Good/Better/Best

Smoky Shades

Good/Better/Best

Smoky Shades

A price and style comparison

Akila Eyewear Jubilee sunglasses

Whenever you buy a pair of sunglasses, you end up contemplating between copping the easy, affordable option or all out splurging, right? Of course, protecting your eyes should be the number one incentive when choosing shades because less expensive versions may not provide the level of safety that your eyes legitimately need. Cheap sunglasses typically don't have the capability to absorb UV rays because their tint coating is so thin compared to a pair that may be heavier on defense (but also heavier on the wallet). The right pair of sunglasses will not only shield your eyes from harm, they will also upgrade your style.

While classic black and tortoise frames never go out of style, we've seen more and more stylish guys gravitating towards clear frames or what some brands may call 'crystal'. It's a nice break from the standard darker frames and they feel a bit more modern. Plus, the chunkier (yet transparent) silhouette is perfect for spring and summer, when you wear less so your accessories tend to pop more. Whether you're looking to invest in a pair or keep it under a hundred bucks, we've selected three similar styles that aren't the typical sunglass brands you see all the time. What's more, they're available in a range of prices. How much you want to spend is entirely up to you, but as you see, these pairs offer serious value for the level of quality.

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Good

The Budget-Friendly Option

• These frames are designed in Japan

• Nose pads help ensure comfort for all-day wear

• The low-bridge design and wider frame shape may slide down some faces though

• The “airframe” material makes these the lightest option of the three

Yorba sunglasses,
$90 by J!NS

Better

The In-Between Option

• Frames are designed in L.A using an environmental-friendly cellulose acetate

• A chunkier frame with riveted five-barrel hinges and stainless steel temple cores for flexibility

• The lenses are made from nylon with anti-reflective coating for clarity and durability

• 100% UVA/UVB protection

Jubilee sunglasses,
$140 by Akila Eyewear

Best

The Splurge-Worthy Option

• Sourced acetates and metals from Japan, with finishing touches from Germany and Italy

• The frames are manufactured from a strong fiber-based acetate that is made from cotton and wood pulp

• The lenses have full UVA/UVB protection, but also a handy anti-smudge coating that eliminates glare and fingerprints

• Custom filigree detail is etched onto both sides of the frames with an embedded core-wire, offering a unique vintage detail

A7 sunglasses,
$350 by Rose & Co.

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