The 14 Best Sunglasses for Kids of 2024, Tested and Approved by Kids, Parents, and Eye Doctors

If your kids are going to be playing outside, they need sunglasses regardless of the season and the weather conditions (plus, they look super cute in their mini shades). Lack of eye protection exposes children to the sun's harmful ultraviolet A and B (UVA and UVB) rays, which can lead to retinal injury, skin cancer, and other serious health complications later in life. Equip your child with a solid pair of sunglasses that match their unique style and, most importantly, fit well and provide the necessary 99% to 100% UV protection. 

To find the best sunglasses for kids, we researched safety guidelines issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), and the Skin Cancer Foundation. We also spoke to parents and medical professionals, including Darius M. Moshfeghi, MD, chief of the Retina Division and professor at the Horngren Family Vitreoretinal Center at Stanford University, and Sarah Guillette, OD, a pediatric optometrist at Akron Children's Hospital

With this expert guidance in mind, we sent 20 top-rated kids’ sunglasses home with our experienced parenting editors to use with their kids, ages 11 months to 12 years old. We started with an initial four-week testing period, but kids have been wearing these sunglasses for over a year now (and continue to wear them). We considered several attributes when testing kids' sunglasses, including design, fit, comfort, durability, and value. A family physician on our Expert Board also reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity regarding sun safety and eye protection.

What Types of Sunglasses Are Best for Kids?

Kids' sunglasses (just like kids' sunscreen) should protect against both UVA and UVB rays, according to the AAO. First, look for sunglasses that specify that they block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB light—if it doesn't say 99% to 100%, choose another pair. You might also see a label that says UV400. This means that the glasses protect against all types of UV light with wavelengths under 400 nanometers, which includes UVA (which has a wavelength between 315 and 400) and UVB (which has a wavelength between 280 and 315). So sunglasses labeled this way will also offer enough protection for kids.

Should Kids Wear Polarized Lenses?

UV blocking and polarization are not the same. Polarized lenses have a chemical coating that blocks horizontal light waves that bounce off surfaces (the ones that cause glares and reflections) and help reduce light glare and eye strain. Although they can be used any time your child is outdoors, polarized lenses are a necessity when glare is an issue, such as during water activities, while playing outdoor sports, and in sandy and snowy environments. Note that polarized lenses don't necessarily include UV protection, so if you're going this route, be sure to look for kids' sunglasses that provide both.

Our Favorites

• Best Overall: Babiators Original Navigators
• Best Warranty: Minishades Polarized Kids Sunglasses at Walmart
• Best for All Ages: WeeStyle Polarized WeeFarers at Maisonette.com
• Best for Baseball: Under Armour Kids' UA TUNED Gametime Jr. Sunglasses
• Best for Sports: Vatter Sport Sunglasses
• Best Unbreakable: Cocosand Classic Square Baby Sunglasses with Strap
• Best for Babies: Baby Banz Polarized Wrap Around Sunglasses
• Best Budget: Rivbos Kids Sunglasses Polarized UV Protection
• Best Cool Sunglasses: Knockaround Kids' Sk8er Sunglasses
• Best for Preschoolers: BIB-ON Kid's First Sunglasses

Best Overall: Babiators Original Navigators

Why We Like It

Flexible, durable, and adorable—the Babiators Original Navigators shine on our list. They’re available in a dozen color options, like jet black and iridescent two-tones, for kids from newborns to 10-year-olds. The impact and shatter-resistant lenses are no match for tiny hands or curious mouths. Each pair is BPA-free and features dark UV400 lenses to fully protect eyes and skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays.

The soft yet solid rubber frame unfolds effortlessly, so children can put them on independently. We’re impressed with the sunglasses’ durability: During our test, we threw, twisted, and stepped on this pair, and they suffered zero damage. Our kids even tried pulling them apart, but to no avail (sorry, not sorry, kiddos). The Babiators sunglasses have held up well over months of use and still look brand new. 

The durability of the Babiators Original Navigators alone is priceless; your kiddo will likely outgrow them before they ever break. Each pair comes with a microfiber case for storage and cleaning, but the company also offers hard cases (sold separately). Bonus: If your child loses or somehow breaks the sunglasses, the company will replace them for free for up to one year after your purchase (you only have to pay for shipping). 

