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Sunglasses are great—though you didn’t need me to tell you that. Not only do they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they also have the unique ability to make you look ridiculously cool – should you invest in the right pair, of course.
Which is where I come in. I’ve made it my mission to round up the best sunglasses brands for men, ranging from the uber-luxurious to budget-friendly. And sure, chances are you’ll have heard of a few, but you’ll also discover some new names that you might not be so familiar with. Plus plenty of unique styles to suit all face shapes.
Keep reading as I share a selection of spectacular shade specialists (try saying that in a hurry) that’ll transform your eyewear collection and ensure that you always remain safe (and stylish) in the sun.
Key Takeaways
With Wham’s rendition of “Club Tropicana” playing quietly in the background and my mind wandering to warmer times and beachside bars, I set out to create a collection of the top sunglasses brands for men.
What started as numerous names scribbled on my Moleskine notebook gradually grew to over 30 contenders known for creating some of the finest sunnies around.
With the help of hundreds of customer reviews and years of shade-wearing experience, I eventually narrowed down the list to the 10 best sunglasses brands for men. Here you’ll find a plethora of options, including pairs from Ray-Ban and The Resort Co.
Why it’s great: Ray-Ban hardly requires an introduction. The brand has been synonymous with creating quality sunglasses for almost a century, and has been the eyewear of choice for some of the world’s most recognized men—from Tom Cruise to Bob Dylan and James Dean.
They are world-leaders in the category of the best sunglasses brands for men. What makes Ray-Bans so special, apart from the excellent UV protection, is their everlasting appeal. Looking just as good today as they did all those years ago.
Who is this brand for? Ray-Ban’s shades are timeless, durable, and protective – not forgetting versatile. They offer a wide range of styles that cater to all budgets, occasions, and face shapes.
This makes them an excellent all-rounder that’s suitable for anyone looking for the kind of sunglasses that transcend trends and work with just about any outfit.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: I’m not going to be the first guy to sing Ray-Ban’s praises and certainly not the last—their brilliance is no secret. If it’s individuality you’re after, you’re going to struggle to find a pair that many others aren’t already rocking.
Why it’s great: Not familiar with Maui Jim? Its sunglasses boast PolarizedPlus2 technology, making sure that you have maximum protection against harmful UV rays while enhancing your visual experience. Depending on which frame you choose, you’ll also benefit from lenses that don’t smash, scratch, or smudge.
Who is this brand for? You’ll prioritize superior optical clarity, advanced lens technology, and eye protection, particularly in super bright and sunny environments.
One of the best sunglasses brands for men, Maui Jim originally designed their shades for outdoor enthusiasts, and they remain a must-have for guys who engage in activities such as beach outings, water sports, golfing, and hiking.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: Although many will appreciate the polarized technology, some users might find that the specific color-enhancing tint may take a bit of adjustment, especially if they are more accustomed to neutral or standard lenses.
Why it’s great: Let’s face it, you don’t get much cooler than Paul Newman. The man knew how to dress. So, if Carrera sunglasses were good enough for him, need I say anymore?
Famous for their motorsport-inspired aviators, the brand has been churning out stylish sunnies since the ‘50s. Not just nice to look at, they’re comfortable, safe, and super versatile.
Who is this brand for? Though you don’t have to be into F1 to wear Carrera sunglasses, fans of motorsport will definitely be drawn to the brand’s racing-inspired designs. You’ll also love them if you’re searching for a designer name that doesn’t put you into your overdraft.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: Larger aviator-style sunglasses are the brand’s speciality—it’s what they do best. If you’re looking for alternative designs, you will find them; there’s just not so many.
Why it’s great: There was a time when the only guys you’d find in Oakley sunglasses were cyclists, baseball players, and your balding dad. Nowadays, the brand’s performance-minded shades are just as popular within the fashion scene as they are with sportsmen.
Whether you’re hitting the slopes, pounding the pavement, or hanging out at your favorite coffee house, they’re one of the best sunglass brands around, the perfect blend of form and function.
Who is this brand for? Oakley is still very much a brand for active lifestyles, particularly those engaged in sports and outdoor activities. However, its diverse range of styles will also appeal to individuals seeking fashionable and sporty eyewear for everyday use.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: If you’re not wearing Oakley shades for sports or exploring the great outdoors, then some of their designs may feel a bit too specialized. Especially if your style is more classic than contemporary.
