There’s more to picking up the right sunglasses than just how they look. As temperatures rise in the UAE, we’ve asked Martin Larroque of sunglass brand Maui Jim to give us his top tips on how to choose the right shades. Needless to say, making the right decision could mean a lot more than just being on trend. Read on ...
Think protection
When purchasing sunglasses, one of the most important things to look for is eye protection. Considering the fact that we live in the Middle East, using a good quality sunglasses brand with the utmost lens protection should be an important element in the decision-making process as exposing the eyes to excessive amounts of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes retina sunburn. UV rays can be a factor in causing cataracts, macular degeneration and growths on the eye, including cancer. Without eye protection, by the time you are 60 years old, your eyes will be exposed to as much UV light as is created by a nuclear blast. Another common problem in the Middle East is the vast amounts of glare, which not only cause eye fatigue but also affect clarity of vision. Look for polarised sunglasses to remove glare.
Frames that fit your face shape
It is important that you find a pair of sunglasses that fits you comfortably. Look for frames that grab you securely and fit snugly on your nose and ears, but that don’t pinch or rub. Start by analysing your face shape and try on a variety of sunglass styles, shapes and frame materials to find what looks best on your face. If your face shape is oval, almost any style will look good on you, especially square-shaped frames with gently rounded edges. If your face is round, look for frames that make it appear longer. Minimise the curves and choose styles with a double brow or higher temples to pull the eye upwards. Square faces do well in soft, curvy styles. Diamond and triangular faces look terrific in rimless styles that are oval or have a slight cat-eye.
Make your frames light
Make sure to select lightweight frames as we tend to wear sunglasses longer here in the Middle East than regular users in other parts of the world. If your frame is heavy it might cause headaches.
Colour your lens according to use
Choosing a lens colour should be based on the conditions in which you will wear your sunglasses most often. If you do many outdoor activities, you may need two or three pairs of glasses for optimal vision in a variety of conditions. Different lens colours add to the performance of the lens and provide an array of different looks that cause your eyes to react differently to varying light, making certain colours more suitable for certain activities and conditions.
Use prescribed lenses
If you wear prescription glasses, consider prescription sunglasses because they offer crisper vision than wearing contacts with sunglasses. Following an eye exam, your sunglasses should be made in order to correct blurred vision. You need to make sure the lens you are choosing is suitable to the prescription. Always solicit the help of a qualified optometrist when selecting prescription sunglasses.
Pay attention to customer service and warranty
Sunglasses are long-term purchases, in accordance fact check if the brand you are purchasing provides you warranty and good customer service. You can have a great product, but without service to back it up, it still falls short.
Select your sunglasses according to your lifestyle
When you are buying sunglasses, it is important to make sure they suit your purpose. Try to find impact-resistant lenses and if you are going to use your sunglasses for daily purposes you need to select a warm bronze lens. However, if you are planning to go skiing, and will be exposed to direct sunlight along with light reflected off snow, make sure you select neutral grey lenses and sunglasses with an appropriate frame to avoid any falls.
Don’t follow trends
Aesthetics are often motivating factors, but remember that good sunglasses are about eye protection, your selection shouldn’t only be based on fashion. First decide when and how you wear your sunglasses, then choose lens materials, lens colours and frame styles that offer features suitable for the activities in which you will wear them.
* Martin Larroque is the managing director, Middle East, of Maui Jim.
