Finding a good pair of sunglasses can be as tough as finding a good pair of jeans. They have to fit just right, they have to be comfortable and protect your eyes, and of course, they have to look good on you. The key to finding the right shades is getting out there and trying as many different styles as you can. Something that will help that process is understanding your face shape and shopping accordingly. Check out this post on finding the best sunglass fit for your face shape to learn what styles work best with your face.
After you narrow down the shape you are looking for, it’s time to figure out what kind of technology you want. Here are some basic guidelines that might help you out:
- 100% UVA and UVB protection is a must. Those $10 sunglasses will do the trick if you left your shades at home but don’t trust those to protect your eyes on the daily. Retina damage is a real thing and the suns harmful rays can leave quite a mark.
- Polarization is a great option but not a must have. Most people think that “polarized” glasses mean better sun protection and that is not the case. Polarization is just an added treatment that reduces glare. If you are by the water on a regular basis, polarized shades might be a good choice for you. Note that some brands offer various levels of polarization.
- “Wrap” style sunglasses will have thicker arms and will offer better protection from both wind and sun than traditional straight sunglasses. If you are the athletic type, you may want to consider a wrap style frame.
- Frame materials vary from brand to brand but for the most part, the ‘active’ style brands that we carry generally use materials like acetate and grilamid. Both are extremely lightweight and strong which is great for people who give their shades a bit of a beating.
Now that you have an idea what to look for, we will break down some of our favorite new sunglasses for the summer 2013 season. Most of these frames are available in other colors so click each photo for more information on that model.
Sporty
Again, for more active lifestyles, a sportier frame will offer great protection and “stay put” a little better than some other styles.
Spy Quanta
With a sleek, lightweight wrap design, the Spy Quanta is the ultimate in vision, fit and comfort. Made of a close to bomb-proof material, Grilamid, and impact resistant polycarbonate lenses, these shades can stand up to it all. Plus, they come with Hytrel comfort nose pads and temple tips so these frames will stay put even during your sweatiest activities.
Spy Carbine
With a fluid design and continuous lens, the Spy Carbine shades are perfect for running, biking and so much more. The built in hinge system flexes perfectly for a great fit and the slightly thicker arm design protects you from both the sun and wind.
Spy General
Lead your troops to success with the hefty General frame from Spy. With a thicker arm design these shades will offer excellent peripheral protection from the sun and wind and the polarized lens blocks out all glare so you get the clearest line of vision.
Classic & Timeless
These frames can look good on just about anybody at all. Classic shapes, cool colors and perfectly sized.
Electric Knoxville
Truly a frame that anyone could wear, the Knoxville is lightweight, stylish and comes in a bazillion different color options. Perfect for guys or girls, this frame is timeless and can party with you on Saturday night and still look great with your work attire on Monday.
Electric Tonette
Another unisex gem from Electric and one of my personal fav’s is by far the Tonette. Very classic shape, clean lines and just enough curve around the bottom to add some serious style. Also available in a slew of killer colors, the Tonette is a must have for any sunglass collection.
Spy Crosstown Haight
One of the flagship frames from their elite Crosstown Collection, the Haight is about as classic and classy as it gets. Constructed from handmade acetate and fully equipped with an anti-reflective inner lens coating, these shades can sit on the shelf with any of the big boys and stand out. Lightweight, strong and oh so stylish. These are also available with Spy’s Happy Lens.
Aviator
Every good sunglass collection needs at least one pair of Aviators. A sleek wire frame makes a big statement while feeling super light and comfortable to wear.
Electric AV1 (and AV1s)
Everybody needs at least one pair of “cop shades” in their personal collection. Aviators offer a style that no other frame can compare to and the AV1 is no exception. Available in 2 sizes so you can find that perfect fit. Super lightweight, 100% UV protection and made in Italy.
Electric Vegus
Even though it’s not spelled the same way, these sunglasses make us think of Las Vegas. Elvis shades had a baby with a pair of aviators and this is what came out of it. Big, bold and full of style, the Vegus Sunglasses from Electric are for the guy (or girl) who is not afraid to stand out.
Oversized
For the bigger faces or heavy hangovers, a good pair of oversized shades can help you hide out in style. Extra sun coverage + massive style = a sweet pair of shades.
Electric Ninety Nine
Part of the Loveless collection and we can see why. Bold lines, big lenses and major style come stock with every pair of Electric Ninety Nines. With a high quality 6-base CR39 lens, handmade acetate frame and 100% UV protection these sunglasses with keep you protected and looking good in a big way.
Electric Captain Ahab
Whether you are hiding from a hangover or the harmful rays of the sun, the Electric Captain Ahab has you covered. This oversized frame is made of the extra tough material Grilamid which is just as lightweight as it is strong. Available in Polarized Level 1 & 2, have a 5 barrel stainless steel optical hinge and are the brainchild of big wave surfer Mark Healey.
Spy Honey
Ladies we did not forget about you. We know the girls love them some oversized shades too! The Honey from Spy reminds us of something Marilyn Monroe may have worn to hide out from the paparazzi. Oversized frame, gorgeous color options and style for day. Honey, you sure are looking good.
New and Super Stylish
A few of the latest and greatest!
Electric Knoxville Union
The brand new update to the always awesome Electric Knoxville, the Union looks like the old school Ray Bans that your parents rocked in the 80’s. Another great option for both guys and girls, the Union comes in several color options (the tort being our favorite).
Electric Mags
Trevor Andrew (aka Trouble Andrew) is back at it again with his brand new signature frame, the Mags. The name was inspired by his younger sister as he set out to make a frame that guys and girls could wear daily. Skating, chilling or partying, the Mags will keep you looking your best.
Electric Tech One
This brand new frame is the perfect blend between a sporty wrap-style frame and a classic street look. Just enough curve to offer a little extra sun protection, without an oversized arm. The Tech One is the perfect frame for the active customer that needs an everyday pair of sunglasses.
That does it for some of our favorite sunglass styles for this summer. Several of these shades come in a slew of options to be sure to click the images to get more info. Time to find yourself a new pair of sunglasses and get this summer started!