Sunglasses are an important accessory to have, especially during the spring and summer months when the sun is blazing. They not only help to provide protection to your eyes from harmful UV rays, but from wind, dirt, and other irritating particles in the air. One sunglasses company many enjoy buying from is Ray-Ban. While this company offers high-class and designer options, there are a few downsides to it, such as their prices. Because of this, it’s a good idea to look around for some alternatives to Ray-Ban. You’ll find many different brands that offer the same quality as this one, but at a much lower price. Below is more information about Ray-Ban and some alternatives you can consider.
What is Ray-Ban?
Ray-Ban was created in 1937 as a luxury eyewear company. This brand slowly grew in its popularity which peaked in the 1960s after their sunglasses were featured in many movies. Since then, they have been cited for their creativity and unique designs making them a very respected company. The brand has created many iconic sunglasses designs, like Wayfarers and Aviators, which have been some of the most bought designs in its history.
The Problems With Ray-Ban
There are a few problems that come with Ray-Ban sunglasses. Below are some common issues you’ll need to watch out for with them.
Their Price
While Ray-Bans are high-quality sunglasses, one of the biggest problems about them is their price. These sunglasses can be very expensive and run a few hundred dollars, sometimes even higher if you want a customized pair.
However, the downside about this is that a high price doesn’t indicate high-quality. While Ray-Bans are made to be somewhat durable, they are not made to withstand heavy wear and tear. So, while you might pay a hefty price for a pair, they might not last you for a while.
The Lenses
Sometimes the lenses on Ray-Bans can develop lines and strange spots on them, especially if you use them often. While this isn’t to say this is a very common problem, it has occurred in a few different models that have defective lenses which could make it difficult to wear your Ray-Ban.
The Warranty
Ray-Bans also come with a limited warranty. While you’re covered if they fall and break, if you accidentally scratch the lenses you’re not. Because of this, you have to be extra careful when using them or you’ll end up having to invest even more money into buying a second pair.
Important Buying Factors for Sunglasses
When searching for alternatives to Ray-Ban, there are a few important things to consider before investing in a pair.
The Style
One thing to consider is the number of styles a sunglasses company has. A company should offer numerous designs for you to select from so you can find a pair that matches your preferences perfectly.
The Durability
Another important thing to look for in sunglasses is their durability. You should make sure a company has a good reputation for having strong sunglasses that won’t break or scratch easily as Ray-Bans can. Some things to check for to ensure good durability are the hinges, end pieces, and frame types.
Also, sometimes plastic sunglasses can break very easily, especially if they’re accidentally dropped. Because of this, you’ll want to consider the frame material and the overall construction of the sunglasses.
The Warranty
Sometimes sunglasses can have malfunctions, like incorrect lenses or a crack in the frame. Due to these common problems, it’s important that the sunglasses have at least a one year warranty, preferably more. This way, you’re covered if something goes wrong with them and can get them quickly fixed rather than having to buy an entirely new pair.
How Comfortable They Are
While sunglasses are mainly bought depending on their style and how well they block out light, it’s also a good idea to check how comfortable they are. You should check to see if the nose pads are soft and that the temples and temple tips are comfortable when resting on your ears. Otherwise, it could end up causing irritation and make it a bit difficult to wear your sunglasses.
Alternatives to Ray-Ban
You’ll find many different alternatives to Ray-Ban you can consider. Below are some of the top choices you can try instead.
Kirkland
One Ray-Ban alternative to consider is Kirkland. The sunglasses made by this company are very affordable and come in a variety of designs, like aviators. Kirkland sunglasses also come with a few features built into them, like anti-reflective lenses which can help with any glares. Some also come with special cases you can use to help protect your sunglasses when you’re not using them.
American Optical Eyewear
Source: American Optical Eyewear
Another alternative to Ray-Ban is American Optical Eyewear. This brand started back in the 1800s and is known for offering many different types of sunglasses, like their iconic Pilot models. American Optical Eyewear has three options of sunglasses you can choose from tech, fashion, and regular. The tech glasses will work to protect your eyes from the glare of a computer screen and the fashion sunglasses will work to simply make you look spectacular. However, these don’t always offer the best protection to the sun. So, for those looking for the best sun protection, their regular sunglasses work to keep your eyes free from harmful UV rays. This eyewear company’s lenses also contains a LegendTech feature which works to enhance the colors you see. The brand also sells extra parts and accessories you can buy if necessary.
