Best Sunglasses for Kids

We wear sunglasses consistently when driving or spending time outdoors. But have you ever thought about sunglasses for your children?

Just as we need proper UV protection for our eyes, so do our kids, as they are just as much at risk.

Then again, the lovely picture and bright-colored superhero sunglasses may look appealing, but are they doing anything to protect your kid’s eyes?

In this article, I want to help you find the best sunglasses for kids that are fun to wear and serve their intended purpose.


Why Kids Should Wear Sunglasses

But first, let me give you a few practical facts on why it is so important for your kids to wear proper sunglasses;

  • The retina of a child’s eye is more at risk than an adult’s because the lens of a kid’s eye can transmit around 70 percent more UV than an adult’s eye.
  • When your child’s eyes suffer sunburn, the damage will be there, but they are less likely to feel the sunburn-like adults do.
  • Damage to the lens of your eyes is permanent. The cells of the lens of your eyes will never be replaced or renewed, and the lens cannot repair itself at all.
  • Kids under ten are at large risk of skin and eye damage because their eyes and skin are much more fragile.
  • Sunburned eyes have long-term effects and can lead to cataracts, pterygium and macular degeneration, and melanomas.
  • Very bright sunlight that reflects off sand, pavements, snow, or water may cause immediate damage to the corner of a child’s eyes.
  • A Child spends much more time outdoors than an adult, so their skin and eyes are much more at risk.
  • Proper sunglasses for children will offer 100% UV protection and can still be fun and cool.

Choosing Sunglasses for Children

When choosing the best sunglasses for children, there are a few basic considerations you will need to adhere to;

  • 100% UV Blocking – A child’s sunglasses need to have the highest UV blocking available. It would be best to start using protective sunglasses at least three years of age. Choose sunglasses with 100% UV protection, and look for UVA and UVB protection.
  • Good Coverage – The sunglasses should cover a large portion of the eyes and delicate skin around your child’s eyes. Ensure the lenses are large enough to offer proper coverage, and always use sunscreen on your child’s face.
  • Durability is – Let us face it, children are active and pretty rough on everything, including their new shades. So opt for sunglasses that can take the punch. Look for impact and scratch-resistant sunglasses and more durable materials such as plastic and carbonates. Lenses should never be glass, and scratch-resistant lenses are ideal.
  • Give Your Child a Choice – When you have found the perfect brand or a few options, let your child choose their favorite. Children may be reluctant to wear sunglasses, but choosing the colors and type they like out of a few options will make them more eager to wear them.

Features of a Good Pair of Sunglasses for Kids

Kids Sunglasses

  • Fit – Kids’ sunglasses must be chosen to fit their specific face shape and be age-appropriate. As you will see from our review list, there are quite a few fit and shape options and sizes for babies, toddlers, young and older children.
  • Frame Type – As with the adult sunglasses options, there are also different frames for children, such as round, square, aviator, and wayfarer shapes.
  • Materials – Sunglasses for children can consist of materials such as plastic, metal, rubber, or nylon for the frame. The lens could be plastic, polycarbonate, or other materials. I recommend not getting sunglasses with a glass frame for children.
  • Options – Regarding sunglasses for children, some size or age-specific options are usually available. Furthermore, depending on the specific brand and model, you will get color options in the frame and lenses.

Reviews: The Best Sunglasses for Kids

Listed below is a range of some of the best available sunglasses for children of all ages;


1
Reviewed by: Eliza Ward Score: 98

  • The Babiators come in sizes for toddlers and children.
  • They have a durable rubber frame and a mirrored lens that is non-polarized.
  • The UV 400 lenses offer 100% UVA and UVB protection, which we are looking for.
  • The flexible rubber frame is guaranteed to be durable and offers a more form fit.
  • As you can see, more colors are available, so your child can choose their favorite.


2
  • The Tuga is ideal for smaller children as it comes in sizes from 0-5 years.
  • It has a durable plastic frame and polycarbonate lenses.
  • The lenses will block 100% of UVA and UVB rays effectively.
  • The set includes the sunglasses with two adjustable neoprene straps for fitting and a lightweight matching case for the sunglasses with zip closure.
  • You can adjust the straps as your child grows, which is a great convenience.


3
  • Nothing better than a trusted pair of Ray-bans for your child.
  • They have Nylon construction with a plastic frame and standard plastic lenses.
  • The lenses are non-polarized and offer 100% UV protection, which is ideal.
  • You also get a handy carry case included with your child’s Ray-bans.
  • The colors available make them fun and can include your child in the decision process.


4
  • the Knockaround Premium sunglasses for kids come in a few color options ideal for older children.
  • They are plastic with a polycarbonate lens that offers UV 400 protection.
  • The lenses are also fully impact resistant.
  • With this purchase, you likewise get a carry case included.


5
  • They are Plastic with mirrored lenses that are impact resistant.
  • The fit is ergonomic for proper grip on the face and head that will not slip off.
  • Spectron 3+ blocks 88 percent of visible light, is lightweight, has a flash treatment that improves visible light filtering, and has a mirror effect on the lenses.
  • The wrap-around shape offers a wide range of vision and protection.


6
We have UV 400 non-polarized sunglasses for kids in all sizes and many color options from X Loop.
  • These are sporty sunglasses for children of ages 3 to 10 years.
  • They have a plastic frame and plastic lenses that are non-polarized.
  • The sunglasses are a premium UV 400 protective design against UVA and UVB rays.
  • They are very lightweight and durable, ideal for sports and activities.
  • There are also more colors available from which your child can choose.


Index Table: Top Rated Sunglasses for Kids

No.ProductImageFeaturesBrandScore
1Babiators Kid's Kids - Kids Baby and Toddlers Sunglasses
  • Uv 400 lenses
  • Color Options
  • Kids Sizes
Babiators98
2Tuga Kid's Adjustable - Sunglasses for Younger Kids
  • Straps
  • Adjustable Fit
  • Plastic Frame
  • Polycarbonate Lense
Tuga97.8
3Ray-Ban KidMen's Rj9052’s - Sunglasses
  • Nylon
  • Durable
  • Color Options
Ray-Ban97.6
4Knockaround Kid's Premiums - Childrens Polarized Sunglasses
  • Full UV 400
  • Color Options
  • Sizes
Knockaround96.9
5Julbo Kid's Reach - Sunglasses with Spectron 3+ Lens
  • Mirrored Lense
  • Non-Polarized
Julbo97.4
6X Loop Kid's Sports - Sunglasses for Kids
  • Colors and Sizes Available
  • Non-Polarized
  • UV 400
X Loop97.5


About the Author

Eliza Ward

Eliza Ward is a fashion fanatic, nature lover, and full-time mother for 3 lovely kids in South Africa. She has always had a fetish for clothes and has the best product recommendations for all her friends and family. So she turned what she loved into her full-time job - by testing and recommending the best fashion trends for our online readers. Read her reviews to know how detailed her observations are.