Sunglasses just might be the most important part of your summer kit.
Hear us out: sunnies play three key roles in your summertime activities. One, they can protect your eyes against UV rays that can cause harm—a helmet for your eyes, if you will. Two, they help you see better. Whether you’re golfing, hiking, or biking, being able to see better is definitely a good thing. Three, they’re part of your look. Sure, it’s a little superficial, but your sunglasses say as much about your personal style as any other accessory or piece of clothing.
You don’t want to pick out new sunglasses without putting a little thought into your purchase, and we don’t blame you. Here at McCoo’s, we encourage you to do your research, ask lots of questions, and try on as many pairs as you need. Here are 4 questions that you should ask yourself on your quest for the perfect shades.
UV, or Not UV?
UV, or not UV—that is the question. Not all sunglasses come with UV protection—and of those that do, not all protect against both UVA and UVB rays. How important is the UV protection to you? Are you willing to spring a few extra bucks to keep your eyes in good shape, or are you counting on a hat or something else to keep the rays at bay?
What’s the Purpose?
Sunglasses are like shoes. You probably have a go-to pair that you wear for your everyday activities, but you also have a few pairs that are reserved for certain sports, plus a pair that you pull out for fancier events.
Like shoes, it’s okay to own more than one pair of sunglasses. When you’re picking up a pair, ask yourself whether you’re looking for cheap shades to stash in your beach bag, serious performers that will keep up with you while you ride, or a casual pair to sport on a patio. Ultimately, the purpose will help you determine what attributes you need and what price point you’re willing to look at.
Do They Feel Good?
Here’s where buying in a bona fide bricks and mortar shop trumps buying online. Your shades might check all your must-have boxes, but if they don’t fit your head, they’re useless. If you’ve ever had a pair pinch the spot behind your ears or slide off the bridge of your nose, you know what we’re talking about.
Try on a few pairs. Make sure that the eye size matches where your eyes are on your head, that the bridge fits just right against your nose without squishing or slipping, and that the temple length is neither too big nor too small for your noggin. Keep trying on pairs until you find your proverbial glass slipper.
How Does the World Look?
From lens tints to lens technology, lenses matter. Some materials will help you see more clearly, while others are more resistant to scratching and ultimate destruction. As with snow goggles, different tints will quite literally change the way you see the world. Contrast, brightness, and depth perception will vary, depending on the tint. Finally, technology like polarized lenses can take your lenses to the next level. The trick is finding the combination that works just right for you.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be; we’re here to help you unite with your perfect pair of sunglasses. Stop by the shop and ask for a hand, and we’ll make sure you find what you’re looking for.