It's important to look for sunglasses that are not only cool but that are also going to protect your eyes from the sun's rays. Ultraviolet exposure is at its peak when we are at high altitudes, snow-covered landscapes, bright sandy beaches, or near reflective bodies of water.For prolonged outdoor activities, it is recommended to wear a good quality sun glass to prevent eyes from long term problems like cataract and maculopathy.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for shades:

• All sunglasses are not the same. Effective sunglasses should block both UVA and UVB radiation. The sunglasses must be measured to block 99% to 100% of UVA or UV400 (400 nm is the wavelength of UVA radiation). These rays are the ultraviolet parts of sunlight that can harm your eyes. Ask the optical salesman to give specification of lens on their UV blocking property.
• Remember that wearing sunglasses that don't block out these rays can be worse than not wearing any at all.
• Look for sunglasses that are close fitting as they help stop light getting round the edges - wraparound shades and large lenses are good too.
• Plastic lenses are often better than glass ones as they are lighter and are harder to break. They have to be maintained well as they scratch more easily then glass
• Don't be fooled by the price - more expensive shades might be more fashionable but may not give more protection.
• Brown, amber and grey lenses usually give better protection than other colours.
• Dark coloured sunglasses don't necessarily protect you better. It's a special coating on the lens that makes them safe, not their darkness.
• Ordinary sunglasses make the situation WORSE! The dark lenses cause the pupils to dilate, allowing more of the dangerous UVA radiation to damage the lens and the retina