The Best Cat-Eye Sunglasses

Buying Guide

If you’re going for a glamorous look, cat-eye sunglasses should definitely be at the top of your accessories shopping list. They look classic and alluring, and can turn a ho-hum outfit into something special. However, when you’re buying sunglasses of any kind, there are a number of things to consider. While style is certainly one of them, it’s important to ensure the sunglasses will protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.

There are several different types of sunglasses, so decide which option is best for your needs. Casual sunglasses are the most common. These are everyday sunglasses to wear while doing regular activities like driving to work, playing with your kids at the park or going for a walk. These types of cat-eye sunglasses offer great protection, but can’t handle intense activities.

Sport sunglasses are for those who love hiking, running, biking and other fast-paced adventures. For these types of sunglasses, it’s important to have high-grip nose pads as well as temple ends, so the glasses don’t slip off your face — even when you’re sweating. There are also special sunglasses for people who spend a lot of time outside in snowy climates. The light bouncing off white snow can be extra-intense, and requires specially designed sunglasses to protect your eyes.

You’ll also need to consider what type of lens is best for your cat-eye sunglasses. Polarized lenses are designed to reduce glare, so it’s helpful for people who enjoy water sports, swimming or going to the beach. Keep in mind that polarized lenses can sometimes react with certain windshield tints and create blind spots, so you may need a different type of lens for driving. Photochromic lenses are designed to adjust to changing light conditions, so they get lighter on dull days and darker on bright days. Interchangeable lenses are ideal for people who like to change their lenses based on their activity or outfit choice.

• What kind of tint should you get on your cat-eye sunglasses? This is an important decision to make, as it effects how you see contrast and certain colors. Dark colors, such as brown-, gray- or green-tinted sunglasses are ideal for most outdoor activities as they reduce eye strain. Keep in mind that brown lenses may distort some colors. Lighter tints, such as yellow, gold, amber and rose, are better for low-level light conditions. They provide good depth perception and enhance contrast.
• Another factor to check before you buy your cat-eye sunglasses is the level of visible light transmission (VLT). If you’re often in bright and sunny conditions, then you need a VLT of 0-19%. For all-purpose use, choose 20-40% VLT. If you’re often in overcast conditions, then you need a VLT of over 40%.
• The type of coating you need will depend on the types of activities you do while wearing sunglasses. For example, if you frequently wear your sunglasses in the pool, then you may want to go with hydrophobic coating, which repels water. Anti-fog coating is best for humid climates while anti-scratch coating is best for improving durability.