11 Best Pairs of Baby Sunglasses for Fun in the Sun
While sun protection is top of mind in the warmer months, it’s crucial to shield your little one year-round. That includes protecting your child’s eyes with a sweet pair of baby sunglasses. Baby and toddler sunglasses look adorable and provide invaluable sun protection that your child shouldn’t be without. We’ve seen plenty of sassy shades show up online, but it’s worth noting that not every pair offers the right safeguards.
Before you impulse buy those cute sunglasses you’ve seen in your Instagram feed, be sure you read up on all the safety features first. If the percentage of protection against both UVA and UVB rays isn’t at least 99 percent, then you’ll want to keep shopping. And while protection is paramount, it’s also important to be mindful of elements like comfort, fit, durability and fashion. Read on for top shopping tips, plus a list of the best baby sunglasses on the market.
When searching for the best baby sunglasses, you’ll want to look for options with a UV400 label, which guarantees 99 to 100 percent protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Then, consider factors like comfort and coverage. “If you can’t afford to do full custom-fit glasses, you can still find a variety of wraparound styles that offer full sun protection for your baby,” reassures Alexis Phillips-Walker, DO, a pediatrician in Atascocita, Texas. “The glasses should fit just beyond the eye, without being uncomfortable, for full protection—and you can also help amplify the protection by having your child wear a hat.”
According to Phillips-Walker, here are a few other tidbits to bear in mind as your sunglasses hunt heats up:
- Comfort and fit. “Sunglasses with a strap around the head or silicone sleeves that cover the arm of the sunglasses enable a better fit,” she notes. “Active children should have sunglasses made of impact-resistant polycarbonate with scratch-proof lenses, and frames should be made of a material that is bendable but not breakable.” Babies are fragile, so of course any gear they’re wearing should be slender, flexible and soft. You can find sunglasses made from a number of materials, but rubber and lightweight plastic are priority for the comfort they provide.
- Design and durability. If you ask any pediatrician or pediatric ophthalmologist, they’ll likely tell you that impact-resistant frames are king, and that the best lenses are made of polycarbonate—a material much lighter than glass or plastic, which makes wearing them more comfortable. “Frames that fit properly not only protect against the sun’s UV rays, but also keep dust and other debris from getting into the child’s eyes,” notes Phillips-Walker. “Spring hinges also help keep the fit of the frame snug, reducing the chance of the glasses falling off. And a static or removeable elastic band can keep the frames securely attached to the head, while simultaneously preventing damage or loss.” Straps or stretchy bands can be a parent’s best friend—just be sure to keep an eye on baby at all times, as anything hanging around their necks can easily become a choking hazard.
- Polarized versus nonpolarized. Just like your own sunglasses, baby sunglasses are available in polarized or nonpolarized pairs. All it means is that the lenses are treated with a periphery chemical that can better filter out light. Phillips-Walker says that it has very little to do with sun protection. “If you have a child with extra sensitive eyes, a polarized set of lenses can allow them to see better in highly reflective environments, like being out in the snow, floating in a pool or riding on a boat." Otherwise, opting for the polarized set of shades usually just equates to a larger price tag.
If you’re searching for a pair of sunglasses for your child that are as snazzy as they are safe, you’ll be over the moon by the selection of protective baby and toddler shades available at a handful of our favorite shops. Whether you’re looking for a classic wraparound style or a funky pair of baby aviators that’ll let you twin with your mini, these online stores have sunglasses to suit every style and budget.
- Maisonette. If iconic baby sunglasses brands—like Babiators, WeeFarers and more—give you all the feels, then Maisonette is a great place to start your search. This online store has tons of cool, retro sunnies for baby girls and boys alike.
- Carter’s. For cute baby sunglasses at affordable prices, Carter’s is where you’ll want to stock your cart. All of the brand’s sunglasses have built-in UVA and UVB protection, and you can score picks as low as $8—talk about cheap and cheerful!
- Nordstrom. Think you’ll need to scoop up a set of sunny specs for yourself too? Then definitely keep Nordstrom bookmarked. The department store has just as many luxe and lovable sunglasses for your child as it does for you!
- Amazon. The retail giant offers a slew of popular styles and brands at low prices. Plus, you’ll get free shipping if you have Amazon Prime.
The best baby sunglasses are stylish, sturdy and, most importantly, safe. Look for sunglasses that block harmful UVA and UVB rays, fit snugly and cover the entire eye area. Other perks include shatter-resistant lenses and flexible frames that’ll withstand wear and tear. Ready to start shopping? Here you’ll find infant sunglasses that offer all the sun protection your little one needs, and a bunch more perks you’ll love as parents.
