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Did you know sunglasses should be worn during every season? Yes, even winter! Sunglasses play a vital role in maintaining eye health so you’ll want to make sure you have a pair at your disposal. If you’re like myself, then I have every intention to wear sunglasses, but I’ve had a hard time finding places to buy a prescription pair. There’s no lack of retailers, but it can be tiresome to browse through each to see if they are reputable — and whether they have options that meet my needs and budget. That said, I’ve scoured the internet for sunglasses and came up with a comprehensive list of the best places to find sunglasses online. You may have heard of some of the retailers already like Zenni Optical or Eyebuydirect, but there are many more out there to choose from below.
How to choose the best place to buy sunglasses online
UV Protection
People wear sunglasses to protect their eyes from the sun's harmful rays. You want to make sure yours have UV protection. UV400 is a term given to lenses that filter wavelengths up to 400 nanometers, which equates to nearly 100% of UVA and UVB rays. “When shopping for sunglasses, especially online, check the product details to see whether the lenses offer UV400 protection, or protection from nearly 100% UVA and UVB rays,” says Ashley Brissette, MD, founder of Daily Practice and assistant professor of Ophthalmology at Weill Cornell Medicine.
Coverage
Aside from protecting your eyes from the negative effects of sun exposure, there’s a cosmetic benefit to wearing sunglasses. “Sun exposure can cause dark circles and wrinkles in the delicate skin around your eyes,” says Brissette. “Wearing sunglasses that effectively cover your eyes and the surrounding area can help reduce the risk of sun damage and premature aging.”
Comfort
If you’re going to spend money on them , then you want them to fit comfortably. “When shopping for sunglasses online, use your measurements and compare them to the frame measurements provided in the website product description,” says Brissette. “This can give you a good idea of how the sunglasses will rest on your face.”
Our top picks for best place to buy sunglasses
Best place to buy sunglasses on a budget: Dime Optics
Not looking to drop a few hundred dollars on a new pair of sunglasses? Dime Optics is home to a number of pairs, nearly all of which fall below $35. Whether you’re looking for polarized lenses or celebrity collaborations, you’ll find plenty of options. Although you can’t customize these sunglasses to have your prescription, they provide 100 percent UV protection and are designed to suit a variety of face shapes and sizes.
Good to know:
- Shipping fee: Free shipping on orders over $20
- Return policy: 30 days
- Virtual Try On: No
- Price Range: $15-35
What we like:
- Variety of styles
- Unisex
- Give back program
What we don’t like:
- No prescription available
The bottom line:
Dime Optics is a budget-friendly option for those looking for non-prescription, stylish sunglasses in a wide assortment of styles and colors. Plus, there’s a one-year warranty so you can feel secure.
Dime Optics
Dime Optics is a budget-friendly option for those looking for non-prescription, stylish sunglasses in a wide assortment of styles and colors. Plus, there’s a one-year warranty so you can feel secure.
Best place to buy classic sunglasses: Nectar Sunglasses
Nectar is home to the quintessential pair of sunglasses. Using the face shape guide, you can find a pair that flatters your specific features while browsing through pairs based on lifestyle and activity. There’s the option to choose a color for your frame and lens plus the opportunity to view the glasses in 3D so you know what to expect when they arrive. As for the frames, they’re made from renewable materials so you can feel good about wearing them while helping care for the environment.
Specifications:
- Shipping fee: Free shipping on orders over $75
- Return policy: 10 days
- Virtual Try On: Yes
- Price Range: $49-59
What we like:
- Prescriptions available
- Lifetime warranty
- Numerous styles
What we don’t like:
- No virtual try-on
The bottom line:
Nectar Sunglasses offers men’s and women’s sunglasses in a variety of styles for active and sedentary lifestyles. With the option to add a prescription, most individuals will find a classic pair they’ll love.
Nectar Sunglasses
Nectar Sunglasses offers men’s and women’s sunglasses in a variety of styles for active and sedentary lifestyles. With the option to add a prescription, most individuals will find a classic pair they’ll love.
Best place to buy affordable prescription sunglasses: Zenni Optical
As someone who’s out in the sun nearly every day, I’ve searched far and wide for prescription glasses. Zenni has over a thousand options for any type of sunglasses wearer, whether you’re looking for a foldable pair or rounded frames. Plus, once you’ve uploaded your prescription and pupillary distance, you can have it saved in your profile for easy access next time. They make finding a pair of prescription glasses easy and stress-free while offering different pairs at a variety of prices.
Specifications:
- Shipping fee: $10
- Return policy: 14 days
- Virtual Try On: Yes
- Price Range: $7-$30+
What we like:
- Affordable, low prices
- Numerous styles
- Ability to add pupillary distance
What we don’t like:
- Expensive shipping
The bottom line:
Zenni Optical offers prescription sunglasses at low prices for men, women, and kids. The virtual try-on feature gives you the chance to see how you’d look in them prior to purchase.