But Take Note

While the Original Navigators lack adjustability, we found the fit true to size. Despite small gaps along the side, they never fell off our kids’ faces or left marks on their skin. Children can easily pair the sunnies with a hat without feeling uncomfortable or sitting too low on their faces. To find a proper fit, Babiators provides parents and caregivers with a detailed size guide broken down by age, measurements, and style. 

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Newborn to 6 years +
• Lens Type: Non-polarized (depends on style)
• Frame Material: Rubber
• Protection Rating: UV400
  

Best Warranty: Minishades Polarized Kids Sunglasses

Why We Like It

Kids always lose stuff, so to say we appreciate the Hide n’ Seek Warranty of the Minishade Polarized Classic would be an understatement. If your child loses or damages their sunglasses, the company will send you a one-time replacement pair of the same size and color (you just have to pay a $7.95 processing fee). 

Minishades makes sunglasses for all ages, from newborns to centenarians, so the whole family can rock the same shades. The classic design fits various styles and comes in dozens of color options—all with the same polarized lenses that provide 100% UV protection. Plus, the lenses are Rx compatible, meaning you can add prescription lenses if your child normally wears glasses. The rubber-like frame is stable and reliable and effortlessly held up against bending and twisting from the hands of a 5-year-old in our test. Even our parenting editors were surprised at the flexibility of the sunglasses. 

We thought the sunglasses fit comfortably, neither too snug nor loose on our children’s faces. They don’t adjust, but we didn’t feel like they needed to. There were no significant gaps between the face and glasses, and kids never lost momentum on the playground while wearing them. In fact, we had some kiddos wear the sunglasses while rocking a bike helmet and they always felt comfortable. 

But Take Note

For $20, we’re thrilled about what we get in return: a durable, reliable, and stylish pair of sunglasses for kids. Just note that these sunglasses don't include a storage case or come with any accessories.

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Newborn to 12 years+
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Rubber
• Protection Rating: 100% UV protection
  

Best for All Ages: WeeStyle Polarized WeeFarers

Why We Like It

The WeeStyle Co. Polarized WeeFarers give us major Ray-Ban vibes with a simple, classic style that works for all ages. All color and pattern options (13 total) feature polarized lenses with nearly the same logo font (and placement) famously known to the Ray-Ban brand—but at more than half the cost. The FDA-approved impact-resistant lenses have the highest UV protection rating of UV400 to help minimize glare from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

One of our favorite features of the WeeFarers is the included adjustable strap to keep the sunglasses secure on busybodies. Our kids wore the sunglasses with and without the strap, often finding they usually didn’t need it (but it was nice to have). The shades fit comfortably and don’t allow too much sunlight to leak through the edges. They also don’t leave any indentations on the skin after extended periods of fun in the sun.

If you’re looking for kids’ sunglasses that look like Ray-Bans—but with a lower price tag—you and your kiddo will love this alternative. They’re comfortable, trendy, and durable, and most importantly, they shield delicate eyes so kids can play outside safely. Like the Babiators Original Navigators, WeeStyle Co. guarantees a free replacement for up to one year if your child loses or damages their pair; shipping is the only expense you’ll pay out of pocket. They also come with a protective microfiber storage pouch.

But Take Note

During testing, we appreciated the 100% UVA and UVB protection for our kids, who wore these shades while playing outside and wearing a bike helmet. The sturdy frame and lenses show no wear or tear other than the expected fingerprint or two. While the shades fit well on various face sizes, we recommend these for light play and casual wearing rather than high-intensity sports.

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Newborn to 12 years +
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Plastic
• Protection Rating: UV400
  

Best for Baseball: Under Armour Kids' UA TUNED Gametime Jr. Sunglasses

Why We Like It

Kids will feel like real MLB players with the Under Armour Kids' UA TUNED Gametime Jr. Sunglasses. This pair boasts the same mirrored style you've likely seen players on your favorite baseball team wear. The impact-resistant lenses provide 100% UVA and UVB protection for those sunny days on the field. The rectangular shape covers kids' eyes directly and to the side to prevent the sun from peeking through. While there are only two color options, orange and blue, the lenses' vibrancy against the frame adds style.

