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The first few years of life are critically important for the long-term health of any child. This applies to your child's vision as well!
We all know that protecting our skin from the sun's harmful rays is necessary, but what about our eyes? Kids’ sunglasses are a key purchase for parents who want to safeguard their child's eyes from harmful UV rays. Especially true for parents of active children who love the outdoors. Whether you are shopping for babies, toddlers, or teens, it is essential to find sunglasses that provide adequate protection, comfort, and durability.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why kids need sunglasses and what to look for when shopping for a pair, including the benefits of sports glasses for youth. We will also recommend some of the best brands, so you can find the perfect fit for your child's needs.
So, whether you are looking for the best toddler sunglasses or youth sunglasses for sports, check out our tips and recommendations to help you make an informed and expert-led decision.
Why Kids Need Sunglasses
Children's eyes are more vulnerable to UV damage than adults, which makes it crucial to protect their eyes from the sun's harmful rays. According to the World Health Organization, up to 80% of a person's lifetime exposure to UV radiation occurs before the age of 18. This exposure can increase the risk of short-term and long-term damage to the eyes, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and other vision problems.
A further study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that children who spend more time outdoors without proper eye protection have a higher risk of developing myopia (nearsightedness) than children who wear sunglasses regularly. The study also found that wearing sunglasses can help reduce glare and improve visual comfort and clarity, which is especially important for kids who are active and participate in sports.
Since children are more vulnerable to UV rays, wearing sunglasses can help reduce the risk of long-term eye damage.
Babies/Infants
Babies and infants need sunglasses to help protect their sensitive, still-developing eyes. These are far more susceptible to UV damage than the eyes of adults or older children. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the lens of a baby's eye is significantly clearer than an adult's, which means that more UV radiation can penetrate right through to the retina.
When shopping for baby sunglasses, it is imperative to look for ones that are specifically designed for their small faces and that also offer 100% UV protection. Hunt out the best infant sunglasses and don’t be fooled by those that simply look ‘cute’.
Remember, too, that babies and infants may not always keep their sunglasses on, so make sure to provide additional sun protection. Glasses are good, but babies don’t follow the rules! Protect your little ones with sunglasses but also hats, shades, screens, and parasols.
Toddlers
Toddlers also need sunglasses to protect their developing eyes from the sun. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can increase the risk of developing cataracts and other eye problems later in life.
The better types of kids’ sunglasses are made with flexible, durable materials that can withstand rough play and accidental drops. It is also important to make sure that the sunglasses fit properly and are comfortable for your child to wear. This can help ensure that they will be willing to keep them on.
Look for sunglasses that are specifically designed for smaller faces, too. This age is one where you can begin to teach your child the importance of eye care and self-care, and make sure to model good behavior yourself.
Youth/Teenagers
The damage from UV radiation is cumulative, meaning that the effects of exposure add up over time. By wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection, teenagers can reduce their risk of eye damage and vision problems later in life.
In addition to offering protection, sunglasses can also be a fashion statement for many young people. Oakley and Ray-Ban both offer youth-specific lines of sunglasses, with designs that are stylish as well as functional. Oakley youth sunglasses, for example, offer features like impact resistance and a secure fit to help protect against both UV radiation and accidents when out and about.
Junior Ray-Bans are also popular choices for teenagers who want sunglasses that are fashionable as well as practical. Youth sports sunglasses and polarized sunglasses are also great options for active teenagers who spend a lot of time outdoors.
What to Look For
Lenses and UV Protection
When shopping for infant and children sunglasses, look for ones that offer 100% UV protection. This means that the lenses block both UVA and UVB radiation, which are the two types of UV rays that are most harmful to the eyes.
In addition to UV protection, it's also important to consider the quality of the lenses. Look for lenses that are made from high-quality materials that are scratch-resistant and shatterproof, as these features can help prevent injury and will make the sunglasses last longer.
By choosing sunglasses with high-quality lenses and 100% UV protection, you can help protect your child's eyes and keep them safe while they enjoy outdoor activities and have fun in the sun!
Durability
When it comes to choosing sunglasses for kids, durability is key, especially for sports sunglasses. Children can be quite rough on their belongings, so you want to make sure the sunglasses you select can withstand the wear and tear of active play. Look for frames and lenses made of durable materials such as polyamide, polycarbonate, or nylon, and youth-polarized sunglasses that can protect their eyes from glare and harmful UV rays. These materials are lightweight yet tough, making them perfect for kids' sunglasses.
Additionally, consider scratch-resistant lenses that can hold up to accidental drops or scrapes during play. When sunglasses are built to last, you won't have to worry about constantly replacing them. This is especially important for infant and children’s sunglasses, which can be more prone to damage due to the joys and jostling of games and play.
Comfort
Uncomfortable or ill-fitting sunglasses can cause irritation and discomfort, making it difficult for kids to wear them consistently. Look for lightweight frames with soft nose pads and temple tips that won't pinch or rub against the skin. Adjustable straps or earpieces can also provide a more secure and comfortable fit. In addition, be sure to choose lenses that are the right size and shape for your child's face, as poorly fitting ones can cause discomfort. When kids' sunglasses are comfortable, they are more likely to reach for them.
Style
While it's important to prioritize functionality and protection, it's also vital to choose sunglasses that your child will want to wear. With so many different colors, shapes, and designs available, it is easy to find a pair that suits your child's style. Some popular styles for children's sunglasses include sporty wrap-around frames for active kids, classic wayfarer frames for a timeless look, and fun colorful frames for a playful touch.
When choosing sunglasses for your child, involve them in the decision-making process and let them choose the model they like. This will ensure they are more likely to wear them and less likely to lose or damage them. By prioritizing both style and functionality, you can find the ideal sunglasses for your child that will protect their eyes while also making them feel confident and comfortable.
Sunglass Fix Custom Lenses
Our custom made lenses can be a great solution if your child's sunglasses have been scratched or damaged. Instead of buying new ones, you can simply replace the lenses with custom lenses that are designed to fit the specific frame. This can be a cost-effective way to keep your child's sunglasses in good condition and ensure that they are always well-protected from the sun's rays.
You can choose the type of lens that best suits your child's needs, whether that be polarized or non-polarized, tinted or colored, with an anti-glare coating, or not.
Our lenses are made from polyamide, a high-grade technology that is impact-resistant and shatterproof but also provides the crystal-clear clarity of glass. This makes them ideal for active children who may be prone to dropping or bumping their sunglasses.
