Sunglasses are easily the most necessary accessory for any sunny day activity. Whether you’re hitting the beach, working out outside, driving in the sun, or anything in between, sunglasses can make everything under the sun a better experience and easier on the eyes. Finding the right pair is key to beating the sun this summer.
What Should You Look For in a Pair of Women's Sunglasses?
Any pair of sunglasses is better than no sunglasses at all, but there can be a big difference between a high-quality pair compared to a cheaper alternative. When shopping for good sunglasses, it’s important to consider a few things.
First off, you’re going to want them to be polarized, which will protect your eyes and reduce glare from the water.
Durability is equally important. You don’t want to spend upwards of $100 on sunglasses that will break on the first drop or scratch easily.
Comfort is also something to think about-- nobody wants to be fiddling with loose sunglasses or trying to adjust uncomfortable ones all day long.
Lastly, of course, you’ll want to select a pair of sunglasses that fit your personal style. Below are ten of the best sunglasses in the game right now.
The 10 Best Women’s Sunglasses Today
#1: Ray Ban Hexagonal Flat Lenses
I may be slightly biased because I own two pairs of these Ray Bans, but these super popular gold-framed sunglasses are lightweight, polarized, comfortable, and perfect for any occasion.
With an ultra-thin design, you’ll barely feel these glasses resting on your nose and the nose pads ensure they won’t slip off. They’re a great all-around pair of sunglasses -- they can be dressed up for a day out on the town, or kept casual for a day on the beach. They’re also available with prescription lenses.
#2: Rockaway Polarized Sunglasses by Kaenon
Called the “Quintessential Kaenon,” The Rockaway is a lightweight medium-large frame with recessed nose pads and Kaenon’s SR-91 lenses.
These are a must-have for long days in and around the water and the SR-91 polarized lenses feature glass-like clarity, featherweight construction, and fierce impact resistance. These are great functional sunglasses that don’t sacrifice style.
#3: Zinger II by Revo
Zinger II takes the original design of best-seller Zinger to the next level with new colors and eco-friendly handmade acetate.
Spring hinges ensure a perfect fit that can adapt to your movements, providing enhanced comfort and durability.
This frame features the “Graphite” lens, perfect for bright, sunny days. It is a polarized gray-based, silver flash mirror-coated lens that enhances color definition and contrast. Revo has a few different specialized lenses, so if this isn’t exactly what you're looking for, definitely check out some of their other options.
#4: Maui Jim Starfish Polarized Sunglasses
A high quality but more expensive option is the Starfish Polarized Sunglasses. Featuring an understated cat eye shape and sloping brow, these glasses have a well-crafted and lightweight style that will protect your eyes from the sun.
They provide crystal clear visibility and vibrant color, and are available with magnification “readers” lenses, making them perfect for everyday wear.
#5: Sunski Strada Sunglasses
These are the perfect sunglasses for the adventurer. The Strada combines elevated metal materials and extra sun protection with a magnetic removable sun blocking system for long days on the slopes, long hikes, and days on the beach. These sunglasses include polarized helio lenses, the removable magnetic center piece, and sun shields for an all-day comfortable fit. They also include a lifetime warranty.
#6: The Catherine by Costa Del Mar
Inspired by its namesake island St. Catherine, the Catherine frames are refined and effortlessly elegant. With soft cat-eye lenses and core-wire temple designs inspired by the waves, the Catherine is great for on-or-off-water adventures.
They are scratch resistant and durable with premium 580 polarized lenses, and provide 100% UV protection. These are versatile sunglasses designed with the spirit of the sea and a life on the water in mind.
#7: Lowdown Slim 2 by Smith
These lenses are on the smaller side, but are also available in a larger size (Lowdown). The bio-based frames have soft rubber nose pads, so they don't slide down when you break a sweat.
They come with your choice of crystal-clear carbonic lenses or Smith's color-boosting ChromaPop. ChromaPop lenses enhance contrast and natural color to make details pop, are smudge and moisture resistant, and have anti-reflective coating that improves clarity and reduces eye strain.
The carbonic lenses offer impact resistance and clear optics, and both options have 100% UV protection.
#8: Quay Sunglasses
Quay offers a wide variety of cheaper alternatives to name-brand sunglasses while still maintaining good quality.
For around $75, you can find just about any sunglasses shape or style you can think of. They have some great functional options that are polarized and sturdy, as well as others that are more fashion-focused and stylish. There’s something for everybody there.
#9: Baker by Krewe
If you’re looking for a more chic and unique pair of sunglasses, Krewe has a ton of different, versatile frames. The Baker sunglasses feature an oversized silhouette constructed with metal and acetate details, and every pair is handcrafted in Krewe’s New Orleans design studio. This is a more expensive option, but each pair does include a “second chances warranty,” meaning that they will grant free replacements for any damaged sunglasses.
#10: Jordan Sunglasses by Diff
The Jordan sunglasses are a timeless and classic look. Effortlessly cool, these are a sleek, cheeky upgrade on the classic aviator. Thicker metal rims around the lenses provide a pop of personality and edge. These are a staple from road trips to city strolls. Diff has a large collection of luxury sunglasses inspired by the hottest trends, silhouettes, and styles. They hold a lot of holiday sales, so watch out for discounts and great deals!
The Bottom Line: Women’s Sunglasses
There’s a huge variety of great sunglasses options for women out there, so it’s just a matter of selecting a pair that fits your personal style and preferences.