When summer hits, and temperatures soar into the 90s, you still want to look stylish without spending a fortune.
That’s where cool, comfortable, and protective sunglasses come in. Whether you’re thinking of the $15 pair you tossed in your gym bag or the $50 shades that scream designer without the price tag, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve done the legwork to find the best men’s sunglasses that won’t break the bank. After researching dozens of pairs, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 6 affordable sunglasses for men.
Each pair provides full UV protection and has optional polarized lenses, all for under $60. Ready to dive in?
Our Picks
1. Sungait Vintage Round Sunglasses
If you love sturdy yet stylish sunglasses, the Sungait Vintage Round Sunglasses are your new best friend.
These shades, typically priced around $15, come with a lifetime warranty. Made from strong, lightweight, and flexible TR90 plastic, they fit most face shapes and are available in various colors.
The classic design with a keyhole nose bridge and metal temples is timeless. Toss them in your car, backpack, or by the door – you’ll always be prepared.
Design and Aesthetics: Imagine the iconic Ray-Ban Erika but at a wallet-friendly price. These sunglasses are available in several colors, making them easy to pair with any outfit.
Fit and Comfort: They fit snugly on small to medium-sized faces. They might feel a bit tight if you have a larger head, but they’re generally secure and lightweight.
Durability and Quality: These are made from TR90 plastic, which means they’re tough. We tested them by scraping with keys and bending the frames – they passed with flying colors. Plus, that lifetime breakage warranty is a sweet bonus.
Pros:
- Stylish and versatile
- Low return rate (most customers keep them)
- Light and secure fit
- Durable TR90 plastic construction
- Lifetime breakage warranty
Cons:
- Might be snug for larger heads
2. Kent Wang Sunglasses Keyhole
Price: $55 from Kent Wang
For a luxe look without the high price tag, check out the Kent Wang Sunglasses Keyhole. These round acetate frames come in small and large sizes, fitting a variety of face shapes.
Made from glossy bio-plastic, they feel high-end. The flexible spring hinges add both comfort and durability, making these a long-term addition to your wardrobe.
Design and Aesthetics: These sunglasses, featuring a keyhole nose bridge and round lenses, have a glossy, high-end finish that makes them look more expensive than they are.
Fit and Comfort: Available in two sizes, they fit both small and large faces. The spring hinges allow the frames to flex, fitting comfortably without pinching.
Durability and Quality: Made from durable acetate with spring hinges, these sunglasses are built to last. They easily passed our stress tests, including lens-scraping and frame-bending.
Pros:
- High-end look
- Two sizes available
- Durable acetate frames with spring hinges
Cons:
- On the higher end of “cheap” sunglasses
- No pouch or case is included
For additional tips on dressing smartly in the heat, see our 7 Essential Tips for Mastering Affordable Smart Casual Style.
3. I-SEA Men’s Wyatt Polarized Sunglasses
Price: $38 at Amazon
Elevate your style and protect your eyes with the I-SEA Men’s Wyatt Polarized Sunglasses. At around $30, these sunglasses combine aesthetics with functionality, offering excellent coverage and a timeless design.
Crafted from durable materials, they’re perfect for an active lifestyle while providing essential UV protection.
Design and Aesthetics:
These sunglasses feature a broad frame with an attractive square shape that flatters wider face shapes. Available in stunning colors, they can easily complement any beachwear or casual outfit and offer a trendy look inspired by the sea.
Fit and Comfort:
These sunglasses are comfortable for various face shapes and include stainless steel spring hinges that ensure they stay secure even during long wear. The broad frame design adds to the overall comfort, making them ideal for all-day use.
Durability and Quality:
Built to last with scratch-resistant coated lenses and sturdy frames.
The polarized lenses offer clear vision and reduce glare, making them ideal for outdoor activities like sunbathing, surfing, and fishing.
Pros:
- Stylish and versatile design
- Wide coverage for enhanced sun protection
- Durable construction with scratch-resistant lenses
- Polarized lenses reduce glare
- Comfortable fit with stainless steel spring hinges
Cons:
- Slightly higher price compared to other budget options
4. Goodr OG Sunglasses
Price: $25 from Goodr.com
The Goodr OG sunglasses are inspired by the classic Ray-Ban Wayfarer. With medium-sized trapezoidal lenses and thick plastic frames, they’re versatile and timeless.
Available in over 50 colors and lens options, these sunglasses are perfect for any occasion. Their matte texture and grip coating make them ideal for active days, ensuring they stay put during intense activities.
Design and Aesthetics: They have a classic trapezoidal shape with a matte texture, giving them a sporty yet elegant look. With over 50 color options, you’re sure to find a pair that matches your style.
Fit and Comfort: They fit medium-sized faces best but can accommodate larger heads due to their flexible frames. The keyhole bridge provides a comfortable fit, and the grip coating keeps them secure during physical activities.
Durability and Quality: Made from durable plastic with a non-slip grip coating, these sunglasses are built for action. They passed our durability tests, including lens scratching and frame bending, without any issues.
Pros:
- Classic and versatile design
- Many color options
- Durable and flexible frames
- Grip coating to prevent slipping
Cons:
- Rubberized coating limits versatility
- Plastic hinges instead of metal
5. I-Sea Cove Sunglasses
Price: $38 at I-Sea.com
The I-SEA Cove sunglasses are a top pick for a polished look with square frames. These medium-sized nylon frames comfortably fit medium-sized faces.
