28/01/2026
☀️😎 Sunglasses & UV Safety: Protecting Your Eyes All Year Round 👀✨
In Australia, we’re no strangers to sunshine. While most of us are good at protecting our skin from UV damage, eye protection is often overlooked.
Quality sunglasses aren’t just a fashion accessory — they’re an essential part of protecting our eyes and keeping them healthy.
Why UV Protection Matters
Your eyes are particularly vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In fact, they’re more sensitive to UV than your skin. Long-term exposure to UV rays has been linked to several eye conditions, including:
Pterygium (surfer’s eye)
Photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye)
Cataracts
Macular degeneration
UV damage is cumulative meaning it builds up over time, and it occurs even on cloudy days or during everyday activities like driving or walking outdoors.
What to Look for in Quality Sunglasses
Not all sunglasses offer the same level of protection. When choosing your next pair, here are 5 key features to look for:
UV Protection
This is the most important factor. Sunglasses should meet Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1067. We recommend choosing category 2 or 3 sunglasses, which offer good UV protection and medium to high levels of sun glare reduction. Dark lenses alone do not guarantee UV protection — always check the label.For more information on the AUS/NZ standards for sunglasses, visit: https://www.productsafety.gov.au/business/search-mandatory-standards/sunglasses-and-fashion-spectacles-mandatory-standard
Polarisation
Polarised lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water, sand, roads and oncoming car headlights. This improves visual comfort and clarity, making them ideal for driving, beach environments, and outdoor and water sports.Frame Wrap & Coverage
Larger frames or wrap-around styles help block UV rays from entering around the sides of the lenses. Better coverage means better protection — perfect for fast-paced outdoor sports (eg. running, cycling, ball sports), working outdoors or for bright, high-glare conditions.Comfort & Fit
Sunglasses should sit comfortably on your nose and ears without slipping or pinching. A well-fitted pair is more likely to be worn consistently, and consistency is key for long-term protection.Style You’ll Actually Wear
The best sunglasses are the ones you’ll wear every day. With so many styles, colours and lens options available these days, it’s easy to find a pair that suits your face shape, lifestyle and personal preference.
Sunglasses for Everyday Use — Not Just Summer
UV exposure doesn’t stop when summer ends. UV rays can still be strong during cooler months, especially near water, sand, concrete and even (or especially) at the snow. Wearing sunglasses year-round helps protect your eyes in the long term.
Prescription sunglasses are also a great option, allowing you to enjoy clear vision, UV protection and glare reduction without compromise.
Need Help Choosing the Right Pair?
At Penry Routson Optometrists, our team can help you find sunglasses that offer the perfect balance of protection, comfort and style. We can also advise on lens options tailored to your vision and lifestyle needs.
Your eyes work hard for you every day. Investing in quality sunglasses is a simple step that can make a big difference to your long-term eye health.