Upon opening the sunglasses for the first time, we initially thought they appeared small. However, they fit kids just right without causing any discomfort, regardless of how long they play. A highlight feature of the Under Armour Kids' sunglasses is the fully adjustable nose pad with lasered engraving to provide extra security and comfort. The sunglasses left a small mark on the bridge of the nose, but kids never complained about pain or feeling uncomfortable. Overall, they fit like a glove.

But Take Note

During our testing period, we had kids wear these sunglasses to many baseball games, and they fared beautifully against being tossed and thrown in the dugout between plays. The only downside we found was that the sunglasses smudge easily, but there's no other wear or tear. Also, it's worth noting that these sunglasses are the most expensive on our list, but given the Under Armour brand name, it's not exactly sticker shock. They're a high-quality pair of kids' sunglasses that are a home run in style and protection. 

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Not listed
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Plastic
• Protection Rating: UV400
  

Best for Sports: Vatter Sport Sunglasses

Why We Like It

Whether your child is a softball player or an aspiring angler, if they play sports, they will need a trusty pair of sunglasses to shield their eyes. These VATTER polarized kids’ sunglasses feature a special filter to prevent glare from flat surfaces, such as water or snow. We appreciate the 100% UV400 lenses’ protection rating against the sun’s harmful rays (meaning no more “the sun was in my eyes” comments after a game). Made of soft silicone, these sunglasses are durable and still look brand new despite many uses at baseball practices and games. We experienced zero issues with lenses popping up, flimsiness, and overall quality. The company includes a soft and hard case for storage off the field and to protect the sunnies.

We love the adjustability of these kids’ sports sunglasses. They come with an adjustable eyewear rope to secure fit and prevent losing them. During our test, kids told us they felt like the sunglasses enhanced their playing experience by blocking the sun and staying put no matter how fast they ran, how hard they pitched, or if they slid to home plate. If the sunglasses start to feel loose, just use the small screwdriver (included) to tighten the pieces. Strong, flexible, and dependable, the Vatter sunglasses handled various activities like a champ.

But Take Note

The $16 price tag feels like a steal for the excellent quality you receive in return. While there’s no set age recommendation for the sunglasses, we think they’d fit great on kids ages 5 to 11 (too big for preschoolers or younger children). They’re a solid pair if you’re looking for kids’ sports sunglasses, but their durability is worth it even off the field for protection at the park, playground, pool, and more.

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Not listed
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Silicone
• Protection Rating: UV400
  

Best Unbreakable: Cocosand Classic Square Baby Sunglasses with Strap

Why We Like It

Things are bound to break at the hands of curious fingers and rough play—but not the Cocosand baby sunglasses. We're not saying breaking them is impossible, but kids will have a hard time trying. The frame is made of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a flexible rubber-like material that's durable against any chuck across the room. 

While evaluating their durability, we noticed these sunglasses were flexible enough to twist and turn, always maintaining their shape and great quality. The 100% UV400 polycarbonate lenses block UVA, UVB, and harmful blue rays and are impact-resistant against mini Hulks. 

If you're looking for a stylish or strong pair of kids' sunglasses, these shades check both boxes. Moreover, the rounded nose pad shape helps reduce pressure for a comfier fit. The sunglasses also come with a soft microfiber carrying pouch for travel and a cleaning cloth to remove tiny fingerprint smudges.

But Take Note

These toddler sunglasses are super stylish and come in 21 color options. Like the WeeStyle Co. WeeFarers, the Cocosand Classic is a mini version of the Ray-Ban Wayfarers, but with an adjustable and removable strap. We found that the strap fits snugly without cutting into the skin and helped secure the sunnies for any activity. Depending on a child's activity, the straps may pop off easily (but they're just as easy to put back in place).

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Newborn to 2 years old
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Thermoplastic elastomer
• Protection Rating: UV400

Best for Babies: Baby Banz Polarized Wrap Around Sunglasses

Why We Like It

Instill the healthy habit of wearing shades early with the Baby Banz Bubzee Polarized Wrap Sunglasses. While babies under 6 months old should be kept out of direct sunlight, sunglasses can help the eyes from developing UV-related diseases when outdoors in the sunshine. These baby sunglasses feature an adjustable Velcro strap to fit growing heads, and we love that it matches any color option you choose (13 total). 

