Be wary of using ‘normal’ prescription lenses for sports use especially where impact protection is required such as tennis, clay target shooting and cricket. Virtually all prescription lenses made today use a material called CR-39 and it has certainly revolutionised lens making. However CR-39 does not provide a high level of impact protection and it can shatter. Lightweight, impact-resistant polycarbonate and Trivex lenses are the best choice for safety glasses, sports eyewear and children’s eyewear. Most opticians are not able to make prescription lenses from polycarbonate or Trivex but there are specialist manufacturing opticians that can. You will also come across plenty of online material claiming that polycarbonate provides a poor visual experience. Such views are out of date. Current generation polycarbonate lenses are typically Class 1 optical grade and the visual experience is excellent.

We are often asked about the Category of lenses used for sunglasses and eyewear – what do they mean. The categories range from 0 to 4 with each one covering a range of VLT (visible light transmission – basically how much light the lens lets through).

The vast majority of sunglasses are Category 3 and these have a VLT range of 8 – 17%. Blocking over 80% of light coming through makes them suitable for use in strong sun and for everyday recreational sunglasses.

Lighter lenses with high VLT (Cat. 0 & Cat. 1) will be used in low, dull and poor light conditions and for specific sports like clay target shooting.

Category 4 lenses are very dark, letting 8% or less of light – they are typically used at high altitude where glare can be intense with a high risk of photokeratitis (snow blindness). They are also suitable for eyes that are sensitive to light, a fairly common condition known as Photophobia. As the chart shows they should never be used for driving – they are too dark and therefore potentially dangerous. View our range of Category 4 sunglasses.

Enhanced UV protection

Full wrap, sports style sunglasses keep out the elements like sand, dust, grit and wind from getting into your eyes – potentially painful and dangerous. Importantly, unlike “normal” leisure style sunglasses they also stop glare and UVR from coming in over the top and side of the frame. More and more consumers are now wearing sports/wrap-around style sunglasses for every-day wear as they provide enhanced protection from harmful UVR. In July 2022 the UK Met Office issued a public guidance notice recommending consumers adopt sports style sunglasses for every-day wear to provide greater UV protection.

Help for hay fever sufferers

One in five people in the UK suffer from hay fever, with the peak period (in the UK) being between March and September. There’s no cure but symptoms can be alleviated with antihistamine drops, tablets and sprays. Marc Donovan, chief pharmacist at Boots, has a top tip for hay fever sufferers, Marc said, “Wrap-around sunglasses can be a game-changer for hay fever sufferers. When you’re in and out of the garden, wear wraparound sunglasses to help prevent pollen from getting in and irritating your eyes”.

So, in a nutshell – the more coverage a sunglass provides the better it will protect your eyes.

On your overseas holiday this summer you’ll no doubt come across beach, street and market stall vendors selling sunglasses. Very rarely is it worth buying these, however cheap they are. Chances are the lenses will be poor quality with distortion – apart from blurry vison it may lead to eye strain. Worse still they may offer little or no UV protection – the dark lenses will cause your pupils to dilate allowing more UV light into your eyes which is worse than wearing no sunglasses at all.

Cheap sunglasses are also likely to be of poor-quality construction – they may break or fall apart after you’ve worn them just a few times. So our advice is to steer clear of street vendors – always buy a from an established, reputable outlet that sells CE marked, UV400 rated sunglasses.

Cleaning

Don’t use a handkerchief or corner of a shirt/blouse. These can contain particles of dust and dirt which can scratch your lenses when you start rubbing. Paper towels and napkins are just as bad. They’re essentially pulped wood and surprisingly abrasive whilst also leaving particles of dust on the lens.

Use a liquid for best results – condensation from your breath isn’t enough, even if you’re using a microfibre cloth. The simplest way is to rinse your sunglasses in warm (not hot) water. This is especially important if they’re covered in sand and salt from the beach. Run a bowl of water and add a couple of drops of mild washing up liquid to it. Then simply give the sunglasses a good dunking to remove all the dirt, gently rub them with your fingers in the water and then dry with a clean, lint-free microfibre cloth. However, don’t apply washing up liquids – particularly citric ones – directly onto lenses as they can be abrasive, some containing salt.

Don’t forget to clean the frame too. When you wear your sunglasses, the areas most likely to be contaminated with grease, dirt and grime are the nose pads, temples and the frame surrounding the lenses.

Avoid household glass cleaners: general purpose household glass cleaners can contain vinegar, ammonia or even bleach – making these cleaners too ‘aggressive’ as they can strip away mirror or anti-reflective lens coatings. Use an eyewear lens cleaner – we have several options available in our accessories section.

Many sunglass models are supplied with a microfibre soft pouch: a good tip is before you take the eyewear out of the pouch use the inside of the pouch to clean the lenses (not the outside of the pouch as it might contain small particles of dust/dirt).

Avoiding scratches

Almost all lenses made today are non-glass: the most common materials in use being plastic, CR39, polycarbonate, Triacetate (TAC) or Trivex. All these materials, even with anti-scratch or hard lens coatings can scratch – mirror lens coatings are especially prone to scratching. The best way to avoid this happening is to keep your eyewear in a soft pouch (supplied with most sunglasses) and preferably a hard case when not in use.   

Loads of new stock just arrived – including 2024 models – from two of our American brands: Eagle Eyes based in Calabasas, California and Floats based in Miami, Florida. Both specialise in polarized sunglasses but they’re very different!

Eagle Eyes

Eagle Eyes lenses were originally created by NASA and have earned official recognition from the Space Certification Program; the only sunglass lens to receive the Lifetime Certified Space Technology™ seal of approval. NASA polarized optic technology blocks out 99.9% harmful UVA & UVB radiation plus scattered blue light: – premium lenses that enhance clarity, definition and colour. Virtually all models are under £50 and they all come with a hard case – excellent value for money.

Floats

We started selling Floats in 2008 and its long been one our best-selling brands. Frames and lenses are both superb quality. Floats polarized lenses lenses are Class 1 optical grade, UV400 rated and block all glare. We carry a very extensive range in both sport and leisure styles. Most models are under £40 – brilliant value.

It’s been a busy last 6 months for our sister company Evolution Eyewear with several new models introduced – here’s a quick overview of them:

Match

Evolution’s first ever photochromic model with lenses that automatically adjust to changing light (Cat. 0 to Cat.3). Amazing value at just £34.95.

Windward

Stylish sports polarised sunglass with blue mirror finish, also available as a prescription version: priced at just £19.95 and £24.95 – terrific value!

Storm

Ballistic eyewear, fully certified to EN166FT, Storm is loaded with features such as an “unbreakable” nylon frame, anti-fog coating to the lenses and optional strap (supplied). Individual colours at £17.50 each and a 3 Lens Set at £54.95.

Rapide

Shooting Eyewear – improved, updated design providing a universal fit. Available at just £19.95 each for (six) individual colours and 4 colour bundle at £64.95. Probably the best value shooting eyewear available in the UK.

Carmel

Featuring polycarbonate polarised lenses providing full impact protection, it’s a true cross-over leisure-sport model. Superb looking, the glare blocking lenses are available with brown lenses or smoke lenses with a blue mirror finish. At just £29.95 it’s one of the lowest priced polycarbonate polarised models available in the UK.        

Sunshine in mid-May in the UK is just as strong as that in mid-August so skin is now vulnerable to sunburn. It’s worth remembering that the strength of the sun isn’t linked to temperature, so you can still burn even on a cold day.

When the UV Index reaches 3 or more – even on cloudy days – wearing sunscreen and sunglasses is strongly advised, especially for children. At present the UV Index in the UK is around 4. Some conditions can amplify the UV index, such as a beach. White sands can nearly double UV exposure as the sun reflects off the surface.

It’s also worth noting that our eyes are ten times more sensitive to UV light than our skin and children’s eyes are at the greatest risk of UV damage, so protection from UV by wearing good quality (UV400 rated) sunglasses when outdoors in the summer is essential to avoid long-term eye damage and the risk of skin cancer resulting from harmful UVR.

It isn’t often we take on a new brand – but our new arrival was an opportunity to add something different. Bliz is a Swedish eyewear maker that offers high performance sunglasses and ski goggles at affordable prices. Starting out in 2007 with an initial focus on snow sports, Bliz was soon adopted by professional athletes across the world winning multiple Olympic gold medals. The range has expanded enormously over the years aimed at all outdoor activities; now one of the fastest-growing sport brands in Europe.

Bliz’s mission is to create technical products for everyone that values the combination of Scandinavian design, cutting edge performance and unmatched value for money. 

Another new delivery! This time from Swiss brand INVU – one the fastest growing eyewear brands of the last 10 years. We took INVU on shortly after they started up in 2013 as they are terrific value for money: all models have a proprietary nine-layer lens polarized lens that features colour enhancement, high impact resistance and scratch resistance alongside glare reduction. The graphic shows how this unique polarized lens is made up.
Our new delivery includes many brand new 2024 models. Virtually all models are under £30 and many under £20 and they all come with a high quality hard case. We have both sport and leisure styles available – see them here.

Around now we take in new deliveries from our many suppliers, ahead of our busiest time of the year. Just arrived in the last few weeks we have new stock from:

Montana

Swiss designed, a very extensive range of amazing value polarised sunglasses – every one under £15!

Sea-River

From France, a great range of sport polarised sunglasses including photochromic polarised models at under £40!

Sunwise

Super quality sports sunglasses including 4 Lens Interchange Sets at just £39.95!

And in the next few weeks we’ll have brand new 2024 models from Oakley, Bollé and Serengeti, so please check back with us!

A question we’re often asked (especially at exhibitions) is what are the different lens colours for – what do they do? So, here’s a quick overview of lens colours and their uses.

Grey – the most popular, widely used colour, it reduces/dulls light and does not increase contrast. Used in bright sun/bright light conditions.

Brown – the second most popular colour, it’s equally good for strong sun but gives a “warm” field of view and will add contrast.

G15/Green – the colour originally created by RayBan for their first iconic pilot aviator style sunglasses. Good alternative to grey and adds contrast.

Amber, Vermillion & Light Brown – good all-round colours for most light including variable conditions and they also add contrast.

Yellow – ideal for low/poor light, low visibility, and cloudy conditions or darker conditions like riding in shaded/wooded areas. Can be used for driving in low light (twilight) and under street lights but not recommended for driving when there is no light.

Clear – For protecting eyes from impact, grit/dust, dirt or abrasion.

Red, Rose & Orange – High-definition, higher contrast lens colours suited to overcast conditions. These colours filter out blue light which means the field of vision will appear in “sharper” focus. Good when eyes are tired. Popular for shooting, cycling, skiing and golf.

Purple – Great all-round colour for most light conditions, it gives a ‘soothing’ tone making it ideal for extended wear comfort. Very popular with clay target shooters and gaining a following with golfers.

Costa Sunrise Silver Mirror lenses will enhance vision in low light conditions. With a 25% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) they will help to amplify brightness during dusk and dawn activities, providing heightened contrast and superior visibility.

Also featuring Costa’s multi-patented 580® lens technology. The premium polarised lenses enhance colours while absorbing harmful high-energy blue light, transforming your overcast and low-light adventures – whether that is fishing, kayaking, or boating. By cutting glare, polarised lenses allow you to see below the water, and reduce distractions & eye fatigue.

Costa Pro series

Discover Costa Pro Series polarised sunglasses with added performance features for the ultimate fishing sunglasses.

Fully-adjustable nose pads

Ventilated nose pads, fully adjustable for a customisable fit. Will help to reduce fogging so you see better in every weather.

Hooding and side shields

Rubber side shields keep light from leaking in and distracting you, so your focus stays fixed on finding fish.

Eyewire drains

Designed to help keep sweat and water from pooling up inside the frame, making sure there’s nothing in the way of your view.

Sweat management channels

Help to move sweat and water away from your eyes so you can see things like fish.

Metal keeper slots

Help to keep your sunglasses secure by attaching some keepers/retainer strap and keep fishing  – instead of trying to look overboard for your sunglasses!

Improved hydrolite

Hydrolite is a rubbery substance that gets stickier the wetter it gets. Costa’s improved formula is more durable.

If you’re going skiing this winter will you take a pair of ski goggles or sunglasses? 25 years ago most skiers wore sunglasses and a minority wore goggles; but the huge growth of snowboarding coupled with greater awareness of the risk of head damage has meant the opposite now applies – the majority wear goggles.

By necessity helmets are worn by all snowboarders and more progressive, accomplished skiers tackling challenging snow runs and going off-piste. And helmets and goggles go together, but some skiers do wear sunglasses with helmets. Skiers that are not intending to tackle black runs all day and are content with more “sedate” skiing can quite happily get by with good quality sunglasses. And for some the ‘enclosed’ feel of goggles doesn’t feel comfortable and goggles can restrict peripheral vision.

Even at moderate speed cold air can cause the eyes to water so if you opt for sunglasses it’s worth looking out for a pair with a full frame (not half frame) that are close fitting and wrap-around style to keep out wind, sun glare and prevent UVR from coming in over the top and sides of the lenses. If you prefer to opt for goggles you’ll still need a good quality pair of sunglasses with you on your ski holiday.

We have a good choice of goggles available and a very extensive choice of sunglasses suitable for skiing, including Category 4 models for use in intense glare/high altitude conditions. Click here for our Snow Sports section

We have covered this subject before but it’s such a critical safety issue it’s worth revisiting – we’re at the time of the year when the sun is lower in the sky. For drivers a lower sun means it’s closer to eye level. And at this time of the year, low sun typically coincides with the morning and evening commute to work. You can easily be dazzled by the glare from a low sun: UK Government statistics indicate that low sun contributes to 3,000 car accidents a year of which over 400 will result in serious injury and 35 will be fatalities. Here are some sensible actions you can take to mitigate against the hazards of low sun when driving:

– Keep your windscreen clean inside and out.

– Increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.

– If blinded, slow down immediately. It is tempting to carry on regardless to let the glare pass but by then it may be too late.

– Wear polarised sunglasses – they are designed to cut glare and are recommended by the AA, RAC and other leading transport organisations..

It’s a long-standing debate and certainly not everyone agrees that yellow lenses are helpful for driving at night and to our knowledge there has not been any ‘definitive’ research undertaken. Some ‘experts’ claim they offer no benefit and others say they are essential for driving at night. In daylight a yellow lens is high contrast; a light “lifting”, light enhancing lens that’s ideal in dull, cloudy, overcast conditions. But the benefits of using a yellow lens for night driving are less clear cut. Here’s our take on the pros and cons of using a yellow lens for night driving:

– a yellow lens is still a tint and as such will limit some light entering the lenses so they cannot possibly be as good as a clear lens in dark, nighttime conditions with no ambient light

– as yellow is a very high contrast colour it will “sharpen” the field of vision – good if your eyes are tired

– if you are driving at dusk or twilight they will help

– they can help counter the dazzle caused by oncoming headlights especially the current generation of ultra bright headlamps used by car manufacturers

– on pitch dark, unlit roads a yellow lens will not help and is not advisable

Our sister company Evolution Eyewear has just launched another addition to its cycling range; called Aero and manufactured exclusively for the company. Evolution Aero cycling sunglasses have been designed specifically to appeal to cyclists and mountain bikers. Aero is available as an individual sunglass in two colour ways:

Evolution Aero (Black)

Matte Black frame with a Grey lens having a blue mirror finish

Evolution Aero (White)

White frame with Grey lens having a red-orange revo mirror finish

Evolution Aero cycling sunglasses feature a frame made from superior, high performance Rilsan G850: 45% renewable plant based, this high strength material is ideally suited to sports frames. Supplied with a detachable, adjustable strap to ensure you never lose your eyewear whatever the terrain throws at you.

Aero is an interchangeable model also available as a 3 Lens Set supplied with additional Orange & Clear lenses.

The new addition Aero is technically advanced, high specification cycling & MTB eyewear yet affordably priced and exceptional value for money. You can buy the individual sunglasses at just £24.95 and the interchangeable 3 Lens Sets at just £39.95. All options come with a detachable, adjustable strap, cleaning cloth, soft pouch and hard case.

We stock other Evolution cycling-specific sunglasses such as Pace, Velo, Chase and Dynamo. In addition to this we also stock other multi-sport sport models that will appeal to cyclists such as Rider, Tyrol, Trail and Track.

Evolution Cycling & MTB Sunglasses

Shop now

Fogged up lenses are the result of condensation, the simple chemical process that occurs when water vapor cools down enough to turn from a gas back into its liquid state. This can happen quite suddenly when there is a drastic difference between the temperature of the lens and the surrounding air. It often occurs when a cold lens is near to your warm face. Close fitting wrap-around sports eyewear is more prone to misting up because the warm air heated from your face  gets trapped behind the lens.

Typical scenarios for fogging up are:

Walking into a warm shop from a cold outdoor (cold lens/warm air). The reverse applies if you step from a cool air conditioned indoors to a warm outdoors (cold lens/warm air).

Putting on a pair of sunglasses left in the car overnight (cold lens/warm face)

Putting on a pair of sunglasses left in a kit bag (cold lens/warm face)

Anytime you’re outdoors and the surrounding air is colder than the heat from your face (cold lens/warm face)

When you wear a mask and your warm, moist breath is directed upward onto your glasses (warm breath/cold lens)   

If your sports eyewear has adjustable nose pads a useful tip is to pull the nose pads away from the lens. This allows more air to circulate around the lens so there is less difference between the temperate of the lens and the surrounding air – so no misting occurs. Some sports eyewear models come with a factory applied anti-fog lens coating – these can be very effective. Safety Eyewear typically has an anti-fog coating applied as fogging up at the wrong moment could be safety critical. There are also some highly effective anti-fog products available to apply to lenses. We sell a few a options. This pocket anti-fog solution from Evolution is very effective and it’s currently on offer.

Sunglasses For Sport sell a wide range of Category 4 sunglasses – probably the largest selection available in the UK. But what are they and where are they used?

What are Category 4 sunglasses

The lens category number equates to a percentage of the VLT (Visible Light Transmission) that is, how much light the lens lets through. The higher the VLT the lighter the lens, and conversely the lower the VLT the darker the lens tint will be, blocking more light coming through to the eye. A Category 4 lens lets in between 3-8% of light so it’s a very dark lens that can be in grey or brown tints.

Where are Category 4 sunglasses used

They are ideal for activities like skiing, mountain climbing, high altitude hiking and desert trekking: conditions where high glare or intense sunlight is experienced. Category 4 lenses are also suitable for eyes that are sensitive to bright light, a condition called photophobia. It’s a common symptom that’s associated with several different conditions, ranging from minor irritations to serious medical emergencies.

Can Category 4 sunglasses be used when driving

It’s important to know that you must not use Category 4 lenses for driving (they are too dark for driving and could invalidate your car insurance if worn while driving). You will no doubt have seen media scare stories saying you could get fined £5000 for wearing sunglasses whilst driving. These “click bait” stories usually fail to emphasise that the only sunglasses you could get fined for wearing are those with Category 4 lenses.

We’ve made it easy to see all our Category 4 options by putting them into one section.

We’ve just got back from exhibiting at the UK’s largest field sports event celebrating its 65th year: The Game Fair held at Ragley Hall near Stratford upon Avon.

Adam Henson, Britain’s best-known farmer and long-standing BBC Countryfile presenter, popped onto our stand. He visited us last year and bought a pair of Serengeti sunglasses which he said he loves. He wanted a pair for more everyday use and we showed him the new Evolution Carmel (made by our sister company Evolution Eyewear).

At £29.95 they are fantastic value as they have a TR90 frame and polarised polycarbonate lenses. He bought a pair and was really pleased with them – see picture! Thanks to Adam for letting us use his image.

If your summer holiday plans mean spending time on or near to water it’s a good idea to have polarised lenses for your sunglasses. You might have wondered how polarised sunglasses work and what causes glare on water.

Polarised Light

Light is made of particles called photons, which travel through space like a wave, zig-zagging back and forth on their way to your eye. Natural, unpolarized light consists of photons bouncing in many directions at once. But as soon as they strike a surface like water, road or snow piste, these light waves begin vibrating in one direction, usually horizontally. This polarised light is what causes the intense glare that can hurt your eyes and over time mean eye strain leading to headaches.

How polarised sunglasses work

The filters applied to polarised sunglass lenses absorb the horizontally-vibrating waves which means only vertically-vibrating waves get through the filter and reach your eye. This greatly reduces the intensity of reflective glare. Glare also distorts the true colour of objects and makes them harder to distinguish – with polarised sunglasses you get glare-free vision, clear contrasts and more natural colours.

And the good news is you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a polarised sunglass – we have over 700 to choose from with prices starting at less than £10.

A part of Bollé’s history and worn by the best athletes in the world, the Bollé Micro Edge sunglass is a symbol of the brand’s advanced design and creativity. Featuring a narrow shield lens and half-rim frame it is 100% focused on performance with an exceptional horizontal and peripheral field of vision. 

Ultra-comfortable, it has an adjustable nose piece and adjustable temples tips to guarantee a perfect fit. Light and flexible, with snap hinges and s-fit temples.

The Bollé Micro Edge is eco-designed with bio-based frame, temples and nose piece (made with renewable castor oil) while keeping the same performance and quality as regular nylon.

Micro Edge is available with both of Bollé’s proprietary lens technologies:  

• Volt+, the revolutionary polarised lens developed with artificial intelligence that increases colour perception by more than 30%. The Volt+ polarised lens reduces glare and enhances contrast.
• Phantom, the photochromic lens that provides striking optical clarity for unparalleled eye comfort.

Available in the new 2023 colourway – Creator Teal Metallic frame with Volt+ Ruby Polarised lens

Other Micro Edge models available

The UV Index (or UVI) is a standard international measure of ultraviolet radiation emitted by the Sun – which penetrates the Earth’s atmosphere and can cause sunburn. Index values start at zero and then can rise above 10.

The higher the UVI, the greater the potential for damage to the skin and eyes – and also the less time it takes for harm to occur. Over exposure of UV can lead to serious health issues such as skin cancers and eye damage that could result in cataracts and macular degeneration later in life.

The highest readings occur in the four-hour period around midday. Countries close to the equator can experience very high UV levels in the middle of the day throughout the year for example Nairobi in Kenya can see UV levels above 10 all year whilst Majorca in Spain, will normally hit nine in June and July. Here in the UK, UV levels reach their peak in the next few weeks. It used to be that an index of 8 in the UK was rare but now it’s more common and in the current dry spell we could even see it reach 9 in some parts of southern England and South Wales. The graphic shows the Index and when precautions should be taken; protection means wearing hats, sunglasses, applying suncream and light clothing to cover skin.

Just arrived and manufactured exclusively for our sister company, Evolution Eyewear Ltd:

Evolution Carmel

A terrific looking unisex cross-over sport-leisure sunglass, Evolution Carmel has a matte black frame and brown polarised polycarbonate (Category 3) lenses. As the lenses are made from polycarbonate the polarising film can never wear out and it also means the lenses are fully shatterproof and impact resistant.

The glare blocking lenses are Class 1 optical quality and UV400 rated. The full wrap fit keeps out wind, glare & UVR. The frame is made from super strong TR90 nylon that’s lightweight for all-day wear. Carmel is supplied with a soft carry pouch, cleaning cloth & hard case plus free polarised test card, all for just £29.95. 

Evolution Latitude (Camo)

Evolution Latitude is a great looking, sport style sunglass that’s already available in two colour variations: Black frame-Grey lenses & Tortoise frame–Brown lenses. Now we’ve added a third colour: a ‘Camo’ frame with brown polarised lenses.

All three colour variations have high-quality glare blocking lenses with frames made from super strong but lightweight TR90: just £19.95 each!

Evolution Track

Evolution Track is a multi-sport sunglass with frames made from TR90 and Class 1 optical quality, UV400 rated lenses. The shatterproof, impact resistant lenses are UV400 rated. It’s an interchangeable model with super quick and easy lens changing. Track is sold as a stand-alone sunglass and multi-lens set. The four options are:

We first started selling Floats sunglasses in 2008 and it’s one of our favourite brands! Floats, based in South Beach, Florida, specialise in superior quality yet highly affordable polarised sunglasses in both sport and leisure styles. The glare blocking lenses are Class 1 and optically correct and the frames lightweight but strong and very comfortable to wear.

We’ve just taken delivery of over 12 brand new 2023 models: at under £30 they are exceptional value for money. View all Floats sunglasses.

We’ve just taken delivery of numerous brand new 2023 Sea River sunglasses. The French Sea River brand specialise in good quality but affordably priced polarised sunglasses – most models around £20. They feature strong/durable frames and high-quality glare blocking lenses. Included are several polarised photochromic sunglasses – at under £40 amongst the lowest prices polarised photochromic sunglasses available – anywhere.

See the new 2023 Sea-River sunglasses.

We’ve just taken delivery of several new 2023 Montana sunglasses – both sports & leisure styles. All  models are under £15 – fantastic value for money.

The Montana brand belongs to one of Europe’s largest eyewear companies, with all models are created by the company’s Swiss-based design team. Every model features glare-blocking, UV400 rated polarised lenses with lightweight frames for all-day wear – and they all come with a high quality protective pouch. Check out Montana sunglasses.

Cycling sunglasses don’t have to be out of your budget. We have put together a selection of cycling eyewear suitable for all budgets, starting at under £25 for entry level sunglasses. All of our cycling eyewear has UV400 rated lenses, and impact resistant lenses to protect your eyes from gravel and grit. Whether you just want an inexpensive pair of cycling sunglasses or you wanted to spend over £100 on the latest high performance cycling sunglasses, we will have something for you. Check out our selection below.

Cycling sunglasses under £25

Evolution Pace cycling sunglasses feature a large shield lens for complete eye protection and to keep out wind & glare. Impact resistant, shatterproof polycarbonate lenses with  Hydrophobic (water) & Oleophobic (oil) lens coatings repel water, dust, oil, fingerprints smudges and dirt. Slim profile, straight temples are ideal for wearing with cap or helmet.

Sunwise Enforcer  is lightweight for all-day wear, and features impact resistant, shatterproof polycarbonate lenses. With non-slip nose pads and hi-grip temple tips for a secure fit.

Bloc Fox KARBON TX™ injected frame is flexible, durable & lightweight. With impact resistant, shatterproof polycarbonate lenses, and adjustable nose pads & non-slip temples. 

Cycling sunglasses £25 – £50

Tifosi Alliant has a full wrap fit to keep out wind & glare, and a lightweight but super strong Grilamid TR-90 frame.  Hydrophilic rubber ear and nose pieces provide a no-slip fit, and adjustable nose and arm pieces give a comfortable, customised fit. The vented lenses increase air circulation and help to prevent fogging. Alliant is available with Enliven Red lens, a versatile all-weather high contrast specialist cycling lens, or interchangeable 3 lens sets.

UVEX Sportstyle 227 has a 10 base, full wrap fit for total eye protection and unrestricted field of vision. Impact resistant shatterproof polycarbonate lenses with uvex supravision® anti-fog coating: guaranteed condensation free. Adjustable nose pads, and malleable temple tips adjust for grip & comfort. Hydrophobic lens coating: water & moisture repellent, smudge & fingerprint resistant and easy lens cleaning.

Cebe Aspahlt is a mono shield sunglass for an XXL field of view. Impact resistant, shatterproof polycarbonate lenses also with anti-scratch lens coating. Ultra lightweight but super strong TR90 frame with  non-slip nose pads and temple tips. Double injected frame for maximum comfort and no pressure points.

