24.4.09

2009 Sunglasses - 7 Reviews


We spent the first half of 2009 trying out sunglasses.

We reviewed seven pairs of popular sunglasses. Some classic, some fleeting trends. Below are our feelings.
1. Ray Ban Wayfarer - tortoise shell
Brad - I found the Wayfarers had clear vision and had a nice fit. The lenses weren't too dark yet were perfect for sunny days. The style of the glasses isn't for everyone.
Style 7/10 Lenses 9/10
Stacy - I had knock offs of these in '86 so I was a little apprehensive to try them. The frames felt uncomfortable at first as the arms are thicker than I'm use to. However, having given up on my previous shades, I tried the Wayfarers for awhile. The lenses were perfect for both overcast and clear days. I did feel like a bit of a hipster in them but was so happy with my vision I didn't care. My favorite.
Style 8/10 Lenses 9/10

2. Dita
Brad - I felt these were too machismo for me. They were uncomfortable in the fit as the arms are thick. The lenses were too light for my preference.
Style 6/10 Lenses 5/10
Stacy - I was hoping these sunglasses would knock me out as I like the shape. They were uncomfortable do to the thick arms. I also felt the nose area was tight. The lenses were hardly tinted and definitely not dark enough for me.
Style 7/10 Lenses 6/10

3. Ray Ban Classic Aviator
Brad - The classic aviators had a great fit and are flattering on most people. They're light so you don't feel them on. The lenses were clear but reflected back in my eyes in the sunlight. Style 9/10 Lenses 7/10
Stacy - I've always liked the look of the aviator but had never forked out the money to buy a pair of Ray Bans. Well, the money has been spent. What a disappointment. I wear sunglasses year round and these were only somewhat wearable on overcast days. They reflected back into my eyes so bad I had to take them off or risk getting in a car accident. They didn't look good on me as I have an angular face but they did look good on Brad.
Style 9/10 Lenses 4/10

4. Tom Ford
Brad - These shades are mysterious. They were comfortable both on the ears and the nose. I felt like a sophisticated spy in these which made me feel pretty cool. The lenses were too dark for overcast days but fine for clear days. My favorite.
Style 9/10 Lenses 8/10
Stacy - I felt pretty cool in these too, maybe a little too cool. They were light and comfortable on but, like the Vuarnets, I found my eyelids got sweaty. Good for sitting on the patio in Southern France if that's your plat du jour.
Style 8/10 Lenses 7/10


5. Vintage Vuarnet
Brad - These had nice sharp vision with no glare. Pretty much an 80s ski hill look with a little rock n' roll thrown in. The Vuarnets were great for sunny days as they're polarized.
Style 8/10 Lenses 9/10
Stacy - I agree with Brad pretty. The vision was excellent, as it should be being that they're ski glasses. The lenses had a pinkish tint so everything always looked sunny. They're very light but I found my eyelids got sweaty. I felt a little uncomfortable with the '80s look but the sunny clear lenses made up for it.
Style 7/10 Lenses 9/10
6. Paul Smith
Brad - These glasses are good for unique people like. I found them heavy on the style end but weak on the lenses. What they're lacking in vision they made up for on looks. Wear them walking around the city but not to the beach.
Style 8/10 Lenses 6/10
Stacy - I liked these but had to be in the right mood. They remind me of the Chanel 5159H.
The fit was a little uncomfortable on the ears but they were light weight. The lenses were clear and crisp but, like the Tom Ford's, more suited for the sidewalk cafe than the bright sun. A fun pair of shades for those days you want to express your individuality.
Style 9/10 Lenses 7/10

7. Serengeti Carini Polarized
Brad - The lenses were great on these but the looks are horrible. They're light in weight and solid in structure. These could be worn on both overcast and clear days.
Style 7/10 Lenses 10/10
Stacy - The lenses weren't dark enough for me. I'd wear them driving on overcast days but that's about it. I agree with Brad they aren't that sexy. I found them uncomfortable as well. The metal arms dug into my ears and were just a bad fit overall.

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