Are Expensive Sunglasses Really Worth It? My Personal Take

I've always been a bit of a sunglasses fanatic. I love the way they look, and I definitely appreciate the eye protection. But for years, I bounced back and forth between cheap pairs and the occasional splurge on a designer brand. I always wondered, are the expensive ones *really* worth the extra money?

My Sunglasses Journey: From Cheap to... Less Cheap

For a long time, I was firmly in the "cheap sunglasses" camp. I reasoned that I was likely to lose or break them anyway, so why spend a fortune? I went through countless pairs of $10 sunglasses, replacing them every few months. Then, I realized something: I was constantly buying new ones because they were flimsy and easily damaged.

Then I decided to try a pair of Ray-Bans. I remember thinking $150 was a lot of money for sunglasses back then (this was around 2012). But I took the plunge. And you know what? I had them for almost seven years! The lenses eventually got scratched up enough that I needed a replacement in 2019, but that was still a pretty good run. I realized that I just took much better care of them.

Polarization, UV Protection, and Other Factors

One thing I learned along the way is that not all sunglasses are created equal. I used to think polarization was just a matter of preference, something that helped with glare in bright or snowy conditions. And while that's true, it's also about eye protection. I found out that some cheap sunglasses don't actually block the harmful invisible light from the sun. They just make things darker, which causes your pupils to dilate and let in even more damaging rays. That's not good!

I also considered foldable Ray-Bans. The idea of them being easier to store seemed smart, and it felt like they'd last longer for that reason. But they were still quite an investment, and I wasn't sure if the foldable aspect was worth the price jump.

Finding the Right Balance: Quality and Affordability

After experimenting with different brands, I started to think about the "online only" brands. I've heard good things about SunGod and Melon, and they seem to offer a good middle ground between cheap sunglasses and high-end designer brands. They often have features like polarized lenses and UV protection at a more reasonable price point.

I've also discovered Goodr sunglasses. They are made for running, and they are super comfortable, durable, and come in a ton of colors. They are polarized, offer good protection, and are anti-reflective. You can find them at running stores or outdoors stores, so it's easy to try them on before you buy.

My Solution: Prioritizing Protection and Durability

For me, the sweet spot is finding sunglasses that offer good UV protection, are polarized to reduce glare, and are durable enough to withstand everyday wear and tear. It doesn't necessarily mean spending a fortune, but it does mean doing a little research and being willing to invest a bit more than I used to.

Speaking of investment, I recently needed new reading glasses. I've been exploring the brand Mozaer and came across their selection of best quality reading glasses. I have been looking for something stylish and durable, and the Business Men's Halfrim Photochromic Gray Reading Glasses caught my eye.

I decided to give them a try. I was drawn to the comfortable alloy frame and the photochromic lenses, which adjust to changing light conditions. I also liked the half-rim design, which felt modern and professional. The quality felt great right out of the box. They’ve been perfect for reading and working on the computer. The photochromic feature is a real plus when I'm moving between indoor and outdoor environments.

Practical Tips for Choosing Sunglasses

Here are some things I've learned that can help you choose the right sunglasses for your needs:

• UV Protection: Make sure the sunglasses block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for a label that says "UV400" or "100% UV protection."
• Polarization: Consider polarized lenses to reduce glare, especially if you spend a lot of time near water or snow.
• Durability: Choose sunglasses made from durable materials that can withstand everyday wear and tear.
• Fit and Comfort: Make sure the sunglasses fit comfortably and don't slide down your nose.
• Style: Choose a style that you like and that complements your face shape.

Expensive vs. Cheap Sunglasses: A Quick Comparison

Feature	Expensive Sunglasses	Cheap Sunglasses
UV Protection	Usually excellent	Can be lacking
Polarization	Often included	May not be available
Durability	Generally very durable	Often flimsy and easily broken
Comfort	Usually more comfortable	Can be uncomfortable
Style	Wider range of styles	Limited style options
Price	Higher price point	Lower price point

My Final Thoughts

So, are expensive sunglasses worth it? I think it depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for the best possible eye protection, durability, and style, then spending a little more money on a quality pair of sunglasses is definitely worth it. However, if you're on a tight budget or tend to lose or break sunglasses frequently, then a cheaper pair might be a better option. Just make sure they offer adequate UV protection.

The brand Mozaer offers a range of eyewear options that balance quality and affordability. It's worth checking them out if you're looking for stylish and durable glasses that won't break the bank.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Sunglasses for You

Ultimately, the best sunglasses are the ones that you'll actually wear and that will protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays. Do your research, try on different styles, and find a pair that fits your needs and budget. And remember, taking care of your eyes is always worth the investment!