14 Kids’ Sunglasses They’ll Wear Everywhere This Summer
When the sun comes out, so should the shades. But finding the perfect pair for your child? No easy feat. You want kids’ sunglasses that’ll stay on and stay intact, no matter what your munchkin gets up to this summer. Well it’s your lucky day, because we’ve got some awesome buying tips and recommendations right ahead. Whether you’re all about style or more focused on function, these sunglasses for kids are sure to please.
Not sure what to look for in kids’ sunglasses? Not a problem. Just keep this advice in mind:
- Style matters. The best way to keep your kid from losing their shades? Buying them a pair they actually like and want to keep around.
- Consider the circumstances. Choosing the right style isn’t all about taste. Think about why your kid needs sunglasses too. Purchasing a pair of performance eyewear for outdoor activities? Try kids’ sport sunglasses that rest closer to (and around) the eyes to shield from things like dirt. Searching for a cheap pair you can bring along on a beach vacation? Anything that protects against UVA/UVB rays should suffice.
- Fit is everything. It’s tough to find truly unbreakable kids’ sunglasses, but there are other ways to keep the shades in one piece. Make sure they fit snugly but comfortably so they don’t fall off. They should also adequately cover your kiddo’s eyes. This is important both for sun protection and so they can see properly! Not all styles are advertised with age ranges (plus, heads come in many shapes and sizes) so this could involve some trial and error. When in doubt, order a few options and return whatever doesn’t work out.
Overall best kids' sunglasses
- Polarized lenses
- Available in several colorways
- Pricey
When looking for the best sunglasses for kids, you want something that will protect their eyes, that’s comfortable to wear and that makes them feel fashionable and fun! These sunnies from Polaroid check all the boxes. They’re made of easy-to-wear rubber and have 100 percent UV protection, plus an on-trend round shape and cool color-block style your kid will love!
Size range: One size | Polarized: Yes
Best prescription kids’ sunglasses
- Cool retro style
- Trusted brand
- Wire frames may be hard for some kids to wear
A twist on their iconic aviators, these kids’ Ray Ban sunglasses are both cool and timeless. The square-shape sunnies are available in six different shades, so you’ll find a pair that works, whether you’ve got a more classic kind of kiddo or one that wants a little flare in the form of sleek silver or a pop of pink. And if you’re looking for non-prescription sunglasses, they have that option too!
Size range: M (120 mm) | Polarized: No
Best kids' baseball sunglasses
- Feature UV Protection
- Very lightweight
- Nose bridge may not fit all faces
- Pricey
This brand means business when it comes to sports sunglasses, and that extends to its youth collection. These kids’ Oakley sunglasses are by far the best thanks to their wraparound design with optimized coverage, strong yet light frames and earsocks and nose pads that mold to the face to provide increased comfort while your kiddo runs their heart out.
Size range: M (120 mm) | Polarized: No
Best kids' polarized sunglasses
- Flexible rubber frames
- Shatter-free lenses
- Some reviewers say they run small
Kids’ polarized sunglasses protect against glares, which is especially helpful near reflective surfaces like the ocean. When it comes to color, you don’t always have to go for the typical blue when picking out a polarized pair—these sunnies from Babiator come in a cool seafoam green and pretty pink.
Size range: 0 to 6 years | Polarized: Yes
Best kids' designer sunglasses
- Unique frame shape
- Expensive
If you’re up for a splurge, these adorable geometric shades from Versace—yes, Versace—will take any of your kids’ outfits to the next level. On-trend and fun, these statement-making kids’ designer sunglasses come in five colors and are nothing short of très chic.
Size range: S (114 mm) | Polarized: No
Best durable kids' sunglasses
- UV400 sun protection
- FDA-approved, impact-resistant lenses
- Made for younger kids
Reviewers rave about the durability of these glossy blue frames with polarized lenses, while kids just think they’re extra fun! What kid doesn’t love rainbows? But if they happen not to be into this color scheme, you can just design your own pair of the best durable kids' sunglasses.
Size range: One size (1 to 5 years old) | Polarized: Yes
Best budget-friendly kids' sunglasses
- Durable frame
- Stylish cat-eye shape
- Case not included
If you’re looking for a pair of cheap kids’ sunglasses (we’re talking price, not quality!) that are still stylish and well made, Target has you covered. These tortoise shell glasses from Art Class are perfect for the kid who’s sick of all the childlike styles and wants a pair of chic glasses like their parents might wear—luckily for you, they’re a fraction of the price that yours might cost!
Size range: N/A | Polarized: No
Best kids' clip-on sunglasses
- TriAcetate Cellulose lens and UV Protection Coating
- Available in seven shades
- Matching them with the glasses can be a bit tricky
Does your kid wear glasses but also need something that’ll protect their eyes when they step outside? These lightweight polarized kids’ clip-on sunglasses will do the trick. They can easily carry them around in their backpack and just clip them onto their glasses when they head out to lunch. Best of all, they’re super affordable!
Size range: N/A | Polarized: Yes
Best kids' sunglasses with strap
- Ergonomic design
- Made with lightweight, environmentally safe material
- Some reviewers say the lenses get scratched easily
Losing glasses is just one of those things that’s bound to happen (especially for kids!), but you can try and beat the odds with one of the best kids' sunglasses with straps. This pair, which features 100 percent UV400 eye protection, is both fun and functional. Your kiddo will love all the color combos, and you’ll love the soft yet durable silicon material and the eyewear rope that’ll keep them from disappearing.
Size range: One size | Polarized: Yes
Picking out sunglasses for your kids should be fun, not stressful, but if you’re looking for a specific kind it’s always nice to have a little help. That’s where we come in. We’ve narrowed down some of the best sunglasses for kids out there, so you can pick out what style suits your kiddo best.
When selecting the sunglasses, we considered their size, their UV protection and whether or not they’re polarized. We also made sure to read user reviews to see what real consumers have experienced when buying these sunnies, 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.
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