Cycling sunglasses £50-£100

Bollé Shifter, Lightshifter & C-Shifter cycling sunglasses feature shatterproof, impact resistant lenses. Vented lens to help prevent fogging. S-curved temples for the ultimate fit. Super strong but lightweight TR90 frame. Thermogrip nose pads and temple tips for additional grip.

Oakley Sutro is designed with performance in mind, Oakley Sutro gives cyclists a bold and versatile look that they can confidently wear on and off the bike. Prizm ™ lenses are designed to enhance colour, contrast and detail. Impact protection against high-velocity and high-mass impact. Durability and all-day comfort of lightweight O Matter ™ frame material. Unobtainium ™ nosepads increase grip with perspiration to help keep the eyewear securely in place.

Cycling sunglasses over £100

Icarus is Bollé’s new ultra light frameless model, 23 grams of pure performance. Great stability is ensured by the use of Thermogrip® rubber on both the S-Fit temples and the nose pad. Available with Phantom lens, the most advanced photochromic lens on the market.

Oakley Encoder is a high performance sunglass with a progressive wrap style creating a unique look with superior coverage and enhanced field of view. Designed with hat and helmet functionality in mind. The extended wrap of the lens, together with calibrated rigidity and low-profile temples make Encoder an obvious choice for cycling. Oakley’s exclusive Prizm lens technology designed to enhance colour and contrast so you can see more detail.

Check out our sale with up to 60% off. Big discounts on many brands including Oakley, Bollé, Uvex, Serengeti and Tifosi. Shop all sale sunglasses 

Shop sale sunglasses by brand

Oakley

Bollé

Uvex

Serengeti

Tifosi

Shop sale sunglasses by price

Under £20

£20 – £50

Over £50

We have just added a selection of new Costa polarised sunglasses, including sports and lifestyle models. We also have a special discount available on Costa sunglasses – keep reading to the end for the discount code.

Costa polarised sunglasses feature their colour enhancing 580 lens technology, keeping the bad light out, and letting the good light in. The result: less haze, less blur, greater contrast and greater clarity. 

Costa offer a range of styles for men and women. Costa sunglasses are made for those with an everyday outdoor lifestyle, including activities like fishing, boating and watersports. All Costa sunglasses feature polarised lenses which block reflected glare allowing you to see below the surface of the water.

New in Costa sunglasses

Costa Palmas

Featuring Costa’s polarised and colour-enhancing 580 lens technology, premium integrated metal hinges and interior detailing, Palmas is guaranteed to set you apart from the crowd.

Costa Jose Pro

Costa Jose Pro brings next level performance features to it’s best selling Jose sunglass. The Jose Pro frame builds off the original with six performance additions to help anglers manage sweat, reduce fogging and keep their frames locked in place, even when the water gets rough.

Costa Irie

Irie makes a statement with unique keyhole bridge and round lens style. Featuring Costa’s polarised and colour enhancing lenses.

Costa Paunch XL

Paunch XL is a slightly larger fit than the original Paunch sunglasses, maintaining the same features but for those who like a larger fit. Featuring Costa’s polarised and colour enhancing lenses, intergrated metal hinges and non-slip Hydrolite nose pads.

Costa Sunglasses discount

We have a special offer on Costa sunglasses – you can get a 10% discount when you buy any Costa sunglasses.

Use code COSTA10 at checkout to get your 10% discount. Offer ends 30.11.22. Not valid with other discount codes.

Plus get free UK delivery on all Costa sungalsses.

This is a story we have covered before but always worth revisiting – low sun at this time of the year typically coincides with rush hour in the morning and evening. Blinding sun and road glare while driving continues to play a significant role in car accidents – nearly 1 in 30 are directly attributable to dazzling sun, resulting in 491 severe road accidents (killed or seriously injured) in 2021 (just in the UK).

The AA has just issued some timely guidance, urging drivers to always keep a pair of sunglasses ready to hand in the car. Sean Sidley from the AA said, “Glare, when the sun is low in the sky, is more likely to be a problem at this time of year. Always keep sunglasses within easy reach when driving. You may need to use the sun visors, so keep them free from objects”.

What sunglasses are best for road glare?

The best sunglasses to help reduce glare when driving have polarised lenses. Polarised sunglasses are specifically designed to cut reflected glare, especially the harsh road glare caused by sunlight striking a wet road. Polarised lenses can also help improve contrast giving you an improved view.

Good quality polarised sunglasses are not expensive – we have hundreds to choose from, many under £20.

But if you take your driving seriously buy a pair of Serengeti sunglasses – widely recognised as the world’s best sunglasses for driving.

Bollé Icarus, the new ultra-lightweight frameless cycling sunglass – 23g of pure performance. A sports performance cycling sunglass from Bollé, available with Volt+ the revolutionary colour boosting lens, and Phantom advanced photochromic lens.

Icarus features Bollé’s signature s-fit temples. The distinctive curved design lessens the pressure on the temples. This provides you with better comfort and stability while keeping it steady on your face. The s-fit temples also allow space for your helmet strap. Thermogrip rubber on the nose pads and temples give you better grip and stability during action.

A shield lens with 6-base wrap protects your eyes from wind and debris. While lens vents allow good airflow to prevent fogging up.

Available with Phantom photochromic lenses and Volt+, Bollé’s revolutionary high contrast polarised lens.

Bollé Phantom Photochromic lenses

Bollé Phantom lenses are a combination of 3 advanced technologies that revolutionise how you see your environment. Made with NXT® material for enhanced definition and a molecular photochromic filter that adapts to all light conditions. Also incorporates a high-contrast filter for improved colour and depth perception.

Bollé Volt + Polarised lenses

A high contrast, colour enhancing lens that improves depth perception. The first lens ever developed with artificial intelligence. The Bollé Volt+ polarised lens provides high contrast and enhanced colours without compromising white balance (where the image looks more natural).

Bollé cycling sunglasses.

Bollé performance cycling sunglasses are athlete proven. Bollé work with athletes because athletes work with them. Bollé athletes actually help design, test and improve their cycling sunglasses meaning they outperform all expectations in competition. Bollé cycling sunglasses are road tested by their athletes so you know you can count on them to perform.

Bollé Icarus sunglasses

We try not to put up prices – in spite of multiple price rises from suppliers in the last 18 months we have done our best to avoid passing these on. The vast majority of our prices are the same as they were at least 3 years ago. In fact we have more lower priced options than we’ve ever had.

Right now in our Offers – Clearance section we have 43 models that are UNDER £5 and a total of 86 that are UNDER £10. They are all brand new and come with a 12 month warrantee (Evolution models have a 2 year warrantee as standard).

So no price inflation at Sunglasses For Sport!

Check out our sunglasses special offers

Oakley Prizm lenses fine tune individual colours, enhancing detail for an optimized experience. With Prizm lens technology everything looks vivid and vibrant. It’s a breakthrough that comes from Oakley’s decades of research in optics for professional athletes, and it helps you make the most of everything from sports to everyday life.

See it in Prizm

Prizm is an Oakley lens technology designed to enhance colour and contrast so you can see more detail.

Colour – tuned to create a more vivid, vibrant world.

Contrast – defined to increase depth perception and highlight features in the surrounding environment.

Details – reveals what you may not see with the naked eye.

Prizm Road

Oakley Prizm Road lenses improve contrast to help you see subtle changes, for example when cycling you will be able to spot changes in road texture and quickly spot hazards like rocks and potholes. Overall colour will be enhanced giving improved vision. Prizm Road lenses have a rose base with orange/red mirror, and 20% VLT making them good for medium light conditions where you will benefit from enhanced colour and contrast.

Light Transmission: 20%

Light Conditions: Medium Light

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Rose

Lens Category: 2

Prizm Road Black

Prizm Road Black lenses are dark and ideal for bright conditions. They are a category 3 lens with 11% VLT, and with a rose base they will still enhance colour and contrast.

Light Transmission: 11%

Light Conditions: Bright Light

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Rose

Lens Category: 3

Prizm Road Jade

Prizm Road Jade is a rose base lens with a jade mirror finish. It will help to increase contrast and colour. It is a category 3 lens with 15% VLT it is slightly lighter than the Prizm Road Black lens.

Light Transmission: 15%

Light Conditions: Bright Sun

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Rose

Lens Category: 3

Prizm Trail Torch

Prizm Trail Torch lens increases contrast to help you distinguish obstacles in a variety of light conditions so you can ride with confidence. It is a rose base lens with a torch iridium mirror.

Light Transmission: 35%

Light Conditions: Medium Light

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Rose

Lens Category: 2

Prizm 24k

Oakley Prizm 24k lenses have a bronze base with a gold mirror. A category 3 lens with 11% VLT they are great for bright light conditions.

Light Transmission: 11%

Light Conditions: Bright Light

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Bronze

Lens Category: 3

Prizm Field

Oakley Prizm Field lenses have a rose base and are a performance enhancing colour designed with Prizm lens technology to improve contrast – boosting colours and filtering out distracting colours.

Light Transmission: 15%

Light Conditions: Bright Light

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Rose

Lens Category: 3

Prizm Black

Prizm Black is a dark grey lens for use in bright and sunny conditions. It will enhance detail while the grey base colour will keep colours looking natural.

Also available as Prizm Black Polarised for additional protection from glare.

Light Transmission: 11%

Light Conditions: Bright Light

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Grey

Lens Category: 3

Prizm Sapphire

Prizm Sapphire is a grey base lens with blue mirror. It is a category 3 lens for sunny and bright light conditions. Prizm lens technology improves overall colour and contrast.

Also available as Prizm Sapphire Polarised for additional protection from glare.

Light Transmission: 12%

Light Conditions: Bright Light

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Grey

Lens Category: 3

Prizm Tungsten

Oakley Prizm Tungsten lenses have a bronze base and are a category 3 lens with 14% VLT. Prizm lens technology enhances contrast, it is a versatile everyday lens.

Also available as Prizm Tungsten Polarised for additional protection from glare.

Light Transmission: 14%

Light Conditions: Bright Light

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Bronze

Lens Category: 3

Prizm Deep Water Polarised

Oakley Prizm Deep Water Polarised lenses have a rose base colour with a blue mirror. They are a category 3 lens with 12% VLT. For bright light conditions and it will help increase contrast.

Light Transmission: 12%

Light Conditions: Bright Light

Contrast: Increased

Base Lens Colour: Rose

Lens Category: 3

Nearly half of adults never wear sunglasses to protect their eyes from the sun. That’s the shocking result of a poll of 2000 adults commissioned by the charity Guide Dogs (The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association). More alarming still, the research showed that a third of 18-24 year-olds never wear sunglasses when it’s bright out, and only one in five adults are aware that this could lead to eye problems later in life. Surprisingly the research revealed that young people are less likely to wear sunglasses than older generations.

Pete Osborne, chief operations officer at Guide Dogs, said: “With an estimated six million people in the UK living with sight-threatening eye conditions, looking after your eyes is so important.

“We recommend people prioritise their eye health and get into good habits – such as wearing sunglasses and booking regular eye tests”.

Pete Osborne, chief operations officer at Guide Dogs

The simple precaution of wearing sunglasses with a UV filter from a very early age will help prevent serious eye heaths issues later in life like age-related macular degeneration (sight loss) and cataracts (a clouding of the lens in the eye that reduces vision).

Read more about why you should wear sunglasses.

Serengeti sunglasses are renowned globally as the most advanced eyewear with a unique 3–in–1 lens technology. With gradually-adjusting photochromic lenses, naturally colour-enhancing Spectral Control® filters, and glare-reducing polarisation, every Serengeti® lens is unique — and every frame is fashionable.  From their latest 2022 collection we have new models from the driving heritage capsule and the essential capsule. Discover our selection of Serengeti photochromic sunglasses. 

New 2022 collection Serengeti sunglasses

Driving Heritage Capsule 

Driving sunglasses have been at the heart of Serengeti for over 140 years. The driving heritage capsule features iconic driving sunglasses designed with the best sunglass lens for driving. 

Essentials Capsule 

The Essential capsule features timeless and classic style sunglasses, using the ultimate premium materials and lenses to deliver a new classic standard. All style without any compromise on quality. 

Serengeti Foyt

A classic shape for timeless wear. The Serengeti Foyt sunglasses feature mineral lenses and 5 barrel hinges. Handcrafted with eco-friendly acetate, Foyt sunglasses are as environmentally conscious as they are iconic. Look cool without even trying.

Serengeti Wayne

Serengeti Wayne navigator sunglasses feature a double brow design, spring hinges, and mineral lenses.

Serengeti Marlon

Serengeti MARLON aviator sunglasses, an angular take on the classic aviator design, these men’s aviator sunglasses feature mineral lenses, a customised metal rim, and spring hinges.

Serengeti Photochromic Technology 

Serengeti is a pioneer in the development of photochromic technology. Darkening in bright sunlight and lightening in overcast conditions, photochromic technology allows your eyes to adapt to any light, anywhere. This technology is infused into every Serengeti lens. 

Serengeti Polarised Technology 

Serengeti’s polarising technology suppresses glare, allowing you to enjoy all the depth and beauty the world has to offer. When glare reflects off the road, water, or flat areas, the distracting perpendicular light is reflected, while parallel light rays can pass through unhindered. This allows you to discover more clarity, while living free from glare and eye fatigue. 

Spectral Control 

Spectral Control® technology selectively manages light wavelengths to give better saturation of what you need to see. A Serengeti sunglass lens fine tunes and filters shortwave blue light, allowing more red, green, and yellow to pass through. Landscapes that would be washed out, dull, or flat with other lenses become defined, vibrant, and vivid — while your eyes remain relaxed. 

