As the Aussie sun cranks up to peak UV, sunglasses aren’t just a style flex. They’re a must-have for eye health. But after all the noise around sunscreen claims this year, it’s fair to ask: can you trust your sunglasses to do what the label promises?
CHOICE decided to find out.
They independently tested 19 pairs of sunglasses sold in Australia, from designer brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley to budget buys from Kmart and Big W. Each pair was assessed against the Australian/New Zealand standard to see how well it filtered harmful UVA and UVB rays.
Unlike the sunscreen drama earlier in 2025, in which many products failed to meet their SPF claims, almost all sunglasses tested met their advertised UV protection.
For most pairs, the label matched the lenses' performance in the lab.
But there’s a catch.
A small number of sunglasses didn’t provide adequate UV protection, making them potentially more harmful than wearing no sunglasses at all.
UV radiation doesn’t just damage skin. It also affects the eye’s most sensitive structures.
“Repeated UV exposure is linked to cataracts, pterygiums (tissue growth on the eye), corneal clouding and even eyelid skin cancers. These conditions often develop slowly, particularly with high cumulative sun exposure,” said Cassandra Haines, optometrist and South Australian State Lead at Optometry Australia.
“Kids’ eyes are even more vulnerable because their lenses are more transparent and allow shorter wavelength UV light through. Early-life UV exposure adds up quickly, which is why ideally everyone, including children, should wear sunglasses and a hat outdoors all year round.”
She also warned that poorly protected sunglasses can backfire.
“When sunglasses don’t have proper UV protection, the dark tint can cause the pupil to widen, letting in even more harmful rays without the essential UV barrier Australian sunglasses are designed to provide.”
What to look for when buying sunglasses
Even though most sunglasses tested performed well, a few quick checks can make a big difference:
- Check the standard
Look for the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1067 on the tag or product description. This confirms the sunglasses meet local UV protection requirements.
- Lens category matters
Category 2 or 3 lenses are ideal for everyday use. Category 4 offers very high protection but isn’t suitable for driving.
- Look for UV400 or 100% UV protection
These claims indicate that the lenses block nearly all harmful UV rays.
- Fit and coverage count
Wraparound styles or frames that sit close to the face reduce UV sneaking in from the sides.
- Polarised doesn’t always mean protected
Polarised lenses reduce glare, which is great for driving or water activities, but polarisation alone doesn’t guarantee UV protection. Always check the UV rating.
“We’re fortunate in Australia that sunglasses sold through physical stores or reputable online retailers should meet the Australian/New Zealand Standard,” Cassandra said.
“However, people should be cautious when buying from less reliable overseas retailers and avoid knock-off or ‘dupe’ sunglasses. This CHOICE report confirms those products don’t always meet the protections we need for Australia’s harsh sunlight.”
Don’t forget the bigger sun-smart picture
Sunglasses are just one part of protecting your eyes from UV damage.
The Cancer Council’s Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide message still applies: slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on your sunnies.
It’s a simple combo that protects both your skin and your eyes.
Regular eye exams with a trusted optometrist also matter. They can check for early signs of UV-related damage, such as pterygium or early cataracts, and provide personalised advice on eye protection.
Most sunglasses sold in Australia do what they claim, but a few bad apples and fashion shades without proper UV ratings still slip through.
Check the label, wear your sunnies and back them up with a hat and sunscreen. Your eyes will thank you.
For more information or to download Sun Smart resources, visit https://www.cancer.org.au/
If you are experiencing changes to your vision or are concerned about your eyesight, you can use our Find an Optometrist search tool to schedule an appointment with your local optometrist today.
