Eyeglasses that enhance the normal light-filtering capabilities of the eye and protect against the sun's damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays. Good sunglasses should be judged by their ability to reduce glare, filter out 99 percent to 100 percent of UV rays, provide visual protection, be comfortable and not distort colors. See Free Eye Tests.
Originally a form of eye protection, today sunglasses are primarily used as a fashion accessory. Approximately 300 million pairs of sunglasses are sold in American each year. There are hundreds of manufacturers, importers and distributors in America. While all sunglasses filter UV to some degree, not all sunglasses offer the same level of UV protection. Unfortunately, in practice, America has no effective labeling standards for sunglasses to inform consumers about the level of UV protection they are purchasing.
spectacles that are darkened or polarized to protect the eyes from the glare of the sun; "he was wearing a pair of mirrored shades"
these are abundant everywhere and Phuket is a good place to stock up with such variety. Optometrists such as Top Chareon, which has outlets all over the island, carry the real deal – Gucci, Ray Ban, Oakley and more – but at Western prices. Sometimes you’ll find a good sale though, or you can always ask for a discount especially when buying multiple pairs. Cheap knockoffs are for sale at stalls everywhere for around 100 baht and up but beware that they may be more of a danger than a help when you’re spending lots of time in the sun.
Sunglasses provide protection from harmful light rays; however, they are not impact resistant like a safety glass.
Sunglasses are a visual aid, variously termed spectacles or glasses, which feature lenses that are coloured or darkened to screen out strong light from the eyes.