Zenni Optical
Zenni Optical offers prescription sunglasses at low prices for men, women, and kids. The virtual try-on feature gives you the chance to see how you’d look in them prior to purchase.
Best place to buy designer sunglasses: GlassesUSA
Looking to splurge on a fancy pair of sunglasses? At many retailers, the most expensive sunglasses come from popular name brands like Prada, Ray-Ban, Coach, Michael Kors, and Versace. There’s the option to browse the website based on brand, so you can narrow down options to include only designer picks if that’s something you’re interested in. GlassesUSA has a live try-on feature where you can use the video camera on your smart device to see how you’d look. This is a great way to make sure you like how they look on you before spending a few hundred dollars.
Specifications:
- Shipping fee: Free
- Return policy: 14-day returns
- Virtual Try On: Yes
- Price Range: $30-$780+
What we like:
- Prescription sunglasses available
- Numerous name brands
- Money-back guarantee
What we don’t like:
- Can’t adjust frame size
The bottom line:
GlassesUSA has over 20 different designer brands to sort through when searching for a pair of sunglasses. Not sure which to pick? Use the “similar” button to see what other styles from the brand and others you may like.
GlassesUSA
GlassesUSA has over 20 different designer brands to sort through when searching for a pair of sunglasses. Not sure which to pick? Use the “similar” button to see what other styles from the brand and others you may like.
Time Shopping exclusive discount:
40% off designer frames for eyeglasses and sunglasses + free shipping. Excluding: Ray-Ban, Oakley, Costa Del Mar and Persol.
Promo Code: TIME40
Expiration date: 3/31/2024
Best place to buy sunglasses for sports: Revo
Whether you play golf, soccer, or go snowboarding, you’ll benefit from wearing sunglasses. Revo’s high-grade technology provides optimal protection and fit. Its oleophobic coat means it’ll remain free from oils and fingerprints and its mirror layers keep the picture clear regardless of the weather. Choose from blue water, evergreen, graphite, terra, champagne, drive, and spectra styles, each designed to cater to a different environments.
Specifications:
- Shipping fee: Free shipping on orders over $150
- Return policy: 30 days
- Virtual Try On: No
- Price Range: $229-$400
What we like:
- Categorized by sport
- Prescriptions available
- Numerous collections
What we don’t like:
- Can be expensive
The bottom line:
Revo has sunglasses for outdoorsy and active individuals. They’re pricey, but the durable construction makes them a worthy investment for those sports players who need prescription eye protection.
Revo
Revo has sunglasses for outdoorsy and active individuals. They’re pricey, but the durable construction makes them a worthy investment for those sports players who need prescription eye protection.
Best place to buy polarized sunglasses: Eyebuydirect
Polarized glasses have become popular since they can reduce light and prevent glare and eyestrain. Eyebuydirect has hopped on this trend and has an entire section dedicated to polarized sunglasses. They’re also anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, and UV protective. Choose from non-prescription and prescription options and use the virtual try-on feature to see how they’d frame your face before adding them to your cart. Shopping tip: Eyebuydirect also made our list of the best places to buy glasses online.
Specifications:
- Shipping fee: Free for orders over $119
- Return policy: 14-days
- Virtual Try On: Yes
- Price Range: $6-$400+
What we like:
- Budget and high-end options
- Vision insurance
- 24/7 customer service
What we don’t like:
- Numerous upcharges
The bottom line:
Eyebuydirect has an entire section dedicated to polarized sunglasses and offers affordable and higher-end options to suit all budgets without sacrificing quality.
Eyebuydirect
Eyebuydirect has an entire section dedicated to polarized sunglasses and offers affordable and higher-end options to suit all budgets without sacrificing quality.
Best place to buy customized sunglasses: Giant Vintage
In terms of customization, Giant Vintage has a huge collection of sunglasses which can be chosen based on style, decade, and color. If you’re looking for an ‘80s-style pair of sunglasses, you can scroll through numerous iterations. You can’t customize the sunglasses in terms of your prescription or color, but a wide variety of colors and sizes are available, so it’s essentially a customizable experience.
Specifications:
- Shipping fee: $4.50
- Return policy: No returns (with the exception of damaged items)
- Virtual Try On: No
- Price Range: $22-30
What we like:
- Styles from different decades
- Variety of colors
- Fashion forward
What we don’t like:
- No prescriptions available
The bottom line:
Giant Vintage is a fashion-forward retailer with a host of options when it comes to finding the best sunglasses to suit your personal style and preferences.
Giant Vintage
Giant Vintage is a fashion-forward retailer with a host of options when it comes to finding the best sunglasses to suit your personal style and preferences.