Best overall baby sunglasses
- Bendable frames are hard to break
- Available in a huge range of colors
- Includes a head strap and ear adjuster kit for a perfect fit
- Baby size may be too small for children with larger heads
- Not flexible enough for some
These little sunglasses have a lot going for them. They’re polarized to give baby a clear view and block out 100 percent of UVA, UVB and UVC rays. The sunglasses are free of BPA, phthalate, lead and latex, and have a soft frame that’s bendable, lowering the risk of breaks. These shades are lightweight and come with cool perks, including a head strap and ear adjuster kit to help your little one get that just-right fit. And even better: Roshambo will replace the sunglasses if the lenses get scratched or the frames get damaged.
Sizing: 0 to 24 months
Best infant sunglasses
- Made from materials without hormone-disrupting additives (including BPA, BPS, BPF, BFDGE, NOGE or BADGE)
- Available colors all coordinate with the brand’s full collection of swimwear and sun wear
- Perfect lightweight designs to stock up on (one for the diaper bag, one for the car, etc.)
- Adjustable strap is new, so reviews aren’t yet available
Searching for stylish newborn sunglasses? Run, don’t walk, to this positively perfect pair by Green Sprouts. Offering 100 percent UVA and UVB sun protection, these super flexible shades come in four cute colors (white, navy, rose pink and black) and scratch-resistant lenses. The best part? These cute sunnies are equipped with a removable, great-stretch cord with an adjustable toggle to tighten or loosen the fit on your babe. From their first few weeks to their pre-K days, your growing buds will live in these whenever the sun is shining.
Sizing: 0-24 months to 2T-4T
Best baby aviators
- Jet Black color is iconic, but these shades come in a two-tone “Pink Lemonade” too
- Heritage style has an impressive 10-year reputation to precede it
- Some dislike the Babiators logo on the side of the glasses
These signature UV400 lenses from Babiators offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they’re safe for your child, whether the sunglasses are on their face or in their mouth. These were the pair that put this much-adored brand on the map over a decade ago. No matter where your little one is rocking them, they’ll feel like a rockstar… or, you know, a maverick.
Sizing: 0-2 years to 3-5 years
Best baby girl sunglasses
- Polarized lenses reduce harsh glare and improve baby’s visibility in the sun
- Flexible, comfortable rubber frames and shatter-resistant lenses won’t break with your rough-and-tumble baby or toddler
- Included microfiber storage bag doubles as a cleaning cloth
- Blooming petal frames may be bulky for little ones under 2 years old
- Pricey
With fashion-forward lavender mirrored lenses, this just-launched Irresistible Iris colorway makes these famous floral frames the most stylish shades to steal for your little miss sunshine! Like all Babiators, the award-winning sunglasses protect against 100 percent of UV rays and are virtually indestructible, thanks to bendy rubber construction. Best of all, they come in three dynamic sizes that fit babies, toddlers and kids alike.
Sizing: 0-2 years to 6+ years
Best baby boy sunglasses
- Glasses meet all stringent CPSIA, FDA and CE standards, so they’re incredibly safe and durable
- Mismatched strap adds another dimension of hipster quirk and sensibility for your Brooklyn-ite trendsetter
- Brand’s replacement warranty lasts for a year after purchase, but you need to register and it currently only applies to US shoppers
For a fun neon splash of color to your kiddo’s outfits, these ultra bright Caribbean blue-colored glasses are perfect. Hipster Kid’s line of polarized, shatter-resistant wayfarers in glossy, 90s-inspired colors feature 100 percent UVA and UVB protection, a stay-put strap and fun tinted lenses that give your sidekick cool points and confidence wherever they go.
Sizing: 0-2 years to 3-6 years
Best baby sunglasses with strap
- Made with glare-free, UVA, UVB and blue light-blocking, impact-resistant lenses
- Adjustable neoprene strap is moisture-wicking and secure (without being constricting)
- Available in a variety of fun colors for both boys and girls
- Strap may still be too much for a newborn, despite the 0-2 year manufacturer’s recommendation
- Not a great option for babies who don’t like things put on their heads (try a hat first)
These baby sunglasses with a strap are just the pair you’ll want in your diaper bag or beach tote when you’re strolling on a sunny day or breezing down the boardwalk with your little walker in tow. The featherweight Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) frame and integrated nose pad are light and durable without putting pressure on your little beach bum’s temples or the bridge of their nose and ears. This is huge, because as anyone with a little one knows, they’ll bail on wearing anything that poses even the slightest threat of discomfort. That said, if you want to increase the likelihood that they’ll keep them on, take advantage of COCOSAND’s neoprene elastic strap.
Sizing: 0 to 24 months
Best budget-friendly baby sunglasses
- Least expensive pair on our list
- Rubber temples are super comfortable for delicate baby skin
- Frames are 100 percent polycarbonate plastic and incredibly easy to wipe clean
- Don’t come with a strap for secure fastening
These trendy sunnies are ideal for all of your festive summer celebrations. Better yet, these glasses are cheap, but they still don’t skimp on protection: The shatter-proof lenses protect against 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays, and the style is also available in a trendy wood pattern.