The Cove’s glossy surface and wire-core temples give them an elegant look, perfect for any occasion. Despite their 60-day warranty, they’re durable and stylish, making them a great choice.
Design and Aesthetics: These sunglasses look high-end. They feature large square lenses in glossy nylon frames with decorative rivets at the corners. The wire-core temples add durability.
Fit and Comfort: They comfortably fit medium-sized faces with long temples to prevent pinching behind the ears. The wider keyhole bridges are suitable for bigger noses but may slide on low-nose bridges.
Durability and Quality: Made from nylon, these sunglasses are built to last. The wire-core temples keep them in shape, and the polarized lenses are scratch and impact-resistant.
Pros:
- Sleek and elegant design
- Comfortable fit for medium-sized faces
- Nylon frames with wire-core temples
Cons:
- 60-day warranty
- May slip on low-nose bridges
6. Sunski Shoreline Sunglasses
Price: $58 from Sunski.com
The Sunski Shoreline sunglasses offer a beachy twist on the classic aviator. With large square lenses in translucent recycled plastic frames, they have a surfer vibe.
These lightweight and comfortable sunglasses for bigger heads feature a matte texture to prevent chafing. They also come with a lifetime warranty, making them both stylish and durable.
Design and Aesthetics: The Shoreline sunglasses have a unique aviator design with large square lenses and a flat top bar. The translucent frames give a modern twist to the classic look, making them perfect for beach and casual wear.
Fit and Comfort: They comfortably fit larger heads, with molded nose pads and a matte texture to prevent slipping during active days.
Durability and Quality: Made from recycled plastic, they’re lightweight yet sturdy. They passed our durability tests with flying colors and come with a lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Unconventional aviator design
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Recycled plastic frames
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- More expensive than other options
- It may be too big for smaller faces
How We Selected the Glasses for Our List
We looked at several factors to ensure you get the best men’s sunglasses:
- Price: All sunglasses are under $70, with most picks under $35.
- UV Protection: Only glasses with 99% to 100% UV protection or labeled UV400 were considered.
- Polarization: All picks have polarized lenses or offer polarization options to reduce glare and eye strain.
- Style: We included classic shapes like round, square, cat-eye, and aviator.
- Quality: We chose high-quality frames, smooth hinges, and scratch-resistant lenses.
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Men’s Business Casual Summer Style for more tips on maintaining a professional look during the hotter months.
The Verdict
You don’t have to max out your credit card to find the best men’s sunglasses. Our top six picks offer a range of styles, from vintage rounds to modern aviators, all under $60.
You’ll look great and stay protected from the sun with full UV protection, durable materials, and stylish designs.
Whether you prefer the classic look of the Sungait Vintage Round Sunglasses or the beachy feel of the Sunski Shoreline, there’s a pair for every man.
FAQ on the Best Cheap Sunglasses for Men
1. What should I look for in metal frame sunglasses?
When choosing metal frame sunglasses, look for durability, comfort, and style. Metal frames are sturdy and often come with adjustable nose pads for a customized fit. The Kent Wang Sunglasses Keyhole, for instance, features a luxurious acetate frame with spring hinges for added durability.
2. How do retro and oversized sunglasses compare?
Retro sunglasses, such as the round frames of the Sungait Vintage Round Sunglasses, offer a classic look that never goes out of fashion. Oversized sunglasses provide a bold, fashionable statement while offering extensive eye protection. Depending on your preference, both styles can be fashionable and functional.
3. Why are adjustable nose pads important?
Adjustable nose pads are important because they allow you to customize the fit of your sunglasses, ensuring comfort and stability. They are especially useful for metal frame sunglasses, which might need extra adjustment to sit comfortably on your nose.
4. What are flat-top sunglasses?
Flat-top sunglasses feature a straight, horizontal top bar, giving them a bold and contemporary look. They are available in various frame shapes and sizes, including oversized and aviator styles, and can make a fashionable statement.
5. What makes wayfarer-style sunglasses popular?
Wayfarer-style sunglasses are popular due to their classic and versatile design. They suit various face shapes, offer good eye protection, and can be worn with both casual and formal outfits. Their timeless look and feel make them a staple in many wardrobes. The Goodr OG Sunglasses are a great example of this style.
6. Are mirror lenses a good choice?
Mirror lenses are a good choice to reduce glare and add a stylish touch to your sunglasses. They are available in many colors and can enhance your pair of shades’ overall look and feel while providing excellent eye protection.
7. Do sunglasses with a flat top and aviator shape offer good eye protection?
Yes, sunglasses with a flat top and aviator shape offer good eye protection. The aviator design provides extensive coverage, and the flat top adds a modern twist. Look for pairs with UV protection and durable materials to ensure the best performance.
8. Can I find fashionable sunglasses that also provide good eye protection?
Absolutely! Many fashionable sunglasses also provide excellent eye protection. Look for features like UV400 protection, polarized lenses, and durable frames. Styles like aviator, wayfarer, and retro round frames can be both stylish and protective.
9. What are some tips for choosing the right frame shape?
When choosing the right frame shape, consider your face shape and personal style. For example:
- Round frames: Best for square or angular faces.
- Rectangular frames: Ideal for round or oval faces.
- Aviator frames: Versatile and suit most face shapes.
- Oversized frames: Great for making a bold fashion statement and providing extensive coverage.
- Wayfarer-style: Classic and versatile, suitable for various face shapes.
By following these tips, you can find the perfect pair of sunglasses that look good, feel comfortable, and provide excellent eye protection