Everyone is exposed to Ultraviolet Radiation (UV) from the sun; UV rays can cause major damage to our skin and eyes. The UV index is an international system of measuring ultraviolet solar radiation for a specific day and geographical location. The higher the index, the more intense and dangerous to your health the solar radiation is. When the UV Index reaches 3 or more – even on cloudy days – wearing sunglasses is highly recommended, especially for children.

In the UK the UV index does not often exceed 8 but 7 is becoming more common. Right now, in late June, the Index is 8 for large parts of the UK. Indices of 9 and 10 are typically seen in the Mediterranean area.

UV Index – Exposure

1-2: Low
3-5: Moderate
6-7: High
8-10: Very high
11: Extreme

Protecting your eyes

The aim of the index is to warn people of the increased risks of skin and eye damage and protect themselves with a high SPF sun lotion along with wearing hats and sunglasses.

Some conditions can amplify the UV index, such as a beach. White sands can nearly double UV exposure as the sun reflects off the surface. It’s worth remembering that our eyes are ten times more sensitive to UV light than our skin and children’s eyes are at the greatest risk of UV damage. Protection from UV by wearing good quality UV400 rated, CE marked sunglasses when outdoors in the summer is essential to avoid long term eye damage from UVR.

The popularity of aviator sunglasses ebbs and flows but it’s no surprise that right now they’re making yet another come back.

Top Gun sunglasses

Iconic aviator sunglasses are back in the limelight, spurred on by Tom Cruise’s American fighter pilot character Pete Mitchell. Yes he’s back wearing his signature aviators in the sequel Top Gun: Maverick, 36 years after the first blockbuster Top Gun film. In the same gold frame with grey-green lenses, showing their timeless style.

Men & Women’s aviator style

The classic teardrop lenses are flattering on all face shapes and look great on men and women. Aviators are the sunglass style of choice for numerous famous personalities including Simon Cowell, George Clooney, Brad Pitt and of course US President Joe Biden who’s rarely seen without them outdoors. Aviators are a true unisex choice too – the Duchess of Sussex has recently taken to wearing them.

Find your aviator sunglasses

Most brands have at least one or two aviator styles in their portfolio, Oakley and Serengeti to name a couple. Choose different metal colour frames including gold, silver, gunmetal, and a selection of lens colours, some with mirror finish. We have a big selection to choose from starting at under £10.

With a 35-year heritage, Costa are universally recognised and renowned worldwide as the best polarized fishing and watersport sunglasses available. Most polarized sunglass lenses eliminate glare by blocking reflective light, but Costa’s patented 580 lens technology goes a step further by blocking the perfect amount of harsh yellow light and harmful blue light while enhancing reds, blues and greens. Essentially, Costa 580 lens technology keeps the bad light out, and lets the good light in. The result: less haze, less blur, greater contrast and greater clarity. Amongst the best polarized lenses ever created.

We have just taken on another brand – and a very well known one at that! New Balance (NB), the internationally renowned American sports footwear and sports apparel brand, was established in 1906. Privately owned, global sales exceed $4 billion with manufacturing undertaken in both the US and UK. Their active lifestyle sunglass collection feature contemporary styles and, as you would expect from NB, the frames and lenses are technically advanced and very high quality. All the lenses are polarised and every NB sunglass comes with a branded hard case. See all New Balance sunglasses.

This is the time of year we take in new 2022 models from many of the 20 plus brands we sell. Just in are three new Tifosi sunglasses: Rail, Centus and ShutOut. We’ve also added new colour variations of popular Tifosi models like Sledge, Tsali and Amok.

Tifosi Rail

Rail is an ‘on-trend’ cycling sunglass featuring an oversized shield lens and rimless design that provides increased coverage while still offering airflow. It is available as a multi-lens set or with Tifosi Fototec photochromic lens.

Tifosi Centus

Centus is a cross-over sunglass equally suited to most sports and leisure use. Two colour options available: Gloss Black and Iron.

Tifosi ShutOut

ShutOut is the first small fit sunglass from Tifosi we’ve sold and will appeal to teenagers and adults with smaller faces. Two colour options: Matte White – Blue Mirror and Matte White – Red Mirror. View our selection of small fit sunglasses.

In less than 20 years Tifosi has become one of the world’s leading sports eyewear brands with an ever-growing following. Focussing on cycling, running and golf sunglasses with a growing range in hiking & lifestyle sunglasses. The company philosophy is simple: match the quality of materials and construction of higher priced brands but with lower, more competitive prices.

See the new Tifosi sunglasses.

If your skiing holiday is now back on and you’re heading to the slopes in the next few weeks, why not treat yourself to some new ski eyewear? All our ski goggles are now on sale – up to 70% off!

Check out our range of snow goggles, all UV400 rated for maximum UV protection. Features include anti-fog lenses and venting to prevent fogging up, double layer face foam for comfortable fit, and interchangeable lenses so you can adapt to changing light conditions. Click below to shop ski goggle sale

Oakley O Frame 2 Lens Snow Goggles from £49.95

Bollé Ski Goggles from £19.95

Skeena (by Loubsol) Ski Goggles from £9.95

Montana Ski Goggles from £7.95

Kids & Junior Ski Goggles from £5.95

Ski Sunglasses

In addition to ski & snowboard goggles we have a big selection of sunglasses suitable for skiing and après ski! Protect your eyes from UV and glare at high altitude. Discover our ski sunglasses, with men’s & women’s styles. Read more about how to choose ski eyewear.

It’s very easy to mix up lens ‘classes’ and ‘categories’ and so we hope what follows will help clarify the difference.

Lens Class

The Class of the lens refers to the refractive properties of the lens – these must be exceeded to meet the required optical level. Another way of looking at it is the level of distortion of the lens. There are also different optical distortions that give rise to various distortion effects. There are spherical, prismatic, cylindrical and astigmatic distortions. Lenses can be sub-divided into three classes.

– Optical Class 1 is the best visual experience with minimal, if any distortion.

– Optical Class 2 provides an ‘average’ visual experience with some level of distortion

Both Classes 1 & 2 are perfectly good for every-day wear and necessary to meet CE/UKCA standards.

– Optical Class 3 is rarely seen and provides a low-quality visual experience. A cheap, poor-quality sunglass sold by a street market vendor might be an example.

Lens Category

The lens category number equates to a percentage of the VLT (Visible Light Transmission) that is, how much light the lens lets through. The higher the VLT the lighter the lens, and conversely the lower the VLT the darker the lens tint will be, blocking more light coming through to the eye. The majority of sunglass/eyewear lenses fall within one of five lens categories:

Category 0: 80-100% VLT

Category 1: 43-80% VLT

Category 2: 18-43% VLT

Category 3: 8-18% VLT

Category 4: 3-8% VLT

The lens category VLT can cover quite a wide spectrum such as Category 1 which is 43-80%. Some lens colours are right on the “border” e.g. a yellow lens can have 78% VLT which is on the border between Category 0 and Category 1. The following is a general guide to the categories that apply to different lens colours:

Category 0 – Clear, Light Yellow, Yellow, Pale Orange

Category 1 – Orange, Rose & Vermilion

Category 2 – Purple, Red, Amber & Light brown

Category 3 – ‘Standard’ Grey & Brown

Category 4 – Dark Grey & Dark Brown

We have just added three terrific looking new polarised sunglasses from Evolution. They all feature lightweight, durable TR90 frames and spring hinges to the temples for added comfort. The glare-blocking polarised lenses are distortion-free, and UV400 rated for protection. The lenses have a subtle gradient tint for a stylish look. Supplied with a cleaning cloth, soft carry pouch and hard case all for just £19.95 each!

The three new models are:

Evolution Genoa – Matte Black frame with Grey polarised lenses

Evolution Torino – Dark Brown frame with Brown polarised lenses

Evolution Rivoli – Matte Black frame with Grey polarised lenses & Dark Brown frame with Brown polarised lenses

Manufactured in the UK, Gripsee® is a clever new patented innovation designed to attach sunglasses & spectacles (including reading glasses) to your clothing (and without damage to clothing). A simple, safe & secure way of keeping them ready to hand. Carry them effortlessly: no more misplaced or dropped eyewear. In addition to clothing the magnetic cradle will attach to any metal object – find them where you need them, when you need them. Surprisingly light but powerful (2KG holding power). In addition to eyewear, it can be used for name & ID badges.

It’s supplied with two colour options so you can have either a black or white cradle facing outwards on your clothing.

Supplied in a smart presentation box with full instructions for just £9.95 – makes an ideal gift! Click below to see it.

Autumn and Winter is the time of year (here in the UK) that eyewear lenses are more prone to misting up. You take your sports eyewear out of the kit bag, put them on your face and instantly they mist up. It’s the same when you get into the car in the morning, put your sunglasses on that have been left in the car overnight and again they mist up. So what’s happening? It’s the interaction between the cold lenses and your (relatively) warm face. The cold lenses cause a phase change as the warmed-up air behind the lens (from the heat of your face) turns the air into a liquid – condensation on the lenses. You’ll no doubt have experienced this many times moving from outdoors to indoors and when wearing a face mask (your warm breadth is pushed up behind the colder lenses of your spectacles). It’s more likely to happen on close fitting wrap-around sports eyewear as the warm air behind the lens is “trapped”.

Fortunately, there are now some very good anti-fog products available, many specifically designed for close fitting sports sunglasses and ski goggles. We have several options to choose including both sprays and wipes. Most double-up as a very good lens cleaner too. Use on sunglasses, ski and swimming goggles, spectacles, visors, sports eyewear and more. See them all in our anti-fog products section.

Active cyclists that keep abreast of the latest gear will have noticed a shift in the design of cycling and MTB eyewear in the last 12-18 months. The ‘on-trend’ design is for shield sunglasses with large shaped frames and oversized lenses that provide total eye coverage. These statement style cycling sunglasses are becoming more popular and can be seen on many pro cyclists.

Cycling Sunglasses Brands

The top cycling eyewear brands, including Bollé, Oakley, Tifosi and UVEX, have all introduced models with oversized or shield lens designs.

Bollé Chronoshield

Bollé Chronoshield – Matte Crystal Navy frame – Bollé Phantom Clear Green lens

With the largest lens dimensions of Bollé sunglasses, Chronoshield offers an extra wide field of view, ideal for protection against the wind or debris, while its lens vent adjusts the airflow and ensures clear vision by preventing misting. Phantom lenses adapt to light while offering the sharpest vision at all times thanks to NXT® lens material and a high contrast filter enhancing details and boosting contrasts. 

Bollé Lightshifter XL

Bollé Lightshifter XL – Matte Titanium frame – Bollé Volt+ Ultraviolet Polarised lens

Bollé Lightshifter now in XL size. Bolle Volt+ Ultraviolet Polarised lenses – high contrast, colour enhancing Polarised lenses filter out 98% of sunlight reflections minimising glare, reducing eye fatigue and enhancing vision clarity. Experience the XL field of view while keeping high performance specs such as high grade TR90 nylon frame for lightness and flexibility, Thermogrip® rubber for stability and adjustable nose pad for a perfect fit.

Oakley Sutro

Oakley Sutro – Matte black frame – Prizm Road lens

Oakley Sutro features a large, shield style lens for a bold and versatile look. Prizm lens technology to enhance colour, contrast and detail. Durability and all-day comfort of lightweight O Matter™ frame material. Unobtainium™ nosepads increase grip with perspiration to help keep the eyewear securely in place.

Oakley Encoder

Oakley Encoder – Matte black temples – Prizm 24K lens

Oakley Encoder has a progressive wrap style with rigidity in key areas to mimic the structural properties of a frame.  Superior coverage lens for an enhanced field of view. Designed with hat and helmet functionality in mind with low-profile temples.

Tifosi Sledge

Tifosi Sledge – Matte blacke frame – Interchangeable 3 Lens Set supplied with Grey, Red and Clear lenses

Tifosi Sledge with full coverage shield lens for maximum protection. Vented lenses increase air circulation & prevents fogging. Lightweight but super strong Grilamid TR-90 frame, with hydrophilic rubber ear and nose pieces for a no-slip fit.

UVEX Sportstyle 231

UVEX Sportstyle 231 – White frame – Grey lens with blue mirror

UVEX Sportstyle 231 has a progressive, oversize lens providing complete eye protection and totally unrestricted field of vision. UVEX supravision® anti-fog coating: guaranteed condensation free. Adjustable nose pads and non-slip temples for a comfortable and secure fit.

Benefits of wearing cycling eyewear

Shield style lenses with large coverage will combat whatever the weather elements throw at them – keeping out wind, rain, glare, dirt and grit. The latest lens technologies enhance contrast to improve your vision. And lenses tend to be less prone to misting up with some models featuring vented lenses to help airflow or anti-fog coatings. Lightweight frames and slim temples make them comfortable to wear with helmets, and non-slip temples and nose pads ensure a secure fit.

Just arrived, a new delivery from American brand Eagle Eyes included several new models: 2in1, Breeze, Cozmoz, Flash, Force & Triumph.

Eagle Eyes TriLenium® Polarized lenses

Featuring their unique TriLenium® Polarized lenses that block out 99.9% harmful UVA, UVB radiation plus scattered blue light. The only sunglasses inducted into the NASA / Space Foundation Technology Hall of Fame, the origin of Eagle Eyes began at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory where scientists developed ground-breaking technology that would protect human eyesight from the harmful effects of solar radiation light. The lens created by NASA resulted in Eagle Eyes which has earned official recognition from the Space Certification Program; the only sunglass lens to receive the Lifetime Certified Space Technology™ seal of approval.

All models are polarised with superior polarising capability, contrast filtration and anti-scratch coatings to both sides of lenses. Sunglasses For Sport is the only UK eyewear retailer for these extraordinary sunglasses. Shop Eagle Eyes.