Why it’s great: A young Spanish brand with sustainability firmly in their DNA, Meller provides seriously cool shades at surprisingly cheap prices.
Each pair is made with eco-conscious practices, and materials, in mind, while offering a whole host of uber-impressive features including 100% UV protection, polarized lenses, and anti-scratch coating.
Who is this brand for? If you want fashion-forward shades without breaking the bank, Meller tops my list of the best sunglasses brands for men. They have an impressive catalog of more than 80 styles, ensuring that there’s something to suit every size head, big or small.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: Although several designs could be considered classic, most of Meller’s sunglasses are quite contemporary. Some of which might be a little too ‘edgy’ for the refined gentleman.
Why it’s great: The Resort Co is all about being eco-conscious while helping you create the ultimate vacation wardrobe. Among its collection of shorts, tops, and footwear, there’s also plenty of top-tier shades.
Not just for your summer trips, they’re the type you’ll want to wear on the daily, whether you’re hiding a hangover or catching some rays. What I love most about them is their range of options, made from quality acetate, with various different lens colors to suit all complexions.
Who is this brand for? From smokey lenses to transparent frames, The Resort Co has plenty of variety, making them an excellent choice for men of all sartorial preferences. You’ll also find a decent selection of lens shapes and sizes, so there’s options for all face shapes.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: This is one of the best sunglasses brands for men. However, they don’t offer polarized lenses, which is a bit of shame. And actually quite surprising.
Why it’s great: What started as a small boutique on Hollywood Boulevard during the late ‘80s is now one of the leaders in handcrafted shades. From retro styles to modern showstoppers, Oliver Peoples’ designs are heavily inspired by fashion, film, art, and music.
Technically and visually brilliant, each frame is tumbled, polished, and hand-adjusted to ensure the utmost quality.
Who is this brand for? Unique, high-end, and impactful, Oliver Peoples is the kind of brand that’ll do wonders for your street cred. They have a variety of sunglasses to cater to all face shapes, but you’ll need to be willing to part with considerable cash to secure a pair.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: You should be made aware of the premium price point, making Oliver Peoples sunglasses a significant investment. In fact, the brand’s commitment to luxury eyewear might limit the availability of more budget-friendly options for some.
Why it’s great: Cutler & Gross was established by opticians Graham Cutler and Tony Gross in 1969. The men met by chance in optometry school and took the brand from a humble bespoke service in London’s Knightsbridge to the go-to name for the likes of rock stars, royalty, and artists.
Today, they continue to perfectly balance taste and technicality to offer a selection of striking shades for the fashion-conscious fella.
Who is this brand for? You’ll like premium names that back it up with a quality product. And it’ll definitely help if you’re working with a generous budget. If you’re after the kind of sunnies that keep you safe, as well as the center of attention, Cutler & Gross is a brand that needs to be firmly on your radar.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: Their shades don’t come cheap. However, if you’re a newcomer, you can sign up to the brand’s newsletter and get 10% off your first pair.
Why it’s great: An eyewear icon, Persol is undoubtedly one of the best sunglass brands. Established in 1917, its designs have nestled on the noses of some truly monumental names, from Steve McQueen to Lewis Hamilton. And for good reason.
Instantly recognizable and totally badass, their timeless charm will take you from the French Riviera to backyard barbecues in the Bronx.
Who is this brand for? You’ll need to be willing to spend a little cash, but Persol’s sunglasses are universally appealing. They’re not too showy or high-fashion, meaning they’re a wise investment piece that’ll never fall out of favor.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: I wouldn’t call Persol mainstream, but their shades are certainly a popular choice amongst city folk and gentlemen that live by the sea. So don’t be surprised if you’re not the only one wearing a pair.
Why it’s great: The clue’s in the name. Retrosuperfuture borrows design elements from the past and brings them to the now. Its runway-ready frames are quirky, contemporary, and cool, recognized for their mix of eclectic aesthetics and seriously impressive quality. They also have the all-important 100% UVB/UVA protection.