The Baby Banz sunglasses fit snugly but not too tight around the head. We noticed the lenses sit close to the eyes to block out light from the sides without leaving indentations on the skin. An embedded rubber nose and brow piece provide additional comfort to your favorite face. Store them in the included soft carrying bag for extra protection.

The sunnies are durable, even when up against the consistent throws from an 11-month-old. The 100% polarized lenses (also prescription-friendly) are shatter-resistant and reduce glare from the sun, whether reflecting off fresh snow or the pool. Plus, they showed no signs of wear or tear—not even scratches—after months of use.

But Take Note

We had mixed feelings regarding the design: While some parenting editors love the sporty style, others wish for a less athletic feel. We also wish the adjustable strap were a bit longer, so littles wouldn't outgrow them too quickly. Baby Banz offers a one-year replacement guarantee should the sunglasses break. Be sure to register your pair within 30 days of your purchase to take advantage of the warranty. 

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Newborn to 2 years old
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Polycarbonate
• Protection Rating: 100% UV protection
  

Best Budget: Rivbos Kids Sunglasses Polarized UV Protection

Why We Like It

Sunglasses are vital for your kids’ eye health, but they can come at a cost depending on the brand and style. The Rivbos Kids Sunglasses are a notable exception. Available in nearly 20 color options, there’s a color pattern for every kiddo’s style. We love how the composite frame is soft, flexible, and durable. One of our 3-year-olds dropped these shades several times and they never suffered any damage. At the end of our testing period, the sunglasses looked the same as the day we opened them—brand new. 

A removable strap allows kids to find a good fit, hang them around their necks, and avoid losing them. Not too tight or loose, the sunglasses fit just right on a preschooler’s face without any large gaps on the side. They also have a strong hinge to keep the unit together if kids try to stretch them out while putting them on. 

The low price tag was surprising but in a good way. Considering their durability, multiple style selections, and adjustability, we expected to pay more for these. 

But Take Note

The plastic lenses are polarized and feature UV protection and anti-reflective and scratch-resistant coatings, so they’re bound to last for a long time. The only downside is how dark the lenses are (depending on the style selected)—it can be slightly intimidating for kids who don’t wear sunglasses consistently.

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: 3 years +
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Composite
• Protection Rating: UV400
  

Best Cool Sunglasses: Knockaround Kids' Sk8er Sunglasses

Why We Like It

The Knockaround Kids SK8ER Sunglasses are cool and trendy without sacrificing UV protection. A gender-neutral design makes them great for kids ages 1 to 5. The frame is solid black on the front, while the arms feature a retro checkerboard pattern with a yellow “K” logo for flare. Our kids wore the sunglasses to the playground, mall, and other places and tossed them around the car (even the floor) on the way to each destination.

To test proper fit, we asked the kids to shake their heads back and forth to see if the sunglasses stayed in place. The SK8ers barely moved despite their non-wrap-around design. They stayed put through all activities, running, walking, and climbing. Our kiddos reported that these sunglasses felt pretty comfortable and left no marks on the skin, even when worn with a baseball cap. 

These sunglasses' versatility is worth their fair price. Kids can wear them at the playground, while lounging at the beach, or during a Sunday drive with the windows down. You don’t even have to worry about your plastic footprint because the company removes a pound of plastic from the environment for every pound it uses in production. 

But Take Note

We’re thankful for the thick construction of the sunglasses, which makes them feel strong and durable despite rough treatment. After our initial testing, the sunglasses looked brand new, minus a few fingerprints. We used a lens cleaner (not included) to remove smudges from the UV400 protective lenses and stored them in the protective pouch (included). 

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: 1 to 5 years old
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Plastic
• Protection Rating: UV400
  

Best for Preschoolers: BIB-ON Kid's First Sunglasses

Why We Like It

These vintage-style kids’ sunglasses are downright adorable. The BIB-ON sunnies have polarized lenses to provide complete UV protection for eyes, whether at the playground or in the backyard at home. A flexible silicone frame encompasses the dark lenses, but the retro design may not win over every kiddo. The frames are available in a one- or two-pack with multiple color selections, like blue and black or double pink. Despite being lightweight, they’re really durable and didn't show any damage after months of testing.