Glassic
Glassic was founded in India and is known for its stylish sunglasses that have a one year warranty. The sunglasses have a unique vintage look which will give anyone a retro style. They also have many other designs you can choose from, like geometric models which curve around your face to help the glasses better fit on you. You’ll also find round and square lenses you can choose.
Besides the many styles available, Glassic also gives you the choice between mirrored and non-mirrored lenses. The mirrored lenses will look as if they are a mirror thanks to a small reflective covering on them. On the other hand, the non-mirrored lenses will not have this reflective coating which will not make the lenses look very thick or blocked out.
RAEN
RAEN is a sunglasses company located in California and is popular for its handmade and fashionable sunglasses. You’ll find many different collections offered, like seasonal choices and special ones, like their “Essentials” option. RAEN offers sunglasses for both men and women in many unique styles and colors, like honey and sage. You’ll also find some vintage-inspired designs making this one of the best sunglasses companies for those who are looking for a pair of retro glasses. Unlike Ray-Ban, RAEN also sells eyeglasses and accessories you can buy.
MVMT
This company was founded in 2013, so it’s relatively new to the market. However, despite this, MVMT has become one of the top sunglasses companies thanks to the trendy and durable designs available. You’ll find sunglasses for both men and women that come in many different options, like tinted lenses and thick frames. Numerous styles are offered as well, like retro, minimalist, and modern so there are plenty of options available for you to choose from. Polarized lenses are also available which will help to prevent extreme glares when you wear them in bright areas.
Warby Parker
Warby Parker is a little pricey, but it’s still much less expensive compared to Ray-Ban. These sunglasses come with a one-year warranty and feature many different designs, like wide frames and snug fits. In addition to this, you can also order some online and try them at home for free so you can see what choices you like the best. Warby Parker offers numerous styles for both men and women so you’ll find plenty of options available depending on your preferences.
Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters might be known for their clothes, but they also have an impressive selection of sunglasses. This brand offers many distinct styles you can choose from, like cat-eye, round, and octagon lenses. There are also aviators, vintage, and metal designs you can select. However, while there is a large selection, the frames are sometimes made out of plastic which means they might not be the most durable. So, you’ll need to be a bit careful when wearing any stylish sunglasses you buy from this brand.
Cutler and Gross
Cutler and Gross was founded in Italy during the late 1960s, a story similar to Ray-Ban. Its sunglasses are made for both men and women and they offer many stunning designs, like thick frames with tinted lenses. In fact, to help find the right sunglasses for your needs, you can take an online quiz so you can find the perfect pair. Besides this, you can also have a customized pair made, although this is a very pricey option.
Taylor Morris
Founded in London, Taylor Morris is known for designing stylish sunglasses for both men and women with their unisex designs. This company offers a few different collections you can choose from, like “The Falcon” and “The George Arthur.” The frames are very thick and feature many design options, like leopard patterns or solid bold colors. Taylor Morris also ensures that these glasses are durable by including heavy hinges on the sides and weighted tips so the glasses are comfortable when you wear them, but don’t wear out over time. This brand also offers an online face guide you can use so you can find the right sunglasses style for your face shape type.
However, the sunglasses do have the company’s name engraved into the sides. They also are a bit pricey like Ray-Ban, but have better durability.
Sunski
Sunski is an eco-friendly company that works to create sustainable sunglasses. These sunglasses can be used in all different types of weather conditions, including the snow. However, unlike Ray-Ban, it doesn’t have a wide selection of sunglasses to choose from, but it does have a few collections with various designs available.
One perk about this brand is that their sunglasses come with a lifetime warranty so you can easily get them fixed if necessary. They also come at a very affordable price making them ideal for those on a tight budget.
Lisa has a Bachelor’s of Science in Communication Arts. She is an experienced blogger who enjoys researching interesting facts, ideas, products, and other compelling concepts. In addition to writing, she likes photography and Photoshop.