Who is this brand for? Whether you’re the kind of guy who likes to follow fashion trends or simply wants to stand out from the crowd, Retrosuperfuture is undoubtedly one of the top sunglasses brands for men.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: Not everyone is going to be a fan of the brand’s avant-garde options, but they do offer a selection of slightly more subtle frames, too.
Buying Considerations For The Best Sunglasses Brands For Men
Shape
The best sunglass brands offer a variety of styles. This is especially important when it comes to choosing the right sized lenses—not all of them will suit your face shape.
For example, individuals with a square face, characterized by a strong jawline and angular features, may find aviator or round-shaped lenses complement their natural contours. On the other hand, those with a round face shape or big head often opt for rectangular or square frames to create a more balanced and structured appearance.
Protection
Eye health is paramount, so you should consider only brands that offer the right protection from dangerous UV rays. Generally speaking, most reputable names can be relied on, but it’s always best to double-check.
Versatility
Opt for brands that offer sunglasses that are versatile and suitable for various occasions. A versatile pair can effortlessly transition from casual to formal settings, allowing you to maximize their use and complement different aspects of your wardrobe.
How We Chose
Have you ever noticed how many sunglasses brands there are? There’s tons—all claiming to be the governor. Obviously. Which is why it was important that I really did my homework (mom was right, after all).
To ensure that I found only the very best sunglasses brands for men, I set my standards extremely high, carrying out a vigorous selection process that closely analyzed each name and the shades they offered.
By looking at customer feedback, brand reputation, and value for money, I was able to gather a selection of options for all guys, whether you’re as bald as an eagle, as rich as a rock star, or saving money via the guidance of Martin Lewis.
Company Reputation: Though history and experience was key to my finding the best sunglasses brands for men, I also made sure that I considered newcomers that are already making a name for themselves when it comes to a quality service and product.
Customer Reviews: I delved deep into customer feedback to gauge real-world experiences with the names under consideration. I looked at the specific websites for each brand, and I also looked closely at various Reddit forums, plus online review communities, to get insights into user satisfaction, product durability, and style preferences.
Price: Considering a range of price points was crucial in finding the best sunglasses brands for men.
More importantly, I made sure that what each brand was offering was fairly priced once you took into consideration factors such as build quality, lens technology, and brand reputation. I aimed for a balance between affordability and the intrinsic value each brand provided.
Why Trust Us?
Billy Webb, a distinguished writer for FashionBeans, has established himself as a trusted authority in men’s grooming and fashion, making him the ideal guide for your sunglass brand exploration.
His methodical approach to product evaluation, which he has demonstrated in his extensive work on men’s leather slippers and Creed Aventus alternatives, ensures that his recommendations are not only trendy but also practical.
Billy’s expertise is not confined to grooming; his insights into men’s fashion accessories, as seen in his analysis of the best work bags for men, underline his comprehensive understanding of what makes a product stand out in both functionality and style.
By incorporating meticulous product testing and a sharp eye for detail, Billy has a track record of identifying the finest in men’s fashion and grooming products.
So, when it comes to selecting the best sunglasses brands, you’re in capable hands with Billy. His proven track record, detailed product knowledge, and commitment to quality make his advice invaluable and trustworthy for anyone looking to make an informed choice in their fashion and grooming selections.
Final Verdict
When looking at quality, style, value for money, and versatility, you can’t overlook Ray-Ban as one of the best sunglasses brands for men. They’ve been in the shade-making game for over 80 years and continue to produce some of the finest sunnies on the market.
Whether you’re looking for an everyday pair or something special, their portfolio is guaranteed to include something to tickle your fancy.
FAQ
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Though determining the best sunglasses brand for men depends largely on personal style preferences and budget constraints, labels like Ray-Ban and Persol are considered some of the most popular.
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Generally speaking, branded sunglasses are made to higher standards than their lesser-known counterparts. They also come with the kind of reputation that appeals to many guys. That being said, there are plenty of other reputable non-branded options that offer excellent UV protection and durability.
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Kind of. Brands often bring a certain level of assurance regarding quality, craftsmanship, and design. They are known for using high-quality materials and advanced lens technologies that ensure a premium product. However, you can also find decent sunnies without the big name. Ultimately, the importance of a brand depends on individual preferences, priorities, and whether the wearer values the specific design, prestige, or features associated with a particular brand.
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