A Complete Guide to Types of Sunglasses, Styles, and Shapes
Choosing the right pair of sunglasses involves balancing style, comfort, and functionality. Your sunglasses should not only complement your lifestyle and face shape but also meet your eye protection needs. From timeless aviators to fashionable cat-eye frames, each style brings its own appeal. Beyond appearance, selecting sunglasses that provide UV protection and suit your face shape can elevate both your look and comfort.
Types of Sunglasses Shapes & Frames
Aviators
Aviator sunglasses are a classic design originally crafted for military pilots in the 1930s. These glasses are known for their teardrop-shaped lenses, which provide extensive coverage, reducing sunlight from all angles. Aviators typically feature thin, lightweight metal frames made from materials such as stainless steel or titanium. Revo’s Aviators incorporate advanced lens technology, such as NASA-developed polarized lenses, to enhance visibility by reducing glare from reflective surfaces. The lenses, often mirrored, amplify contrast and color accuracy, making them ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, driving, and water sports.
Navigator
Navigator sunglasses are similar to aviators but feature a squarer lens shape that offers a more structured, modern look. The boxier frame provides excellent forward visibility, making them a preferred choice for driving. Navigators can be found in both metal and plastic frames, balancing durability with comfort. Our Navigator sunglasses also include polarized lenses that reduce glare and enhance visual clarity, particularly in environments with high sun exposure, like open roads or water.
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Wayfarers
First introduced by Ray-Ban in the 1950s, wayfarers are one of the most iconic sunglass designs. With their trapezoidal shape and thicker frames, they have a versatile appeal that suits both formal and casual settings. Wayfarers are made from durable plastic and are known for their timelessness, offering a look that can transition seamlessly from a day at the beach to a night out. Revo’s versions of these frames emphasize lightweight comfort without compromising on style or protection.
Cat-eye
Cat-eye sunglasses are a bold fashion statement, characterized by their upswept corners. Popular in the 1950s and 60s, this vintage style has made a modern comeback. Cat-eye frames offer both glamour and functionality, often featuring tinted lenses that add mystique to the design. These frames typically work well for heart-shaped and oval faces, where their sharp angles help soften facial features.
Round/Oval
Round and oval sunglasses offer a retro, bohemian vibe, often associated with figures like John Lennon. Their curved lenses make them perfect for people seeking a laid-back, artistic aesthetic. These sunglasses tend to work well for square or angular face shapes, softening sharp lines. Our round sunglasses also come with our signature polarized lenses, ensuring you get both style and advanced eye protection.
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Rectangular
Rectangular sunglasses provide a structured, modern look with their sharp lines and geometric shape. These frames are ideal for people with round or oval face shapes, as the contrast between the frame and face creates a flattering effect. We offer various styles of rectangular frames, which combine sleek design with functional lens technology like UV protection and polarization.
Square
Square sunglasses are another geometric style that offers boldness and structure. Perfect for people with round or softer face shapes, square frames add definition and balance to the wearer’s features. These sunglasses are often selected for their versatility and fashion-forward look. Our square frames come equipped with impact-resistant polarized lenses for ultimate durability and visual clarity.
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Rimless
Rimless sunglasses are perfect for those seeking a minimalist, lightweight option. With no frame surrounding the lenses, these sunglasses offer a sleek, modern look that is both understated and elegant. They are ideal for both casual wear and more formal occasions.
Sports Wrap
Designed for active lifestyles, sports wrap sunglasses offer a close, secure fit that wraps around the face to prevent slippage during physical activities. These frames provide maximum coverage, protecting your eyes from the sun and elements like wind or debris. Revo’s sports wrap sunglasses are equipped with polarized lenses and are built from durable, impact-resistant materials, making them perfect for high-energy outdoor sports.