Best on sunglass retailer on Amazon: SOJOS
Amazon is home to essentially anything and everything, including sunglasses. SOJOS has a number of them in a variety of styles and colors. Each pair is made from high quality plastic and has UV-protected lenses to prevent unwanted sun exposure and damage. You won’t be able to get a prescription in these, but these are great everyday sunglasses for those not looking to spend a fortune.
Specifications:
- Shipping fee: Free shipping with Amazon Prime
- Return policy: 50-days
- Virtual Try On: No
- Price Range: $15-$30
What we like:
- Budget-friendly
- Polarized options available
- Available in a variety of styles and colors
What we don’t like:
- No prescriptions available
The bottom line:
SOJOS is good if you need sunglasses in a pinch for a last minute vacation or outdoor event. The budget-friendly options make them a fan-favorite and they can arrive in just a few days.
SOJOS
SOJOS is good if you need sunglasses in a pinch for a last minute vacation or outdoor event. The budget-friendly options make them a fan-favorite and they can arrive in just a few days.
Best place to find a range of sunglass styles: Hubble Contacts
Although Hubble has the word “contacts” in the name, they don’t only carry contacts. The brand is actually home to a variety of prescription sunglasses capped at $98 each—so you can be stylish without spending hundreds. You’ll find numerous frame styles and colors for different outfits whether you choose galactic tortoise or champagne crystal. The brand offers seven-day customer care service so you can receive assistance almost immediately. (If this reminds you that you do need new lenses, check out our list of the best places to buy contacts online.)
Specifications:
- Shipping fee: Free
- Return policy: 14 days
- Virtual Try On: No
- Price Range: $98
What we like:
- Polarized lenses
- Numerous styles
- Under $100
What we don’t like:
- Prescription sunglasses only
The bottom line:
Hubble Contacts has a number of sunglasses to choose from, whether you’re looking for solid frames or bolder patterns.
Hubble Contacts
Hubble Contacts has a number of sunglasses to choose from, whether you’re looking for solid frames or bolder patterns.
Best place to buy sustainable sunglasses: TIJN Eyewear
Sustainable brands have gained popularity over the years and TIJN Eyewear has a plethora of offerings using low-plastic and low-carbon materials. The brand's eco-friendly glasses are made from 97 percent biodegradable materials and titanium with corrosion resistance so they can remain durable for even longer. You can add a prescription to some pairs of sunglasses, but it’s not required to purchase.
Specifications:
- Shipping fee: Free shipping on orders over $60
- Return policy: 30 days after receipt
- Virtual Try On: No
- Price Range: $90-$130
What we like:
- Prescriptions available
- Can customize certain pairs
- Numerous colors
What we don’t like:
- Limited styles
The bottom line:
TIJN Eyewear has an entire collection filled with eco-friendly sunglasses made from recyclable materials so you can feel good about what you’re putting on your face when stepping outside.
TIJN Eyewear
TIJN Eyewear has an entire collection filled with eco-friendly sunglasses made from recyclable materials so you can feel good about what you’re putting on your face when stepping outside.
How we selected the best places to buy sunglasses
To find the best places to buy sunglasses online, we researched different brands on the market and analyzed several based on first-person testing, expert insight, and customer reviews. Our list includes brands with a variety of styles and price points.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How much should you spend on a good pair of sunglasses?
There’s a common misconception that good sunglasses must be expensive. However, the price tag isn’t always an accurate reflection of sunglasses' quality and protection. “Rather than focusing on how expensive or inexpensive a pair of sunglasses is, look for features like UV protection, lens technology, and frame materials,” says Jimmy Sodachanh, optician at AllAboutVision. “Sure, you can get these characteristics in a $300 pair of sunglasses, but you can also find quality sunglasses for $25 or less.”
Brissette suggests looking at the material and the quality of the lenses as something to invest in. “Choosing high-quality lenses or more durable frames may cost more, but can offer better longevity for your investment,” she says.
Is it good to buy sunglasses online?
As long as you’re purchasing eyewear from an authentic retailer, doing so online is often a great option. “Whether it’s better to buy online versus in-store often comes down to personal preference,” says Brissette. “Shopping in-store allows you to try on various styles and experience different lens technologies. On the other hand, shopping online may give you access to more products than what the retailer carries in the store.”
That said, however you choose to shop, Brisette advises purchasing from a trusted vendor, as not all sunglass lenses are created equal.
Is there any reason to buy expensive sunglasses?
From a practical standpoint, not really. However, if you care about fashion, then spending a few hundred dollars on a pair of sunglasses might be valuable. “We tend to think of sunglasses as a fashion item, so when we splurge on sunglasses we are buying a luxurious and stylish accessory, not necessarily a pair of glasses with better optics,” says Sodachanh. “That said, as mentioned before, you have to make sure you are buying from a reputable seller to make sure you're getting a high quality pair.”
How do you know if sunglasses are good quality?
To find good quality sunglasses, Brissette says to make sure they have suitable UV protection, coverage for the area surrounding your eyes, and that they’re comfortable.
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