We love how you can pick from a one-pack or two-pack of BIB-ON sunglasses for kids. But buying the two-pack is a better deal. Regardless of how many you’d like to purchase, these shades look cool, fit well, and provide plenty of protection. They also include a thin storage pouch to prevent scratches.

But Take Note

As for fit, we’re impressed with how well these stay on moving kids. The sunglasses remained in place the whole time while our kids climbed and swung at the playground. Unfortunately, the shades don’t feature a wrap-around design, so the sunlight does peek through the edges. Kids can easily and comfortably wear the sunglasses with a bike or scooter helmet. We saw no marks or indentations left on the skin and heard zero complaints from wearers. 

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: 4 to 7 years old
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Silicone
• Protection Rating: 100% UV protection

Best for Older Kids: Pair The Larkin

Why We Like It

The Larkins by Pair is a great option for older kids just discovering their own style. These sunglasses come in six different base frame colors, like clear to blue tortoise (a.k.a. dark blue), and kids can choose from seven lens colors, including black, green, and reflective. The rectangular frame is mature, classic, and trendy, prompting one of our preteens to strike a pose upon immediately trying them on. Made with tough acetate, the sunglasses are strong and feel like prescription glasses. All Larkins come with 100% polarized lenses that block UVA and UVB rays and reduce glare for less eye strain. Both the frame and lenses look brand new after months of wear, sporting no scratches or other changes in quality. You can store them in the included storage case.

The Pair Larkins are, without a doubt, fashionable for any older kid’s wardrobe. According to the company, the Larkins fit best on older kids and adults with narrow faces, and we agree. The 12-year-old who tested this pair says the shades fit snugly and comfortably without bouncing or sliding off throughout the day. We love how you can choose from four lens types—non-prescription, single-vision, progressive, and readers—to accommodate changing eyes. Plus, take advantage of free shipping on all orders over $45 and a free 30-day return and exchange policy. 

Bonus: If your cool kid isn’t a fan of the color options available, they can shop the company’s “sun tops.” These snap onto the front of a Larkin base frame, so kids can interchange as often as they want. 

But Take Note

The stems open and close effortlessly and have the right amount of give. Due to the lack of a wrap-around design, some sunlight squeezes through the gaps on the side, but it’s not overbearing. 

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Older kids/adults with narrow faces (specific age range not listed)
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Acetate
• Protection Rating: Not listed
  

Best Flexible: Ten Little x Roshambo Sunglasses

Why We Like It

The flexibility of the Ten Little x Roshambo Sunglasses is impressive. Ten Little says the sunglasses' arms are bendable and flexible, and it’s true—they passed the bend and twist tests with flying colors and didn't lose their high-quality feel. We appreciate the polarized lenses that reduce glare and provide 100% UVA, UVB, and UVC protection.

We love how lightweight the sunglasses are and their customized carrying pouch (included) that doubles as a polishing cloth. The lenses and frame survived multiple throws to the floor from the hands of a 16-month-old during testing. Pick between five color options, like a gender-neutral teal, for kids from birth to 12 years old. You can also add a child’s prescription to them. 

But Take Note

The bendy frame allows for a proper and comfy fit without digging into the skin. During our test, we noticed slight gaps between a child’s face and the sunglasses, but it was fairly minimal. A head strap and adjuster kit for the ears can keep the sunglasses on your child’s face and tighten up the fit if needed, but they’re sold separately. 

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Newborn to 12 years old
• Lens Type: Polarized
• Frame Material: Not listed
• Protection Rating: 100% UV protection
  

Best for Active Kids: X Loop Kids Sports Sunglasses

Why We Like It

Kids need a pair of sunnies that will keep up with their many activities, which is why we love the X Loop Kids Sports Sunglasses. These specs resemble a mini version of adult sunglasses, with a sporty style in nearly 20 color combinations. Each pair features lenses with UV400 protection from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays.

The highlight feature of the sunglasses is the rubber material found on the arms to keep the glasses in place by the ears. While they don’t sit on the bridge of the nose, the sunglasses do stay in place despite lots of movement from kiddos. Thanks to the wrap-around design and grippy material, they never fell off any faces during our test. And you know they’re comfy when the kids ask to put them on unprompted!

From the highest protection rating to a comfortable and seamless fit, we think the X Loop sunglasses offer a fair value. No need to worry about buying a case; they come in a soft pouch for storage. 