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Shield
Shield sunglasses are characterized by a single, continuous lens that covers both eyes, offering extensive coverage and protection. With their bold, futuristic look, these sunglasses are popular for those who want to make a statement while ensuring their eyes are fully protected from UV rays. Revo’s shield sunglasses feature advanced lens technology designed to reduce glare and enhance visibility, making them ideal for both fashion and function.
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Sunglasses Styles for Different Activities
Sports Sunglasses
Sports sunglasses are designed to enhance performance while protecting your eyes during outdoor activities. Key features include:
- Wraparound designs: These provide a snug fit, preventing the glasses from moving during activity and offering excellent peripheral coverage.
- Impact-resistant lenses: Ideal for high-impact sports like cycling, running, or water sports, these lenses can withstand sudden knocks and falls.
- UV protection: Most sports sunglasses include 100% UV protection, essential for outdoor activities that expose the eyes to prolonged sunlight.
- Grip-enhancing features: Non-slip materials, such as rubberized nose pads and temple tips, help to keep the sunglasses securely in place during movement.
- Polarized lenses: Polarization is a common feature, helping to reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water or snow.
Driving Sunglasses
Designed for safety and visual clarity on the road, driving sunglasses help reduce distractions caused by glare and reflections. Features to look for:
- Polarized lenses: Minimize glare from reflective surfaces like windshields and roads, ensuring better visibility.
- Anti-reflective coatings: Prevent light from bouncing off the inside of the lenses, helping reduce eye strain.
- UV protection: Protects the eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays during long drives in direct sunlight.
- Lightweight frames: Offer all-day comfort, making them perfect for extended periods of driving.
- Contrast-enhancing lenses: Improve visibility by enhancing color and contrast, helping drivers see road details more clearly.
Outdoor and Adventure Sunglasses
Sunglasses made for outdoor and adventure activities are designed to withstand extreme environments while providing maximum eye protection. These typically include:
- Durable materials: Sturdy frames, often made from tough materials like nylon or acetate, built to handle rugged conditions.
- Polarized lenses: Essential for reducing glare from reflective surfaces, such as water or snow, making them ideal for activities like fishing or hiking.
- Scratch-resistant coatings: Help prevent lens damage, which is crucial for high-contact activities like rock climbing.
- Moisture resistance: Lenses and frames designed to resist fogging and moisture buildup, ensuring clear vision in all weather conditions.
- Flexible frames: Offer enhanced durability and comfort, making them suitable for physically demanding adventures
Sunglasses Frame Materials
Plastic
Plastic frames are widely popular for their affordability and variety of styles. They are lightweight and come in many colors and patterns, making them a versatile choice for all tastes. However, plastic frames can sometimes lack the durability of metal or acetate frames, especially when exposed to extreme conditions.
Metal
Metal frames provide a sleek and durable option, often seen in styles like aviators and navigators. They are typically made from materials like stainless steel or titanium, offering strength without adding too much weight. Metal frames are also adjustable, making them a comfortable fit for most wearers.
Acetate
Acetate frames are a premium option for those seeking quality and style. Known for their hypoallergenic properties and rich colors, acetate sunglasses are both durable and comfortable. They can also be customized to match specific style preferences, making them a favorite among fashion-conscious individuals.
Types of Sunglasses - Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if sunglasses provide adequate UV protection?
Look for sunglasses that explicitly mention 100% UVA and UVB protection on the label.
- Are mirrored lenses better than polarized lenses?
Mirrored lenses reflect light, reducing glare, while polarized lenses filter it. For driving or outdoor sports, polarized lenses are often the better choice.
- Can I get prescription lenses in any sunglasses style?
Yes, most sunglasses styles can be fitted with prescription lenses. Consult with your eyewear provider to explore your options.
- How to choose sunglasses for everyday use vs. specific activities?
For everyday use, focus on style and comfort. For activities like sports or driving, prioritize polarized lenses, durability, and UV protection.
- What is the latest trend in sunglasses styles for this year?
Oversized and shield-style sunglasses are trending, blending bold fashion with maximum sun protection.