We have just added Rize – a relatively new British sunglass brand with all models having polarised lenses. Featuring contemporary styles, they all have TR90 frames; a material associated with higher priced eyewear. TR90 Grilamid is a type of nylon and the one of best materials available to make eyewear frames –  it’s super strong, flexible and lightweight for all-day wear. As the material is pliable, the frames are far less likely to break or bend from impact. Rize lenses are high quality and totally distortion-free and 100% polarised to block glare. They all feature a stylish, subtle graduation and are UV400 rated for maximum protection from harmful UVR. They are astonishing value for money, with all Rize polarised sunglasses under £15.

Following the UK’s departure from the European Union, the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking is the new UK product marking used for goods being placed on the market in Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland). It covers most goods which previously required the CE marking. The requirement for UKCA marking came into effect on 1 January 2021 but to allow businesses time to adjust to the new requirements, products made after this date can still use CE marking alone until 1 January 2023.

UKCA marking applies to most goods previously subject to the CE marking. The technical requirements products must meet are largely the same as they were for the CE marking.
The vast majority of manufacturers can use self-declaration of conformity for UKCA marking just as they did for CE marking, providing the product has been made to the relevant standard (in the case of sunglasses that’s BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013). The new requirement does not apply to existing stock; if it was manufactured and CE marked before 1 January 2021 it can still be sold in Great Britain with a CE mark, even after the 1 January 2023.

The UKCA marking is not recognised on the EU market. For that reason, unless a product is only going to be sold in GB, you will likely see both CE and UKCA marks applied to products including sunglasses and eyewear.

A common misconception about UV protection is that darker tint sunglasses provide extra UV protection. However, there is no relationship between the colour or darkness of your sunglasses/eyewear and the amount of UV protection. The lens tint colour and shade intensity e.g. Category 3 only tell you how much visible light is blocked.

A sunglass UV filter is actually clear and most sunglasses today have UV protection embedded in the lens rather than coated over it. Some older, inexpensive sunglasses may have had the UV filter applied to the front of the lens – this means that with scratching the UV protection can reduce.

What to look for are sunglasses/eyewear labelled or marked CE UV400 which means they block over 99% of UVR. This rating ensures that all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometres, including both UVA and UVB rays, are blocked out. As the UV filter is clear it means that even clear lens eyewear (like safety eyewear) can provide 100% protection from UVR providing they are marked UV400. It’s worth noting that virtually all sports eyewear (except polarised models) use polycarbonate as the lens material and polycarbonate naturally blocks most UV light and do not need the application of a UV coating, although reputable eyewear manufacturers using polycarbonate additionally apply a UV filter coating.

Our summer here in the UK has had a lot of cloudy days but it’s important to bear in mind that even on overcast days we can still can get up to 90 percent of UV radiation and so UV rays on cloudy days are just as dangerous as they are on bright, sunny days. As our eyes are 10 times more sensitive to UV than our skin, more than any other organ the eye can suffer significant injury from the sun; so be sure to wear sunglasses and skin protection while outside at all times of the year.

Regular media coverage about how authentic and accurate review sites and platforms are. It’s well known that many companies “game” the system with a mass of fake (positive) reviews. One very high profile UK review platform is also not what it seems: they allow their website customers to pay for a ‘premium’ service which means they have the facility to manipulate ratings by removing any low ones including negative reviews. In our minds this renders their scheme worthless and it can’t be trusted. One of the reasons we chose the Trusted Shops scheme is that their audit of any website is very rigorous and completely independent, taking 3 months to complete. Not only that but our customers post their rating and reviews on the Trusted Shops website not ours so we can’t remove or alter them in any way. So, our current 4.89 out of 5 rating is a true and accurate reflection of our customers’ experience of buying from us with 91% awarding us 5 stars. It’s a rating you can trust.

The ludicrous scare story that has been in circulation with UK regional media for a few years now seems to be getting another round of coverage. These stories claim you could get fined for wearing sunglasses whilst driving and fined for not wearing them! No doubt the “alarming” headlines that usually accompany these stories act as good online ‘clickbait’. Most of the content of these stories is factually incorrect. So again, let’s set the record completely straight. The only sunglasses you should NOT wear when driving are Category 4 ones that have very dark lenses that let in less than 8% of light. If found to be wearing these, you could be fined and if you had an accident your insurance company is unlikely to pay up. Category 4 sunglasses should be clearly described when sold and clearly marked either on the sunglass or outer packaging. In reality, Category 4 sunglasses are not widely available – you won’t find them in Boots.  A variation on this scare story states that some sunglasses can also affect your sight, as the edge of the frame blocks your peripheral vision and if your sunglasses aren’t fit for driving, you could be penalised for careless and inconsiderate driving. This is also complete nonsense as sunglasses are no more likely to restrict your peripheral vision than prescription spectacles – and no one is suggesting you shouldn’t wear those if needed! Drivers are only too aware that it can be very difficult to see clearly in bright sun conditions, especially when glare reflects off the road surface (especially a wet road), or when the sun is low on the horizon. These conditions occur regularly and at all times of the year when driving so of course you should wear sunglasses as an essential, indeed vital, safety measure to combat them. It’s plain common sense.

Due to the pandemic we last did an exhibition in September 2019. This year only one of the usual events we do is taking place but as it happens it’s the biggest and best! We’re delighted that the 2021 Game Fair is going ahead. If you’ve not been to one before it’s a fantastic celebration of the countryside and a ‘must attend’ event for everyone that loves fields sports. It’s taking place at the wonderful Ragley Hall near Alcester, B49 5NJ (and close to Stratford Upon Avon) over the weekend of Friday 23 – Sunday 25 July (3 days). 120,000 visitors are expected and around 850 exhibitors will be there; including us! Come and see us on stand no. K728 (near to The Gunmakers’ Pub). We will of course have some very special show deals!

From our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd, a new collection of Evolution leisure style sunglasses with both metal and acetate frames; the latter is a recent innovation. Acetate frames are lightweight, highly durable and flexible. Acetate is derived from wood pulp and since it’s plant-based, it’s environment-friendly and renewable. Acetate is also hypoallergenic, so it’s an ideal frame material for people who have allergies or sensitive skin. Acetate frames are hand-finished and usually associated with ‘high end’ (i.e. high price) sunglasses.

The new models are: Como, Molveno, Madrid, Toblino, Touring, Venice & Vintage; most available in two colour options. They all have high quality, glare blocking polarised lenses. Priced at just £19.95 they really are exceptional value. Shop Evolution Leisure sunglasses.

With British families being encouraged to holiday within the British Isles this summer it’s easy to forget just how strong our sun can be. From late June when the sun is high in the sky it’s easily possible to get burned here in the UK – damage that can increase the risk of skin cancer and visible signs of aging. It’s not commonly recognised that up to 80% of the visible signs of aging result from UV damage. According to the charity Cancer Research UK, apart from the immediate pain of sun burn it can double your risk of skin cancer. Those with lighter skins and children are more at risk and, overall one in five people will get skin cancer in their life time and that includes cancer of the eyelids.

If you need any more motivation the Sunface App (available for Android & Apple devices) shows users what their faces would look like if they didn’t use protection, in 5-year increments. 90% of people using the App have said it made them much more likely to wear sunscreen at all times when outdoors.

So, our top tips as we head into the summer months:

1. Wear sunscreen even on cloudy days. Sunscreen protects the skin from burning – select a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 and 50 for children and those with lighter skins.
2. Always use UV400 rated sunglasses, not just to protect you from damage to your eyes; the eyelid skin is very thin and this puts it at high risk of UV damage.

50-year old Phil Mickelson became the oldest man to win a golf major title at the US PGA Championship at Kiawah Island ending Sunday 23 May. He sported his sunglasses throughout the 4 rounds.

Phil Mickelson will admit to being a late convert to wearing sunglasses. He explained, “During the COVID break, I used this Carac cream, which is like a skin cancer chemotherapy treatment on your face. I had to wear some protection so I wore these sunglasses to protect the area around my eyes.

“I liked them,” he said. “They didn’t move around on my face when I was swinging. I went out and played with them, and I thought ‘Oh, I’ll give it a try.’ So that’s kinda where it started and then my eyes were much more relaxed at the end of the day, they weren’t squinting the whole time.”

So maybe there’s a lesson here to all those professional golfers that still don’t wear sunglasses! It’s certainly very important that amateur and recreational golfers wear sunglasses when out on the course as our ours eyes are much more susceptible to damage from UV rays: studies show that by the age of 50 we have been exposed to 90% of our lifetime UV damage. This can result in UV related conditions that ultimately lead to loss of vision.

Picture and Phil Mickelson quote courtesy of Golf News Network

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We have just taken delivery of 3 new models made by our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd. They are:

Evolution Pace Cycling Sunglasses

Contemporary styled cycling eyewear with large one-piece shield lens available in either a black or white frame, both having a Smoke lens with Blue mirror finish. This Pace model is absolutely packed with features you would expect in cycling eyewear costing at least twice the price such as a TR90 frame and Class 1 lenses. Fantastic value at just £19.95.

Evolution Latitude Polarised Sunglasses

Unisex sports style polarised sunglass available in two colour options. The full wrap fit keeps out wind and glare and the frame is made from lightweight but super strong grimalid TR90. Terrific value at just £19.95.

Evolution Lugano Polarised Sunglasses

A fab looking leisure style sunglass with round frame & keyhole bridge detail in dark tortoise TR90 frame and brown polarised lenses. Brilliant value at just £19.95.

The UK’s Spring weather has yet to really warm up but the sun is getting much higher in the sky and the risk of sun burn is now ever-present. It’s time to think about UV protection and have sun screen on and wear sunglasses when you’re out and about.

The UV Index usually provided with weather reports is on a scale from 1-10. The higher the index, the more intense and dangerous to your health the solar radiation is. When the UV Index reaches 3 or more – even on cloudy days – wearing sun screen and sunglasses is vital, especially for children. One in five people will get skin cancer in their lifetime and that includes cancer of the eyelids. It is estimated that 90% of the new cases of skin cancer each year are preventable if we just took sensible safety measures.

It’s worth remembering that our eyes are ten times more sensitive to UV light than our skin and children’s eyes are at the greatest risk of UV damage, so protection from UV by wearing good quality UV400 rated sunglasses when outdoors in the Spring and Summer is essential to avoid long term eye damage from UVR.

We have just taken in some new 2021 models from INVU. This brand belongs to Swiss Eyewear Group; they specialise in designing and producing high quality, affordably priced polarised sunglasses. The company was founded as recently as 2013 (by a management team that previously  worked for another well-known brand), and in the few years since they have grown at an astonishing rate, now with thousands of stockists worldwide. INVU sunglasses combine Swiss engineering, beautifully crafted frames and a proprietary nine-layer lens. A key factor is just how comfortable their sunglasses are: perfect for wearing all day long. All models are under £40 and come with a high quality hard case – really good value for money. Shop INVU sunglasses.  

Best known for their unrivalled range of PPE including safety eyewear, UVEX have also long been the favoured sports eyewear brand for many of the world’s elite sportsmen & women. Indeed UVEX sponsor over 1000 of them! Established over 90 years ago, still a family owned business and still manufacturing at their mammoth factory in the Bavarian town of Fürth, they are true pioneers in sports eyewear. All their sports eyewear is made with high-quality materials, innovative technologies and of course state-of-the-art safety standards. We have just taken delivery of several brand new 2021 models, some dedicated to cycling but others for multi-sport use. Included on some models is the UVEX supravision® anti-fog coating that are guaranteed to be fog-free, whenever and however you use them. Shop UVEX sunglasses

During mountaineering expeditions at high altitude incidents of snow blindness can be quite common. In medical terms the condition is known as photokeratitis. It’s a temporary but painful condition that occurs when exposure to ultraviolet rays creates inflammation on the surface of the eye resulting in blurred vision, watery eyes and other uncomfortable symptoms. It usually results when people don’t realise how bright and sunny it is and they’re not wearing sunglasses. Because mountain air is cool, it gives a false sense of security about the sunlight. But the higher the altitude, the greater the ultraviolet (UV) radiation because there is less atmosphere to screen out harmful rays. According to the WHO, ultraviolet radiation levels increase by 10-12% with every 1,000 metre increase in altitude.

Despite its name snow blindness doesn’t only occur in snowy and icy conditions. Photokeratitis can happen at lower altitudes too. It can be caused by the glare off water, sand and even a pavement. White sands can nearly double UV exposure as the sun reflects off the surface. Our eyes are actually ten times more sensitive to UV light than our skin and at much greater risk of UV damage. Even on a cloudy day you will still have UV light getting through the clouds; it may not be as intense, but it can still do damage.

The good news is that any UV400 rated sunglass will block ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays and do a good job of protecting against photokeratitis. Of course if you are intending to go mountaineering, skiing or hiking at high altitude, then specialist goggles and eyewear built for the job are far better as they will stay in place when you’re moving, keep out wind and prevent UV from coming in over the top and side of the frame/lenses.

The 2in1 Sport model is a clever new magnetic concept from Eagle Eyes: a two lens system allowing for daytime protection in any weather & night-time vision enhancement. The two lenses are a base Night-Lite® yellow lens for low, dull & poor light and for driving at night, and a second top TriLenium® polarized dark amber sunglass lens for use in strong sun & bright light; this top lens magnetically attaches over the base lens in seconds.

The base yellow lens is ideal for night driving; it filters out high-intensity light and cuts the glare from oncoming cars and overly bright LED signage. It is also designed to enhance visual definition and contrast in low, dull & poor light conditions. The magnetically attached TriLenium® polarized dark amber sunglass lens was developed from original NASA optic technology to block scattered blue light and 99.9% of harmful UV radiation. This lens enhances contrast, improves definition and blocks glare. The durable, lightweight sports-wrap frame keeps out wind & glare and incorporates ultragrip rubber temples to keep the frame in place when you’re active or perspire.

