June 27th is International Sunglasses Day, a fabulous opportunity to treat yourself and the kids to some cool shades, and to also learn the importance of protecting your eyes.

A great pair of sunglasses is the ultimate summer accessory, and we’ve spotted LOADS of different pairs to suit all tastes. What we often overlook, however, is why we wear them. Why is it important to shade our eyes during bright sunshine? Well…

According to the NHS, it’s important to shade our eyes because;

Reflected sunlight can cause a temporary burn to the surface of the eye, similar to sunburn.
Reflected sunlight from snow, sand, water and artificial sunbeds is a particular risk for this.
Looking directly at the sun can cause permanent eye damage.

So, with this in mind, you should invest in a good quality & trendy pair of sunglasses. What different strength protection is there available?

Sunglasses lense protection explained…

The lenses are usually designed to filter UV light and protect our eyes, as UV light can cause damage. UV light is a ‘high-energy’ ray so exposure needs to be carefully limited. UV light is split into three different categories and tends to be an ‘umbrella term’;

UVA (the most speculated about with regards to what sort of damage it causes)
UVB (the most dangerous)
UVC, which our atmosphere blocks.

These rays are at their most intense between 10 am and 2 pm, so this is when it’s best to avoid direct sunlight and be the most wary of ensuring proper protection (although before and after this time is also advisable too!), and also ensure that you’re careful around reflected light as this is also dangerous to eye health.

If you want to learn more about different types of lenses and their benefits, this guide from All About Vision is brilliant.

You’ll often find that sunglasses come in four filter categories from 0 to 4, or if not, are labelled with the amount of UV protection they provide as a percentage.

Filter category 0: Fashion glasses
These are not sunglasses, as they have a very low ability to reduce sun glare. They provide limited or no UV protection and are usually just for show/dressing up.
Filter category 1: Fashion glasses
Like category 0 lenses, these are not classes as sunglasses but they do provide limited sun glare reduction and some UV protection. Fashion glasses with category 1 lenses shouldn’t be worn when driving in the dark.
Filter category 2: Sunglasses
These sunglasses provide a medium amount of glare reduction and good UV protection.
Filter category 3: Sunglasses
These sunglasses provide a high level of glare reduction and good level of UV protection. This is the MOST COMMON category for sunglasses purchased on the high street and online.
Filter category 4: Sunglasses
These are specialised sunglasses that provide a very high level of sun glare reduction and good UV protection. They’re usually for people with certain jobs and medical conditions. Never wear them while driving, you’ll be at risk of causing an accident.

Here are our top picks for the entire family… All picks comply with standard BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013.

Our favourite trendy sunglasses for kids

These awesome sunglasses picks will protect little eyes, as well as looking super cool on the playground, at the beach, and on the go this summer!

Find the Mirrored Sports Wrap Sunglasses here* – 100% UVA & UVB protection. Part of the Boots buy 1 get one 1/2 price deal!

Find the Mirrored Dark Tortoise Frame Sunglasses here* – 100% UVA & UVB protection. Part of the Boots buy 1 get one 1/2 price deal!

Find the Navy Wayfarer Sunglasses here*. 100% UV protection.

Find the Aviator Style Sunglasses here*. Filter category 3 – meaning good level of UV and glare protection.

The best kids novelty sunglasses

If your little one favours funky and unique accessories, we’ve got you covered with these AMAZING finds, which all also provide excellent protection for their eyes.

Find the Flamingo Sunglasses here* – Filter 3 category.

Find the Heart Sunglasses here* – Filter 3 category.

Find the Pineapple Sunglasses here* – Filter 3 category.

Find the Glitter Flower Sunglasses here – Filter 3 category.

The best sunglasses for mummies

Ok mummies, so the kids are sorted, what about you? You’ll need great eye protection for the school run, or out and about. If you’ve got a holiday booked, that’s another valid reason to invest in a gorgeous pair of sunglasses.

Find the Multi Floral D-Frame Sunglasses here*. Category 3 filter.

Find the Pink/Purple Aviators here*. Category 3 filter.

Find the Aviator Style Rose Gold Round Sunglasses here*. Category 3 filter.

Find the Preppy Light Blue/Clear Frame Sunglasses here*. Category 3 filter.