When shopping for sunglasses, it is easy to fall for labels, sleek frames and the promise of premium quality. But price doesn't always equal performance. Some affordable pairs of sunglasses may offer solid UV protection, while others at ten times the price offer aesthetics rather than function. With prices ranging from $10 to $500, it is fair to ask if expensive sunglasses are actually worth the investment or are you just paying for the logo? Let us help you decide your next pair of quality worthy sunnies.
Lens Quality: The Real MVP
The lens is where high-end sunglasses truly shine and where cheap ones often fall short. Premium sunglasses typically offer 100% UVA and UVB protection, which is essential for long term-eye health. Some budget sunglasses can claim to be UV protective but dont meet the international standards, meaning your eyes may still be exposed to harmful rays.
On top of UV protection there are polarized lenses, which often increases the price tag of a pair of shades. Polarized lenses serve the purpose of reducing glare from surfaces like water, roads or snow which make them very beneficial when driving, playing sports or beach days! At SUHU we have sunglasses that ooze style and offer polarised lenses, from Mr Ben Matte Black Smoke, Kingfisher Blue Smoked, Riz Black Marble and many more. Polarized lenses are a must have as they reduce eye strain and make colours pop. Cheaper sunglasses rarely offer the real experience of polarization, but when they do, it may distort vision or wear off over time. So if you are looking for polarized lenses, it is important to look for higher quality and pricier sunnies.
Durability: Will They Last Long?
Durability is the most obvious functionality where we can see how expensive sunglasses can outlast and perform better than cheaper sunglasses. Higher end sunnies are usually built with stronger and more resilient materials. These materials often resist bending, cracking and wear and tear. When manufacturing budget sunglasses they often use low-grade plastic which has no durability and often breaks easily. The lenses of budget sunglasses may also become scratched faster and anti-glare coating layers often wear off with time. So if you are someone who wears their glasses all day long –investing in a more durable and expensive pair can save you money (and frustration) in the long run.
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Comfort & Fit
Yes, lens quality and durability are often the main focal point when buying your shades but comfort and fit are just as important, especially when you wear your sunglasses all day long. No one wants their sunglasses to always slip down their nose and place unnecessary pressure on their temples.
Sun Hunters sunglasses are designed with comfort in mind. Features like lightweight materials, smooth nose pads and flexible hinges help them stay in place and feel comfortable. All of our sunglasses will keep you comfortable but for ultimate comfort we suggest our Jimmy Who, Olas and MP collections for the ultimate lightweight and comfortable sunnies. These details may seem small but can make a huge difference.
Often Cheaper and more budget friendly shades do not prioritise comfort. They can be heavy and unbalanced or start to pinch after a short while. Yes you save money but at the expense of comfortability.
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When it comes to sunnies, quality does matter. With Sun Hunters, you don’t have to choose between styles and standard–you get both. Shop our range of durable, stylish and protective sunglasses and see the difference for yourself.
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