But Take Note

Though they easily smudged when in contact with a finger due to their large size, they didn't show any scratches or other damage after being thrown on the floor by young siblings (ages 1 and 3) in our test. Plus, the wide frame prevents the sun from peeking through the sides. 

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: 3 to 10 years old
• Lens Type: Non-polarized
• Frame Material: Plastic
• Protection Type: UV400
  

Best for Toddlers: Tuga Sunwear Tuga Baby/Toddler UV 400 Sunglasses

Why We Like It

These Tuga sunglasses were such a hit with toddlers, many tears were shed when it was time to take them off. While there are only three colors to choose from—black, blue, and pink—each one comes with a matching strap and hard case. On the plus side, the plastic material and polycarbonate lenses (UV400 protection rating) feel like they would survive the apocalypse. We also stored them in their hard case for extra protection, which helped prevent scratches in between uses. 

These kids’ sunglasses are nothing fancy, but they get the job done (and efficiently, too). You’re not only paying for a pair of kids’ sunglasses, but you also get a hard case that comes in handy to preserve their high-quality feel. 

But Take Note

An adjustable band helps parents and caregivers find the best fit for their child and hold the shades in place. You can adjust the strap to be tighter or looser, but keep in mind the smaller frames and your child’s age. Unfortunately, the plastic frames are on the smaller side, and the adjustable strap was nearly too small for one 2.5-year-old tester. We noticed indentations on a child’s nose near the eyebrows and attributed it to the smaller frame on the child’s face. The company says the glasses fit children from birth to 5 years old, but we recommend them for babies and young toddlers.

The Details:

• Age Recommendation: Newborn to 5 years old
• Lens Type: Non-polarized
• Frame Material: Plastic
• Protection Type: UV400
  

Other Notable Kids' Sunglasses

• Sunski Mini Dipsea Tortoise Ocean Sunglasses: The design of these Sunski shades is super cute and stylish (and available in two colors). However, their tight fit was a huge letdown for the 10-year-old who tried them on. They pressed too hard into the sides of the head, making for an uncomfortable fit. They’d likely fare better on a younger child or kids with a small face, but be sure to size up if you decide to buy them.
• Sojos Cute Round Polarized Sunglasses: The Sojos sunglasses feature a retro design that will have you feeling like you’re in the midst of the 1970s. Depending on your kid's preference, this style can be a hit or miss. Unfortunately, they felt stiff and suffered small scratches on the pretty matte frame. 
• Ray-Ban Aviator Junior: The aviator style of these Ray-Ban sunglasses gave us “Top Gun” vibes and was a grand slam with a 6-year-old tester who thought they were cool and stylish. The biggest downfall was the fit; they often drooped to the end of his nose and felt heavy and loose.

Our Testing Process

To select the best sunglasses for kids, we evaluated dozens of options on the market and spoke with medical experts about what to look for in kids’ sunglasses, such as protection, design, fit, and more. We sent 20 top-rated kids' sunglasses—that meet all safety guidelines and are recommended by experts—home with 16 parenting editors to use with their kids, ages 11 months to 12 years. Kids and their parents evaluated the sunglasses for an initial four-week testing period—and continue to use them and provide feedback—on these attributes:

• Fit: Kids tried on the sunglasses to gauge fit, ensuring they were snug around the ears and across the nose without feeling tight or leaving marks behind.
• Comfort: After the initial fitting, kids continued to wear the sunnies in different settings, such as at the park, in the car, and anywhere else they might be exposed to UVA and UVB rays. We asked for our kids’ opinions to determine if the sunglasses felt comfortable or tight. Kids of all ages wore the sunglasses on sunny and overcast days to get an idea of protection in various weather conditions. We also asked our parenting editors to have their child wear the glasses with a hat or helmet to find out if they interfere with headwear during activities like riding a bike or hanging out at the beach.
• Design: We wanted to know whether kids liked the design and how the shades fared while they did normal kid things, like riding in the car, running, doing sports, or climbing on the playground. According to Dr. Moshfeghi, sunglasses should fit close to the face to prevent light from leaking around the sides, which was another observation we carefully considered. 
• Durability: We made notes of any damage along the way, such as a lens popping out or the fit changing with consistent wear. 
  