As the UK continues to experience sub-zero winter temperatures with regular warnings of ice and snow, motorists are being encouraged to pack essential items in their car. The UK Met Office, consulting the RAC, has suggested keeping these items in your car as part of a winter driving pack:

• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch
• In-car phone charger
• Warm clothes & blanket
• Hi-Viz vest/jacket
• Jump leads
• Empty fuel can
• Food & drink
• Shovel
• Warning Triangle
• SUNGLASSES

The RAC pointed out that winter sun can seriously affect the driver’s visibility, creating a glare which makes it difficult to see the road so ‘always ensure you have a pair of sunglasses to hand’.

So, there you have it – official advice from the Met Office/RAC!

We sell yellow polarised glasses that are useful for fishing, cycling and night driving. Not everyone agrees that yellow lenses are helpful for driving at night and to our knowledge there has not been any ‘definitive’ research undertaken. This YouTube video by ‘Doctor Eye Health’ is worth watching.

His conclusions broadly being that if you are driving at dusk or twilight they will help and they also help counter the dazzle caused by oncoming headlights, but on unlit roads in the dark they will not help. Other good points made in the video:

• a yellow lens is still a tint and as such will limit some light entering the lenses so they cannot possibly be as good as a clear lens in dark, night time conditions with no ambient light
• yellow is a very high contrast colour which means it sharpens up the field of vision – good if your eyes are tired

Overall, we think this assessment by Doctor Eye Health is fair and balanced.  

We have in the past provided a lot information about sunglass lenses but not so much about frames – what they are made of.

Broadly, sunglass frames are either made from plastic or metal. Generally, sports frames use one of the plastics and leisure styles use both metal and plastic. There are several types of plastic frame materials, the two most common being zylonite (zyl) also known as celluloid. It’s an easy material for factories to work with, not expensive and can come in a huge range of colours. The most popular frame material used for sports frames is polycarbonate. The polycarbonate used to make frames is different to that used for lenses, the latter being a much higher grade “pure form” to create optical quality lenses. Polycarbonate for frames is favoured because it’s lightweight but it can be prone to fracture in extreme weather (heat or cold). A lot of sports eyewear brands are now using a material called Grilamid TR90, a type of nylon because it’s very light but very strong – almost unbreakable.

For metal frames most well-known brands use high-strength, lightweight metal materials to make their frames choosing either nickel, stainless steel, aluminium or titanium, the latter a premium grade metal that’s ultra-light but incredibly strong. Most brands play safe and use nickel-free metals as sensitive skin can react to nickel.

US President Joe Biden is a long-term devotee of Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses. When the sun is shining he is rarely seen without them. Coupled with his smart, dark single-breasted suits you could say it’s his signature look. And there’s no doubt the aviator frame suits his face shape.

History of aviator sunglasses

The aviator style sunglass has certainly been around a long time. Back in 1929 a US Army Air Corps Colonel called John Macready worked with Bausch & Lomb, a Rochester, New York-based medical equipment manufacturer, to create aviation sunglasses that would reduce the distraction for pilots caused by the intense blue and white hues of the sky. MacCready was concerned about how the goggles pilots were using frequently fogged up, reducing visibility at high altitude.

The original aviator sunglasses

The prototype sunglass, created sometime later in 1936, had plastic frames and green lenses that could cut out the glare without obscuring vision. It went on sale to the public in 1937 followed by a redesign using a metal frame in 1939 and was patented by Bausch & Lomb as the Ray-Ban Aviator.

Popularity of aviators

When Foster Grant first started the mass marketing of sunglasses in the mid-1930’s it was the aviator style that proved most popular. Probably the heyday of the aviator styling was the 1970s and 1980s when hugely popular celebrities like Slash, Michael Jackson, George Michael, Tom Cruise, Freddie Mercury, Jeff Lynne, Roger Waters and Elvis Presley were always seen wearing them. 

Now that we have an aviator sunglass devotee running the world’s most powerful country will they make a come-back? If you’re interested in checking out the aviator styles we sell we have over 65 to choose from! Shop Aviator Sunglasses. 

It is important to have the right mountain biking sunglasses out on the trail. We have a range from top brands including Oakley, Cebe, Bollé and Tifosi. Contrast enhancing lenses will help you spot the differences in the trail. Large coverage lenses will help to protect your eyes from dust, dirt, and debris that can get kicked up. MTB eyewear should be comfortable and fit securely so sunglasses with non-slip nose pads & temple tips are a plus, and they should have slim profile temples so they are helmet compatible.

Discover our range of mountain biking sunglasses.

We have mentioned before the hazard to drivers of low sun and new statistics released by the AA reinforce just how dangerous this is with a reported 36 deaths annually (in the UK) attributed to glare temporarily blinding drivers when the sun is low in the sky, typically when drivers are commuting to and from work. Glare contributes to 3,000 car accidents annually (just in the UK) and is particularly dangerous at this time of year as autumn turns to winter when sun sets at the busiest time on roads.

With the low angle of the sun in the sky or reflected off the road surface, even using a driver’s car visor is often useless. The best remedy is to have a pair of polarised sunglasses ready to hand in the car. The polarised lens will block glare especially the harsh glare that results from sunlight striking a wet road. It’s worth noting that you can be convicted of careless driving if you are not wearing sunglasses and are then dazzled by bright sunlight and you don’t slow down or pull over. This is covered by rule 237 of the Highway Code.

As most people have now discovered, wearing masks and eyewear don’t mix well. With the mandatory requirement to wear masks in most indoor public areas (and many outdoor spaces) the eyewear wearing public have learned the hard way that masks cause their glasses to fog up just about every time they exhale. Various remedies abound but a good proprietary anti-fog product is really the best solution. We sell a variety of options in our Accessories section; the best selling one at present being the Opti-Plus Anti-Fog towelettes. Available as a pack of 10 or boxes of 30 & 100, they work with all lens types and lens coatings including anti-reflective (AR) coatings. They have been independently tested by and awarded the COLTS Laboratories Performance Seal. We have just changed our Accessories section to group similar products together for easier browsing/selection – see all of our anti-fog products.

In our special offers section you can pick up a real bargain – we have over 350 sunglasses on offer with over 200 priced at under £15. All styles are available including many polarised sunglasses. Many are under half their original price and some at one-third their RRP. All are brand new (not returned stock) from reputable brands. Have a look at our Special Offers

We’ve just taken delivery of another brand new polarised sunglass model made for our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd. Evolution Peniche has a matte black frame (with yellow detail) and two polarised lens options: grey & blue revo.

Peniche is a Floating Frame design which means it will not sink in fresh or sea water. The full wrap fit frame has deep temples to keep out wind & glare. The robust but lightweight frame construction includes non-slip rubber nose pads. It comes with an adjustable (non-detachable) strap. Whilst primarily designed for watersports, Peniche can be used for a variety of other sports like off-road cycling, fishing, paragliding and skiing. It’s supplied with a soft carry pouch, cleaning cloth & hard case plus free polarised test card all for just £24.95!

We’ve just taken delivery of two brand new Evolution models manufactured for our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd.

Evolution Portofino polarised sunglasses

Evolution Portofino is a stylish crossover sport-leisure style polarised sunglass available with grey lenses or smoke lenses with a blue revo mirror finish.  It has an ultra-lightweight but super strong TR90 matte black frame. Supplied with a cleaning cloth, soft carry pouch & hard case plus free polarised test card all fo{“type”:”block”,”srcClientIds”:[“b1448176-e045-4272-9f69-ce7285ff0be0″],”srcRootClientId”:””}r just £19.95 each.

Evolution Velo cycling sunglasses

Evolution Velo is a specialist cycling sunglass with a large lens with full wrap frame for total eye protection and to keep out wind & glare. It’s available with ether a grey lens or smoke lens with blue revo mirror.  The frame is made from lightweight but super strong TR90 and lenses are Class 1 optical quality. All for the remarkable low price of just £16.95 each!

It’s only in recent years that more and more of the world’s top PGA tournament players have started to wear sunglasses out on the course and it’s surprising that many more professionals still don’t wear them. When playing golf your eyesight is your most important tool; your eyes help you to track your ball, read the greens, hit the ball well and judge distances for your shots. Yet many golfers leave their eyes exposed to harmful UV rays for hours on end. With the average age of a golfer being 51 in the UK your eyes are much more susceptible to damage from UV rays: studies show that by the age of 50 we have been exposed to 90% of our lifetime UV damage. This can result in UV related conditions that ultimately lead to loss of vison.

Phil Mickelson will admit to adding many wrinkles to his on-course persona from a lifetime on golf courses and now he’s a late convert to sunglasses. In the recent PGA Tour restart, he was seen wearing sunglasses for the first time but why has Phil Mickelson been wearing sunglasses on the PGA Tour after spending his entire career not wearing them?

Mickelson explained “During the COVID break, I used this Carac cream, which is like a skin cancer chemotherapy treatment on your face, for like two weeks, and your skin blotches up and you kill these cancer cells that you can’t see and when I went outside, I had to wear some protection so I wore these sunglasses to protect the area around my eyes”

As it turned out, his choice of shades really appealed to the five-time major winner.

“I liked them,” he said. “They didn’t move around on my face when I was swinging. I went out and played with them, and I thought ‘Oh, I’ll give it a try.’ So that’s kinda where it started and then my eyes were much more relaxed at the end of the day, they weren’t squinting the whole time.”

Mickelson admitted the look isn’t for everyone, but the comfort of great golf sunglasses should be for everyone. The benefits are tremendous for your eyes, including protection from dangerous UV rays, improved vision, less eye strain and perhaps even better putt reading.

Picture and Phil Mickelson quote courtesy of the Golf News Network https://thegolfnewsnet.com/news/

UK regional media have been running the same ludicrous scare story for some time now claiming you could get fined for wearing sunglasses whilst driving and fined for not wearing them! Guaranteed to confuse people! We have no idea which organisation originally issued this story to the media (or why) but it’s mostly factually incorrect (that’s being very polite). Let’s set the record completely straight. The only sunglasses you should NOT wear when driving are Category 4 ones that have very dark lenses that let in less than 8% of light. If found to be wearing these, you could be fined and if you had an accident your insurance company is unlikely to pay up. Category 4 sunglasses should be clearly described when sold and clearly marked either on the sunglass or outer packaging.

The vast majority of drivers are only too aware that it can be very difficult to see clearly in bright sun conditions, especially when glare reflects off the road surface (especially a wet road), or when the sun is low on the horizon. These conditions occur regularly and at all times of the year when driving so of course you should wear sunglasses as an essential, indeed vital, safety measure to combat them. It’s plain common sense. Find driving sunglasses.

As we have mentioned before we strongly recommend you keep a pair of polarised sunglasses ready-to-hand in the car when driving and put them on whenever the sun is shining.

As mentioned in a previous news post, in the midst of this worldwide pandemic it’s important to keep your eyewear clean. Here are some top tips for doing that:

• Don’t use a handkerchief or corner of a shirt/blouse. These can contain particles of dust and dirt which can easily scratch your lenses when you start rubbing. Paper towels and napkins are just as bad. They’re essentially pulped wood and surprisingly abrasive whilst also leaving particles of dust on the lens.
• For best results ideally use a proprietary lens cleaning liquid; condensation from your breath isn’t recommended even if you’re using a microfibre cloth. Alternatively you can rinse your sunglasses/eyewear in warm (not hot) water. Run a bowl of water and add a couple of drops of mild washing-up liquid to it. Then simply give the sunglasses a good dunking to remove all the dirt and gently rub them with your fingers in the water. Then dry with a clean, lint-free cloth (eg. microfibre cloth). However, don’t apply washing up liquids – particularly citric ones – directly onto lenses as they can be abrasive, some containing salt.
• Don’t forget to give the frame a good clean too. When you wear your sunglasses or spectacles the areas most likely to be contaminated with grease, dirt and grime are the nose pads, temples and the frame surrounding the lenses.
• It’s very important to avoid household glass cleaners: general purpose household glass cleaners can contain vinegar, ammonia or even bleach making these cleaners too ‘aggressive’ for eyewear lenses – they can strip away mirror or anti-reflective coatings. We have some low cost options on purpose-made lens cleaners in our accessories section.

We have just introduced two brand-new sports prescription models made by our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd. They both utilise prescription optical inserts but are very different in styling. Both come with impact resistant polycarbonate lenses complying with EN166F.

Evolution Horizon RX

Horizon is available in 4 colours: Brown, Yellow, Orange & Purple-Rose. It’s rimless with a full wrap fit and with this model you don’t change lenses – the insert is fixed to the nose piece and it’s a very quick exercise to move the nose piece from one colour to another.

We’re selling it as a single brown colour and 2, 3 & 4 frame sets. Prices start at just £24.95.

Evolution Sportek RX

This interchangeable model is stylish looking and has a large, one-piece lens providing total eye protection. The wide optical insert minimises any interference with peripheral vison. This is a ‘High-Spec’ model with a TR90 (super strong nylon) frame and an advanced ‘WP3’ lens coating acting as an invisible film giving these benefits: oleophobic & hydrophobic (repels rain, spray, water spots, grease, smudging and fingerprints); easy lens cleaning (no-friction surface); scratch resistance.

We’re selling it as a single grey colour or 2, 3 & 4 lens sets. Prices start at just £44.95.

We’ve just taken delivery of 12 new 2020 Floats models – most with 2 colour options. Established over 30 years ago and based in South Beach near Miami, Floats specialise in superior quality yet highly affordable polarised sunglasses with Class 1 optically correct, scratch resistant lenses. Floats use the latest ‘TNS’ polarised technology for maximum elimination of glare even under intense sunlight. Frames are strong but lightweight and very comfortable to wear. We started selling Floats 12 years ago and in that time we have had a tiny number back with any quality issues. With all models under £25 they’re terrific value for money. Click here to see them.

During the current Covid-19 pandemic it’s important to remember to protect your eyes from being exposed to the virus. Wearing eye protection such as  goggles or close fitting, wrap around styles of safety eyewear will help shield your eyes. We have lots of options in our Safety Eyewear section.

