How to Choose Sunglasses: Lens, Fit, and Protection Factors

The most important thing to get right when choosing sunglasses is UV protection: look for lenses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, since that is what protects your eyes from sun damage. After that, the right choice depends on how you will use them — driving, sports, or everyday wear — plus how the frames fit your face and whether you need a prescription. Target Optical, for example, sells prescription sunglasses alongside eyeglasses and contact lenses, and notes that prescription lenses are available with 40% off and free shipping on all orders. If you don't need vision correction, non-prescription sunglasses are still worth choosing on the same protection and fit criteria.

Start With UV Protection

UV protection is the one feature you should not compromise on. Sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays reduce the amount of ultraviolet radiation reaching your eyes. Darker lenses are not automatically more protective — a dark tint without UV filtering can actually be worse, because your pupils dilate behind the dark lens and let in more unfiltered light. So check the label for a stated 100% UVA/UVB claim rather than judging by how dark the lens looks.

Match the Lens Type and Tint to Your Use

Different tints and lens types suit different activities. The table below maps common uses to the lens characteristics that tend to work well.

Polarized lenses are worth it when glare is the main problem — driving, fishing, boating, or skiing. They cut reflected light that bounces off flat surfaces. The trade-off: some polarized lenses can make LCD screens (car dashboards, phone displays) harder to read at certain angles, so try before you commit if that matters to you.

Get the Fit Right

Fit affects both comfort and how much light leaks in around the edges.

• Face shape: Generally, frames that contrast with your face shape tend to balance it — angular frames on round faces, rounder frames on angular faces. This is a style guideline, not a rule, so treat it as a starting point.
• Coverage: Larger lenses and wrap-style frames block more light from the sides and above, which helps for driving and outdoor sports.
• Comfort: The frame should sit without pinching the nose or pressing behind the ears, and should not slide when you look down. Nose pads and adjustable temples help here.
• Weight: Lighter frames are easier to wear for long periods, especially if you also wear them while active.

Decide Between Prescription and Non-Prescription

If you already wear glasses or contacts, prescription sunglasses let you see clearly without stacking sunglasses over your regular glasses. Target Optical offers prescription sunglasses as part of its sunglasses selection, and prescription lenses are available with 40% off. If you don't need correction, standard non-prescription sunglasses are the simpler and usually cheaper route. A middle option is fit-over or clip-on styles for people who want to keep using their existing prescription glasses.

Budget and Where to Buy

Price depends mainly on lens features (polarization, prescription, specialty tints) and frame material and brand. Decide which features you actually need before comparing prices, so you don't pay for extras you won't use. Buying online is an option — Target Optical sells sunglasses online and states free shipping on all orders, which removes shipping cost from the comparison. When buying online, check the return policy and whether the listing states the UV rating, since you can't try the fit in person.

A Quick Checklist Before You Buy

1. Confirm the lenses state 100% UVA/UVB protection.
2. Match the tint to your main activity (everyday, driving, or sport).
3. Choose polarized only if glare is your main concern.
4. Check the frame fits without pinching or sliding.
5. Decide prescription vs. non-prescription based on whether you need correction.
6. Compare total price including any lens upgrades, and confirm the return policy if buying online.