4 Steps to Choosing the Right Sunglasses

Sunglasses do two jobs: they protect your eyes, and they're one of the first things people notice about your look. With so many options out there, here's how to choose the right pair in four simple steps.

Step 1: Start with UV protection

The most important job of any pair of sunglasses is blocking harmful UV rays. Look for lenses labelled UV400 or 100% UV protection. UV gets through cloud, so this matters on overcast days too. Remember that a darker lens doesn't mean more protection. Here's what UV400 actually means.

Step 2: Choose a frame shape that suits your face

A simple rule: pick a frame shape that contrasts with your face shape.

• Round face: square or rectangular frames add definition and structure.
• Square face: softer, rounder frames balance a strong jawline.
• Heart-shaped face: frames that are a little wider at the bottom, or lighter frames, balance a wider forehead.
• Oval face: lucky you. Most shapes work, so go with what you like.

Comfort matters as much as looks. The frame should sit level, not pinch behind your ears, and not slide down your nose when you look down.

Step 3: Pick the right lens

• Grey lenses keep colours true and reduce brightness evenly. Great for everyday wear and driving, like our Noir.
• Brown or amber lenses boost contrast, which helps on hazy days.
• Light tints suit overcast days and softer light, like our Latitude.
• Mirror lenses reflect extra light away and look the part on bright beach days. See Aurora, Horizon, Summit and Solace.

Whatever colour you choose, polarised lenses make a big difference by cutting glare off water, roads and cars. Polarised vs non-polarised explained.

Step 4: Match them to the way you live

• Lots of driving? Go polarised with grey lenses. Our guide to driving sunglasses.
• Beach and water? Polarised mirror lenses cut the glare off the sea and sand.
• Active outdoors? Choose a lightweight frame that stays put when you move.
• Everyday city wear? A classic black or clear frame goes with everything.

Every Ombrox pair is polarised. Shop all six styles.