Even protecting eyes with wrap around sport style sunglasses will help shield your eyes from infected droplets – the closer fitting the better.

When wearing a mask with sunglasses or eyewear you’ll know by now that lenses are prone to fogging/misting up. To help prevent this you can use an anti-fog product – we have a selection of anti-fog wipes and anti-fog solutions in our Accessories section. We also have many lens cleaning products on our Accessories page – it’s especially important to keep eyewear clean at the moment.

The UV Index, also known as the Solar UV Index, was developed by the World Health Organisation. The UV index forecast identifies the strength of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun at a particular place on a particular day, allowing you to take the necessary precautions to help reduce the impact of UVR on your health. As we know, small amounts of UVR exposure can be beneficial as it is essential for the production of vitamin D, however over exposure to UVR can lead to serious health issues such as skin cancers and eye damage that could result in cataracts and macular degeneration later in life.

The strength of UV varies depending on where you are in the world, the time of year and on a number of different weather factors such as the amount of cloud cover.

Here in the UK the UV index does not exceed 8 (8 is rare); 7 may occur on exceptional days, mostly in the month of June. Indices of 9 and 10 are very common in the Mediterranean area.

UV index

• 1-2 Low
• 3-5 Moderate
• 6-7 High
• 8-10 Very high
• 11 Extreme

The aim of the index is to warn people of increased risk and encourage them to use sun creams, sunglasses and hats when outdoors.

On our website you can search by (your) sport, by brand or by category of eyewear. In our Category menu you’ll find a large range of options on popular search terms like Kids Sunglasses and Category 4 (dark) sunglasses. We sell a large range of safety models (probably more than any other online retailer) from different brands – including Bollé Safety, UVEX Safety and Oakley – and now you can find them all in the latest addition to our categories: Safety Eyewear. All our safety models have polycarbonate lenses with a minimum 2mm thickness and have been tested to EN166F . This means they can withstand the impact of a 6mm diameter ball bearing travelling at 45 m/s.

With safety eyewear you get a lot for your money with virtually all model prices at under £20. Shop Safety Eyewear.

If you’re now regularly wearing a mask on your face you’ll have noticed that your sunglasses, spectacles or medical goggles are prone to misting up. This is because the mask directs your breath upwards instead of in front of you, which is good for preventing disease transmission but a nuisance as it interferes with your vision.

Sports eyewear that’s close fitting is also prone to mist up and for that reason we sell a range of anti-fog wipes, solutions & sprays: probably the widest range of options available in the UK. This one shown was made for our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd by an Italian company and it’s the most effective anti-fog product we’ve tested. See all our anti-fog options in our accessories section.

Wraparound sunglasses can be a game-changer for hay fever sufferers. When you’re in and out of the garden, wear wraparound sunglasses to help prevent pollen from getting in and irritating your eyes

Marc Donovan, chief pharmacist at Boots

There’s currently no cure for hay fever and you cannot prevent it but symptoms can be alleviated with antihistamine drops, tablets and sprays. Marc Donovan, chief pharmacist at Boots, has a top tip for hay fever sufferers; Marc said, “Wraparound sunglasses can be a game-changer for hay fever sufferers. When you’re in and out of the garden, wear wraparound sunglasses to help prevent pollen from getting in and irritating your eyes”.

We’re very pleased to have taken on the INVU range of sport and leisure style sunglasses. The INVU brand belongs to Swiss Eyewear Group; they specialise in designing, producing and distributing high quality, affordably priced polarised sunglasses. In the few years since the company was founded in 2013 the brand has grown at an astonishing rate, now with thousands of stockists worldwide.

– multi-layer construction makes the lens virtually unbreakable with high impact resistance

– highly efficient ultra-polarizer centre layer for totally glare-free vision

– colour enhancement layer that boosts contrasts and colour perception

– precision hard coated layer that helps prevent scratching

– 100% UV A, B and C protection up to 400 nanometers

Like most industry sectors the optical world has its own esoteric language and sector-specific terminology. So if you’re baffled by terms like G15, EN166, TR90, photochromic, Trivex, CR-90 and so on we can help! We’ve just put together a glossary of optical terms to explain what all these strange terms mean. Go to our Eyewear Information page to find it (scroll down on the page).

This is the time of year we take in new stock from suppliers including 2020 models. Just in, a new delivery from American brand Eagle Eyes featuring their TriLenium® Polarized lenses that block out 99.9% harmful UVA, UVB radiation plus scattered blue light. The only sunglasses inducted into the NASA / Space Foundation Technology Hall of Fame, the origin of Eagle Eyes began at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory where scientists developed ground-breaking technology that would protect human eyesight from the harmful effects of solar radiation light. The lens created by NASA resulted in Eagle Eyes which has earned official recognition from the Space Certification Program; the only sunglass lens to receive the Lifetime Certified Space Technology™ seal of approval. Virtually all models are polarised with superior polarising capability, contrast filtration and anti-scratch coatings to both sides of lenses. Sunglasses For Sport is the only UK eyewear retailer for these extraordinary sunglasses.

Sunglasses For Sport is the UK’s largest stockist of shooting eyewear and now we’re delighted to have taken on a new range manufactured exclusively for our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd; 12 months in development, this technically advanced shooting eyewear suits all clay target disciplines and will also appeal to field sports enthusiasts.

Its long list of features includes: large full-wrap for total eye protection; Class 1 optical grade polycarbonate lens; impact resistant lens (complies with EN166); Oleophobic & Hydrophobic lens coating (water and oil repellent, smudge and fingerprint resistant); HCAF twin lens coating – superior hard coating on lens front protects against scratches and abrasion with anti-fog coating on the lens rear to prevent misting; Unobtrusive, adjustable nose piece; cam hinges to the temples (snap closure) and UV400 rated lens (maximum UVR protection).

John Heagren, Shooting Manager at Bisley Shooting Ground, comments,

“I’ve been using the new Evolution Edge model and I’m very impressed; they’re so light you hardly know you’re wearing them, and the lenses really are exceptional quality. Pretty much everything you could want in shooting eyewear, yet at sensible prices. Evolution are onto a winner with this excellent shooting eyewear”.

The Edge model is available in six individual shooting colours (grey, purple, orange, light yellow, rose and yellow) priced at £39.95 each plus an interchangeable 5 lens set priced at £129.95. Click here to see them.

You’ve probably wondered why lenses mist up? And how to stop sunglasses fogging up? Fogging happens when water vapour (from exhaled breath and sweat from your forehead) cools down when it comes into contact with the lenses. The cold lenses cause a phase change as the warm vapor surrounds the lenses and turns the air into a liquid. Fogging also occurs when the lens is colder than the air surrounding the lens; this often happens if you move from outdoors to indoors. Or if you take your eyewear out of the relative warmth of a kitbag in cold air.

Fortunately, there are now some very good anti-fog products available, many specifically designed for close fitting sports sunglasses and ski goggles. We now have several options to choose from including these new OptiPlus Anti-Fog Wipes from lens care specialists Hilco. For just £5.95 you get a box of 30 individual anti-fog wipes (sachets). They’re long lasting and highly effective at fog prevention on all types of lenses including AR and hard coated. Use on sunglasses, ski and swimming goggles, spectacles, visors, sports eyewear and more. See them all in our anti-fog products section.

We have just taken delivery of a brand new model manufactured for our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd. Called Deuce, it’s a smaller fit to suit teenagers & adults with smaller faces.
It has a matte black frame made from lightweight but super strong TR90. Lenses are high quality, distortion-free and UV400 rated; made from polycarbonate, they are also shatterproof and impact resistant. Deuce has non-slip nose pads & temples – the temple tips are flexible for a firm but comfortable fit. The full wrap fit design keeps out wind & glare.

The price is just £16.95 supplied with a soft carry pouch and includes free UK delivery. See Deuce Grey here and Deuce Blue Mirror here.

A sad story in the UK media about a 59 year British lady who has lost an eye to skin cancer caused by UV rays. For years Chris Wilcocks loved to soak up the sun on Turkish and Spanish beaches wearing her fake designer shades. She pins the blame for the eye cancer on her 40-strong collection of ‘knock-off’ sunglasses, often bought from beach vendors on holiday. She now accepts that they offered no UV protection. She said, “I always went for the blingiest sunglasses – I just loved the glamour, unfortunately, they had clearly done nothing to protect my eyes. Really, I’d like to ban cheap sunglasses without UV protection altogether but for now I’ve got to focus on raising awareness”. It’s often tempting on holiday to buy what appears to be stylish looking sunglasses from a market stall or beach vendor but almost always these sunglasses have no UV filters – the damage to your eyes will be like sunbathing for long periods wearing no sunscreen. More so because eyes are far more sensitive to sunlight than your skin.

If you’re heading to the slopes this winter why not treat yourself to a new pair of ski goggles. We have a large selection to choose from and some amazingly low prices from some of the best-known ski eyewear brands; many at under half their RRP:

Oakley 2 Lens Ski Goggles from £39.95
Bollé Ski Goggles from £14.95
Loubsol Skeena Ski Goggles from £9.95
Montana Ski Goggles from £9.95
UVEX Ski Goggles from £9.95
Kids & Junior Ski Goggles from £7.95

All with free UK delivery. Click here to see them.

We have just taken delivery of a brand-new Evolution model called Crossfire. A great looking cross-over sport and leisure style sunglass that’s true unisex. It has a matte black frame and grey (Cat. 3) lenses made from impact resistant, shatterproof polycarbonate. The frame also features non-slip, adjustable nosepads. Lenses are class 1 optical grade and UV400 rated. It’s also available as a 3 lens interchangeable set (Crossfire 3) supplied with grey,  orange and yellow lenses. Lens changing is quick and easy. Great value, Crossfire is just £16.95 supplied with a soft carry pouch or £34.95 for the 3-lens set supplied with soft pouch, cleaning cloth and hard case. Click here to see them.

It isn’t often we add a new brand – as mentioned before we only add a new brand if we feel it genuinely offers our customers something a little bit different. So we’re pleased to have taken Stone on board. Stone is owned by BLOC Eyewear the well-known British eyewear brand. They share many of the qualities that have underpinned BLOC’s success such as Class 1 optical grade lenses and strong, durable frames.

Available in both sports and leisure styles the normal recommended retail price of Stone sunglasses is £35. But we have a permanent low price that’s more than 1/3 off, making them much more affordable with every one priced at under £20 (with our usual free delivery). For value for money Stone are really hard to beat. See them here.

This is the time of year (here in the UK) when the sun is low in the sky, just when drivers are commuting to and from work. You can turn the corner and easily be temporarily dazzled by low sun. The UK Department of Transport statistics for 2012 showed that sun glare contributed to 36 fatal car accidents and a further 423 serious injuries. With the low angle of the sun in the sky or reflected off the road surface, even using a driver’s car visor is often useless. The best remedy is to have a pair of polarised sunglasses ready to hand in the car. It’s worth noting that you can be convicted of careless driving if you are not wearing sunglasses and are then dazzled by bright sunlight and you don’t slow down or pull over. This is covered by rule 237 of the Highway Code.

You might however have seen some of the scare stories in the media recently about getting fined for wearing sunglasses when driving. These ‘sensational’ stories designed to catch the eye usually fail to properly clarify that the only sunglasses you should not wear when driving are those with category 4 lenses. These let in less than 10% of light and are too dark to safely drive. If found wearing these very dark tinted sunglasses you could find yourself facing an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three penalty points on your licence. Or if you have an accident wearing them you could end up in court and a fine of up to £2,500 plus nine points on your driving licence. And your insurance company will almost certainly not pay up. All Category 4 sunglasses should be clearly marked as such – often they come with a ‘no driving’ sticker and or ‘no driving’ symbol marked on the inside of one temple.

We have some big reductions on Oakley right now – up to 40% off our previous prices. The world’s best-selling sports eyewear brand has without doubt got even better with the introduction of Prizm™ lenses; these provide unprecedented control of light transmission resulting in colours precisely tuned to maximise contrast and enhance visibility. You really can see a difference! Sunglasses For Sport is an official Oakley stockist – check out our Oakley Sale here. 

Hot on the heels of the 6 new 2019 Evolution models promoted in our recent news item comes another 2! Just arrived, they are both polarised models:

The classic looking Evolution Slide model now has a new colour option with a Tortoise frame and Brown polarised lenses.

Evolution Driftwood is a cross-over sports/leisure style sunglass with a woodgrain effect frame and Brown polarised lenses.

Both frames are made from super durable TR90 and the high quality lenses block all glare. Priced at just £19.95 each, they are supplied with a cleaning cloth, soft pouch, hard case & polarised test card – fantastic value!

A low UV Index is rated between 0 and 2. The best option of protection if outside is sunscreen and sunglasses

A medium UV Index is rated between 3 and 5. The best option of protection adds a hat to our sunscreen and sunglasses

A high UV Index is rated between 6 and 7. In addition to sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat you should find shade during the day if outside

A very high UV Index is rated between 8 and 10. This means we need to use sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, light coloured clothing and shade

An extreme UV Index is anything over 11. This means that you need to avoid being outside or stay in the shade

Some conditions can amplify the UV index, such as a beach. White sands can nearly double UV exposure as the sun reflects off the surface. During the winter, snow can also double the output of UV strength, again because the sun reflects off the white surface.

In the UK the UV index does not exceed 8 however indices of 9 and 10 are common in the Mediterranean.

It’s worth remembering that our eyes are ten times more sensitive to UV light than our skin and children’s eyes are at the greatest risk of UV damage, so protection from UV by wearing good quality UV400 sunglasses when outdoors in the summer is essential to avoid long term eye damage from UVR.

We’ve recently taken delivery of some terrific new 2019 Evolution models. Manufactured for our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd, these brand-new models are all available with our standard (permanent) Evolution special offer – buy any two models and et the lowest price one (or second one if both are the same price) at half price.

