors.

7. Check before you pay

• Is UV400 stated, and can the seller confirm it?
• Do the arms and nose pads feel comfortable after a few minutes?
• Are the lenses free of scratches and distortion? Look at a straight line through them and move your head slightly. The line should not bend or wobble.

Next steps

• Browse our sunglasses and women’s sunglasses, or see Ray-Ban styles.
• See sunglasses prices in Pakistan.