Our Favorite New Sunglasses for 2020
There's a sleek new pair of stylish shades for every budget here.
Basking in the sun means shielding yourself from UV rays. But it’s also an opportunity to show off your personal style. We’ve chosen some new frames that are not only functional, but offer a flourish or two to help you stand out, no matter how bright the rays.
The Bold Blockers
Grab some attention while you’re catching rays with this bright pair of beam-blockers. The “Grilamid” construction will help them last longer—but at the low end of our price range you won’t need a loan to re-up.
The Retro Rockers
A classic in the Smith line since 1988, these frames are timeless. The only update: the carbonic lens, which is impact-resistant, and the range of colors to choose from.
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The Rogue’s Specs
This upstart California brand launched in 2009 and continues to churn out silhouettes just this side of edgy—but with classic Acetate materials and color palettes. They’re perfect for adventurous souls who actually, you know, go on adventures.
The Barely-There Pair
Uncomplicated and (relatively) cheap, these fold-flat glasses nearly disappear when they’re tucked into their slim holding case. We love them for impromptu excursions and for keeping handy in the glovebox or backpack in case of emergency sunshine.
The Italian Afternooners
Combining the angular shape of a wayfarer with the sleek metal temple pieces of an aviator, Maho’s classic Positano has exceptionally flattering lines. Sturdy barrel hinges and acetate frames keep things functional and lightweight with these vacation- (or staycation-) ready shades.
The Clear Winners
A West Coast company that moved from San Francisco’s Outer Sunset neighborhood up to Portland, OR, Sunski first caught our attention for their stylish but affordable frames. Now they’re moving up into the so-called “premium” market, which still underprices other brands by $100 or more. This clear-framed polarized set-up caught our eyes for its classic styling and included hardcase.
The Free Soloists
Armless sunglasses: They’re a thing! We love this upstart brand for its adventurous roots—this silhouette reminds us of classic hiking frames, shaped to block out side-light—and for the innovative pull-to-tighten cinch mechanism that doubles as a neckstrap when not in use. When you’re on the go as much as we are, that’s a handy detail. Bonus: The company will plant 20 trees for every pair sold.
