Corey Hart may have worn his sunglasses at night, but the rest of us tend to wear them in the daylight hours when the sun is out and our peepers need protection. While a great pair of aviator or cat’s eye shades may be a fashion statement, sunglasses are more than just the perfect summer accessory. According to Health Canada, properly chosen sunglasses protect your eyes against damage from UV rays, bright light, and blue light.
In honour of summer (which we hope, despite the random rainstorms across Canada, is almost here), we tested some stylish shades to protect the family’s eyes, while also looking fabulous.
For the mamas (and dadas), we checked out the AYA line of sunglasses from Claudia Alan. These glasses are designed by First Nations artist Corrine Hunt, and feature artwork that incorporates contemporary, nature-inspired designs etched on the side arms of the frames. We tested the Arrow and the Althea styles, and loved the comfort and fit of the glasses. The styles in the women’s line range from conservative to trendy and everywhere in-between, and reading glasses are also available. Sadly, the men have only one model to choose from, but it’s a fantastic one! Partial proceeds from the sale of all AYA eye wear and accessory items are donated to the One X One First Nations Breakfast Program.
For our kiddos, they sported the new line of Foster Grant shades from London Drugs. Every pair has shatter resistant lenses with 100% UVA & UVB protection, and we liked the sporty and cheeky styles, with flames, hot pink teardrops, and tiny skulls and crossbones. Our little ones loved wearing the sunglasses – very comfy on their little faces! The sunglasses for toddlers included a neoprene strap to prevent exploring hands from grabbing the shades and hurling them from the stroller. Not that our perfect children would ever do that.
Now if only the sun would come out…
Yo, mama! Want to know more about sun and eye safety?