Evolution Viper has an unusual snakeskin effect frame and grey polarised lenses. The frame is made from a lightweight but super strong TR90 frame. Just £19.95 supplied with soft carry pouch, cleaning cloth & hard case plus free polarised test card.

Evolution Rider is a versatile sports sunglass that can be used for cycling and most other active sports. It has a grey lens with a flash mirror finish. The super durable lightweight TR90 frame is strong but lightweight for all-day wear helped by also having flexible non-slip temple tips for a comfortable fit. Just £16.95 supplied with a soft carry pouch.

Evolution Velocity 4 is a 4-lens interchangeable set that has a 10-base curve for total eye protection and it’s simply loaded with features that you would expect in much higher priced eyewear. Just £59.95 supplied with grey, yellow, purple & orange lenses complete with cleaning cloth, soft carry pouch and hard case.

Evolution Bermuda has a matte black frame and grey polarised lenses. The full wrap, 10 base curve durable frame keeps out all wind and glare. Just £19.95 supplied with soft carry pouch, cleaning cloth & hard case plus free polarised test card.

Evolution Ocean 3 is our popular 3-lens interchangeable model that’s now been upgraded and comes with 3 polarised lenses: polarised brown, polarised yellow and polarised amber – all 3 lenses are polarised. Just £49.95 supplied with soft carry pouch, cleaning cloth, hard case & free polarised test card.

Imagine being able to wear your favourite sunglasses and read or see things up close without needing a second pair of glasses. Well now you can with OPTX 20/20 HydroTac™ Stick-On Magnifying Lenses. HydroTac™ are made from transparent, flexible material and they are easy to apply to any type of eyewear.

They can transform your sunglasses into reading glasses and you can remove and reuse them. In the workplace HydroTac™ lenses work for any type of safety glasses so you can see anything close-up without having to change over to (non-safety) reading glasses.

HydroTac™ are made from a soft high optical quality material that sticks to the lens (with a little tap water) through molecular adhesion. It is an easy and inexpensive solution to a very common problem.

With another drop of water you can remove them when you want. They don’t leave a trace on your glasses and can be used over-and-over again e.g. if the sunglass lens gets scratched or damaged you can simply transfer the Hydotacs to a new pair.

And once installed on your sunglasses / eyewear they are virtually invisible from the front. We have them available in 5 different power strengths.

We’re gearing up for our attendance at the 2019 Game Fair – back at the wonderful Hatfield House. It’s our most important event of the year. And you don’t have to be a fieldsports enthusiast to enjoy this absolutely fantastic countryside event. It really is an incredible day out for the whole family – with over 1000 exhibitors and dozens and dozens of features to see and take part in; in fact you’re hard pushed to get round it all in just one day. And it’s rapidly approaching, taking place over the weekend of 26-30 July at The Hatfield Estate north of London. Our stand is in Gunmakers Row no. N1496 and as always we’ll have some great show offers! Find out more here. If you’re visiting please do come and see us!

Whilst we don’t sell Foster Grants we do applaud the fact they are celebrating their 90th anniversary this year. That’s significant because it is generally accepted that Sam Foster, founder of Foster Grant, first introduced sunglasses in 1929. He is certainly credited with getting sunglasses into mass production.

From selling his first pair on the ‘Boardwalk’ at Atlantic City in 1929 they immediately took off, helped in no small part by the quick adoption of several big movie stars of the day. During the gilded age of Hollywood, Foster Grant (initially using the brand name Fosta-Grantly) catapulted to fame with their now-iconic advertising campaign, “Who’s That Behind Those Foster Grants®,” featuring numerous Hollywood stars.

It is true that tinted glasses were available before 1929 – Sir William Crookes was developing sunglasses in the early part of the 20th Century and he went into partnership with a Wigmore Street Optician (owned by another Sir William – William Wingate) and by 1920 sunglasses (then known as ‘Crookes Lenses’) had become the very height of fashion.

Even more astonishing is a picture that emerged recently of Queen Victoria wearing dark tinted glass in 1900, the year before she died. However, in terms of what we recognise as leisure style sunglasses the credit is certainly due to Sam Foster.

There are many reasons why you should wear sunglasses from a young age. Read our top 5 reasons you should make sure you are wearing sunglasses.

1. Sun-related eye damage occurs in the early ages of childhood, particularly between the ages of 3 to 12 years old. UV damage is cumulative and irreversible so it’s very important to protect children’s eyes as early as possible.
2. 90 percent of all skin cancers occur above the neck and up to 10 percent of all skin cancers occur on the eyelids. Wearing sunglasses with 100% protection from UVR will not only protect your eyes but also the skin around them.
3. Cataracts – a clouding of the lens in the eye that reduces vision – are a common ailment, particularly as people age. Cataract surgery is the most common operation carried out by the National Health Service with 400,000 such operations every year. Wearing sunglasses, especially from a young age, will limit the progression of this ailment that can ultimately lead to blindness.
4. In the UK alone about 70,000 new cases of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are reported every year. AMD causes progressive deterioration of the central area of the retina and according to the RNIB, the British charity for the blind, it’s by far the leading cause of blindness in adults in the UK. The simple precaution of wearing sunglasses with a UV filter will help prevent AMD later in life.
5. Improve your looks. Research carried by Vanessa Brown, a senior lecturer at Nottingham Trent University concluded that sunglasses really do improve your looks because they make your face appear more symmetrical and symmetry is linked to attractiveness.

More stock has just come in including brand new 2019 models from Sea-River in France and BLOC, the high profile British eyewear manufacturer – two of our longest standing suppliers, going back over 10 years.

Sea-River specialise in high quality but affordably priced polarised sports sunglasses; whilst mainly aimed at fishing enthusiasts, they also appeal to boating, watersports, running and skiing enthusiasts. In addition to being polarised all lenses are Class 1 optical quality. Included in the Sea-River range are several photochromic polarised; these are almost certainly the lowest priced photochromic polarised sunglasses available in the UK. Click here to see them.

BLOC are renowned for their frame and lens quality – in all the years we’ve been selling BLOC the number of warranty claims we have had is miniscule. We carry a very extensive selection, many priced at under £20 – fantastic value for money. Click here to see them.

Father’s Day (Sunday 16 June) is rapidly approaching and we’ve got the perfect gift for you! Our Father’s Day Gift Pack is amazing value, comprising a high-quality canvas bag and 8 individual items. In the pack:
Evolution Maine stylish wrap-around polarised sunglass worth £19.95
Evolution Vermont (Grey) classically styled sunglass worth £16.95
Evolution Hunter (Clear) Safety Eyewear – worth £14.95
“Chammy” Lens Cleaning Cloths (3 Pack) – worth £4.95
Lens & Screen Cleaning Spray (30ml) – worth £2.95
Fog Buster Anti-Fog Wipes (10 pack) – worth £4.95
Sunglass (Car) Visor Clip – worth £6.95
Cord Grip (Cord Grip 4) worth £2.95
All supplied in a really useful / versatile Canvas Bag with Velcro fastening (worth £4.95)
Individually the contents sell for £74.60 but you can buy this amazing value Father’s Day Gift Pack for just £29.95 – under half price with free (UK) delivery!  Click here to see it.

• Don’t use a handkerchief or corner of a shirt/blouse. These can contain particles of dust and dirt which can easily scratch your lenses when you start rubbing. Paper towels and napkins are just as bad. They’re essentially pulped wood and surprisingly abrasive whilst also leaving particles of dust on the lens.
• Use a liquid for best results – condensation from your breath isn’t enough, even if you’re using a microfibre cloth. The simplest way is to rinse your sunglasses in warm (not hot) water. This is especially important if they’re covered in sand and salt from the beach. Run a bowl of water and add a couple of drops of mild washing up liquid to it. Then simply give the sunglasses a good dunking to remove all the dirt, gently rub them with your fingers in the water and then dry with a clean, lint-free microfibre cloth. However, don’t apply washing up liquids – particularly citric ones – directly onto lenses as they can be abrasive, some containing salt.
• Don’t forget to clean the frame too. When you wear your sunglasses, the areas most likely to be contaminated with grease, dirt and grime are the nose pads, temples and the frame surrounding the lenses. Clean these too or you could end up smearing skin contact residue onto the lenses.
• Avoid household glass cleaners: general purpose household glass cleaners can contain vinegar, ammonia or even bleach – making these cleaners too ‘aggressive’ as they can strip away mirror or anti-reflective coatings on sunglasses.  Use a proprietary lens cleaner such as this one shown – we have several options available in our accessories section.

Just in is this super stylish Evolution Bayport manufactured exclusively for our sister company Evolution Eyewear Ltd. It has two colour options: a tortoise frame with brown polarised lenses and a black frame with grey polarised lenses. Its contemporary styling will suit men and women and the glare-blocking lenses are completely distortion-free. The super tough TR90 frame is also ultra lightweight for all-day wear. A nice feature is the cam hinges to the temples for easy snap closure. And it’s UV400 rated. Supplied with a cleaning cloth, soft carry pouch and hard case plus free polarised test card it’s terrific value at just £19.95 including free UK delivery. Click here and here to see both colour options.

A new study undertaken by Aintree University Hospital Trust has highlighted the fact that people very rarely apply sunscreen to their eyelids and the area around the eyelashes and between the eyelids and the nose. Yet it this part of the face that’s the most vulnerable to skin cancer because the skin is thin. Study author and consultant ophthalmic and oculoplastic surgeon Austin McCormick said that eyelid cancers accounted for 10% of all basal cell carcinomas in the UK, the most common type of skin cancer, so people should pay particular attention to the eyelid area when putting on any SPF cream.

Commenting on the research, Holly Barber, from the British Association of Dermatologists, believed that people were naturally hesitant to apply sunscreen around the eyes – because it can make them sting; “A good way to avoid problems such as sunburn in areas missed when applying sun protection is to make use of protective clothing such as sun hats and sunglasses, as well as reapplying sunscreen regularly” she said.

We have just taken delivery of 12 brand-new 2019 Floats models (each with colour options). Based in South Beach, Miami, Floats specialise in excellent quality polarised sunglasses at highly affordable prices – every one priced at under £25. We have been selling Floats for 11 years and in all that time we have had a tiny number back with any warrantee issues – testimony to their great quality. Always comfortable to wear, they look superb too using an Italian design team. Click here to see them all – lots of choice!

Some national media coverage recently concerning a very high-profile website quality mark scheme that isn’t all it appears to be. It seems this rating scheme allows its website customers to pay for a ‘premium’ service which means they have the facility to manipulate ratings by removing any low ones including negative reviews. In our minds this renders their scheme worthless and it can’t be trusted. One of the reasons we chose the Trusted Shops scheme is that their audit of any website is very rigorous and completely independent. Not only that but customers post their rating and reviews on the Trusted Shops website not ours so we can’t remove or alter them in any way.  So our current 4.9 out of 5 rating is a true and accurate reflection of our customers’ experience of buying from us. It’s a rating you can trust.

This is the time of year we take in new stock including any brand new 2019 models from our suppliers. We’ve just had a delivery from Montana including several new styles. Montana are made by one of Italy’s largest eyewear companies with a full-time design team based in Switzerland. All models have polarised lenses, they look great and at under £20 are excellent value for money.

Included with this delivery is the new MP66 folding frame model. Folded up it fits into a small purpose designed mini pouch – perfect for your pocket, bag or the car and ideal to take on holiday with  you. Two lens colour options (grey & brown). Click here to see them.

Some ludicrous scare stories have appeared in the media recently claiming you could get fined for wearing sunglasses whilst driving and fined for not wearing them! Guaranteed to confuse people! We’re not sure what the original source of this information was but it’s mostly factually incorrect (that’s being very polite). Let’s set the record straight. The only sunglasses you should NOT wear when driving are Category 4 ones that have very dark lenses. If found to be wearing these, you could be fined and if you had an accident your insurance company is unlikely to pay up. Category 4 sunglasses should be clearly described when sold and clearly marked either on the sunglass or outer packaging.

The vast majority of drivers are only too aware that it can be very difficult to see clearly in bright sun conditions, especially when glare reflects off the road surface or when the sun is low on the horizon. These conditions occur regularly and at all times of the year when driving so of course you should wear sunglasses as an essential, indeed vital, safety measure to combat them. It’s plain commonsense.

As we have mentioned before we strongly recommend you keep a pair of polarised sunglasses ready-to-hand in the car when driving and put them on whenever the sun is shining or low in the sky.

Blue light is everywhere in our world. It used to be that the only source of blue light was from the sun. Now we have brought blue light inside by way of digital screens (found on TV’s, smartphones, computers, laptops, tablets and gaming systems), electronic devices, LED and fluorescent lighting.

What is blue light?

Blue light waves are the among the shortest, highest energy wavelengths in the visible light spectrum. Because they are shorter, these “Blue”  wavelengths “flicker” and this kind of flickering creates a glare that can reduce visual contrast and affect sharpness and clarity. This can cause eye strain, physical and mental fatigue and headaches when you use your electronic devices or sit in front of a computer all day.

Numerous studies now show that exposure to blue light can cause eyestrain, fatigue, headaches and sleeplessness. Prolonged exposure to blue light may lead to macular cellular damage which can lead to loss of vision.

So how can you block blue light?

When outside there are some sunglass brands that have created lenses specifically designed to block blue light. Sundog, Serengeti and Eagle Eyes all feature blue light blocking lenses, the latter claiming to be the original blue light blocking sunglasses (developed by NASA). Because blue light is the “hazy” of the light spectrum by blocking it everything in the field of vision will appear in sharper focus. It’s also worth noting that certain lens colours like orange and red/rose are very good at blocking blue light.

For indoors, when viewing screens, we now carry some reading glasses with blue light blocking lenses (including options with zero magnification). Made by Montana you can see them in our Accessories section.