Sizing: 0 to 3T
The best toddler sunglasses meet a lot of the same criteria as the best baby sunglasses. You’ll want lenses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays, along with frames that will feel comfortable on your child’s face. Eye coverage is important, as well as a snug fit—although they don’t necessarily need to fit as firmly as baby sunglasses. Given that toddlers love to handle (and throw) things, flexible frames and sturdy lenses are a plus. Consider these toddler sunglasses for your little one.
Overall best toddler sunglasses
- Frames are made from carefully chosen, BPA-free materials
- Each pair includes a protective microfiber carrying pouch and strap
- Four different sizes means you can outfit the entire sibling squad!
- One-year warranty (and free replacement) comes only after registering the sunglasses within 30 days of your purchase
- Pricey
How cute are these petite wayfarer-style polarized toddler sunglasses? They provide 100 percent UVA and UVB protection and come with bendable frames, impact-resistant lenses and even an adjustable strap. They’re available in sizes for kids ages 0 to 12 years old, and truly, the unboxing moment is a treat in and of itself. Plus, as much as we love the sophistication of the brand’s best-selling Tortoise Shell colorway, we’re even more excited about their newest tie-dye collection launch.
Sizing: 0-12 months to 7-12 years
Best toddler girl sunglasses
- 100 percent UVA/UVB protection
- Includes microfiber pouch and cleaning cloth
- A little pricey
The most fashion-forward girl on the block will be rocking these retro-style, cat-eye heart shades. But they're not just an iconic look; GlamBaby was founded by a clinical optometrist (who also happens to be a mom herself) with the express mission of promoting eye health in children. These stylish frames are made from durable, lightweight acetate, and the lenses offer 100 percent UV protection.
Sizing: 6 months to 7 years
Best toddler boy sunglasses
- Flexible, rubber-like frame
- Polarized lenses
- Special warranty replaces lost sunglasses at a discount
- Some parents say the sizes run small
Minishades offers sizes up to three and seven years, giving kids plenty of coverage over time. These sunglasses offer 100 percent UV protection, with a rubber-like frame that’s especially handy for kids who tend to be tough on their gear. Polarized lenses help your child get a clear view, and Minishades offers a cool Hide ‘n Seek warranty, where the company will replace your child’s lost sunglasses for $7.95. While that’s admittedly not free, it’s still less than what you’d typically pay for a new replacement pair.
Sizing: 3 to 7 years
Best budget-friendly toddler sunglasses
- Fun style available in a slew of colors
- Soft feel kids can wear for longer periods of time
- Comes in a gift box
- No included strap to hold them in place
SOJOS sunglasses have an upscale look and feel that's surprising, given their price tag. These stylish shades feature polarized lenses with 99.99 percent UVA and UVB protection. The round style comes in a slew of attention-grabbing shades, including beige, black, brown, pink, green and yellow, allowing you to customize your toddler’s sunglasses to their outfit. Made of a soft plastic, the frames are comfortable enough for extended wear. Worth noting: The sunglasses come in a microfiber pouch and whimsical box that kids will love unboxing.
Sizing: N/A
In short, yes, they absolutely do. Babies may squint and close their eyes to intentionally block out the sun’s harmful rays, but their eyelids are thin, delicate and unable to filter out the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays as effectively as older teens and adults.
Children are also at a greater risk for retinal damage from UV rays, according to Phillips-Walker. Why? Their pupils are larger and the lens inside the eye is clearer, allowing more absorption of UV radiation into the eye. Even just one day of sun without protection can lead to irreversible UV damage.
Babies under 6 months should ideally be kept out of the sun as much as possible, protected from the sun with umbrellas, canopies, breathable blankets and sun hats that can adequately shade their eyes and the rest of their face. They can also wear UV-resistant clothing and swimsuits as an added veil of protection, but the more time they can spend out of direct sunlight, the better.
Once babies hit that half-year mark, though, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) green-lights the use of sunglasses. The AAO recommends that they be paired with brimmed hats and dermatologist-approved sunblocks. Most high-quality sunglasses will meet those precautionary benchmarks, but if you’re not shopping from a professional eyewear destination or purchasing from an ophthalmologist, you’ll need to weed through any cheaply-made novelty pairs, which are rarely equipped with the requisite 99 or 100 percent UV protection.
We get it—choosing sunglasses for your baby or toddler can be tricky, and it’s hard to know how to choose the best pair for your little one. To streamline your search for the best baby and toddler sunglasses, we browsed top-rated designs from leading brands and trusted online retailers. This way you can count on getting the best bang for your buck.
When sourcing baby and toddler sunglasses for our roundup, we spoke with a pediatrician to understand what features are necessary for babies and toddlers, and considered durability, UV protection, warranty policy and, of course, safety. We read user reviews to understand how these sunglasses have worked for families, and didn’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating.
Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
Alexis Phillips-Walker, DO, is a pediatrician at Memorial Hermann Medical Group Pediatrics in Atascocita, Texas. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame and Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, she completed her residency at Authority Health/Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
American Academy of Ophthalmology, How old do you have to be to wear sunglasses?, March 2017
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