Our Experts

For guidance on sun safety, eye protection, and product recommendations, we spoke with experienced Parents editors and writers, who are parents themselves, and the two eye doctors below:

• Darius M. Moshfeghi, MD, chief of the Retina Division and professor at the Horngren Family Vitreoretinal Center, Byers Eye Institute at Stanford University
• Sarah Guillette, OD, pediatric optometrist at Akron Children’s Hospital
  

Factors to Consider When Shopping for Kids' Sunglasses

• Age: Dr. Moshfeghi and Dr. Guillette both agree that kids should start wearing sunglasses as soon as possible to protect their eyes from UV damage. According to Dr. Guillette, severe eye disease and ocular complications can happen later in life from chronic UV exposure to the eyes, so it’s never too early to protect your child’s eyes. Take into account your kid’s temperament and age when you invest in sunglasses. Young toddlers will often tolerate sunglasses with a strap around their heads, while older kiddos tend to prefer styles that stay put without a strap.
• UV Protection: Sunglasses break down into five categories depending on how much light they let through to the eyes. The most common categories, 2 and 3, allow for ideal protection in medium to high light situations, like being outside on a sunny day or partaking in beach activities. Dr. Guillette and Dr. Moshfeghi recommend that parents and caregivers look for protection against both UVA and UVB light rays. UVA rays can cause skin aging, while UVB rays can lead to skin burning, and both are harmful to the eyes if precaution is not taken. Sunglasses should block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB radiation to prevent long-term exposure to sunlight. Dr. Moshfeghi says there is a high risk of exposure to ultraviolet rays even on overcast days. 
• Polarization: In addition to looking for UVA and UVB protection in sunglasses, consider polarized versus non-polarized lenses. Whether or not you need polarization depends on where you intend to use the sunglasses. According to Dr. Guillette, polarized lenses decrease glare from water, snow, and other reflective surfaces while providing UV-ray blockage in the tint of the glasses. On the other hand, non-polarizing lenses only provide UV protection; they do not reduce glare, she adds. Dr. Moshfeghi also says that the color of the lens doesn’t make a difference; you just want to ensure the sunglasses have 99% to 100% UVA and UVB protection. Pair a hat with your kiddo’s sunglasses for additional protection from the sun. Hats alone can block the sun’s rays, but they’re not defensive against the ambient light that can reflect from the ground, Dr. Moshfeghi explains.
  
• Comfortable Fit: It’s crucial to find a good fit for sunglasses to protect your child’s eyes. According to Dr. Guillette, glasses should sit up on the nose without sliding down as kids move. Moreover, they shouldn’t be too wide or narrow—they should fit the width of your child’s face without pressing too hard against their ears or head. A snug fit is ideal, and coverage between the eyes and the middle of the cheeks is what you should look for. Consider kids' sunglasses with a strap to prevent them from slipping off, Dr. Guillette says. However, don’t force your child to wear a strap if it’s uncomfortable.
• Design: Choose a frame type based on both your child’s preference and practicality (such as if they will be for casual wear or sports practice). For older kids, get their opinion before you purchase, as many brands offer several frame and lens color options. If they like the glasses, they’ll be more likely to wear them. For younger kids, wrap-around styles (ones that curve or extend at the edges or sides) and glasses with straps are less likely to be lost or worn incorrectly. Additionally, the snug fit can help prevent light from peeking through. When in doubt, opt for kids’ sunglasses with a decoration or pattern they like, such as their favorite movie character, Dr. Moshfeghi suggests. If your child is new to sunglasses, teach them how to store them in a pouch or hard case to protect them.
  

Who We Are

Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mom. She spent several years in broadcast journalism but found her true passion in writing about the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. In her spare time, you’ll likely find her in the beautiful outdoors of Oklahoma with her husband and 4-year-old son. To protect her kiddo’s eyes, she bought the Cocosand Baby Sunglasses (twice—after losing the initial pair). She loves how durable, flexible, and adorable they are while providing the necessary protection against the sun’s rays. 

Additional reporting by: 

Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 7-year-old son, and 3-year-old daughter. Her strategy with kids' sunglasses is to have them in multiple places—the pool bag, the car, and in the front door organizer. The more glasses there are around, the more likely it is that someone is going to wear them.