Best sunglasses for men: a complete guide
2 October 2026
At a glance: The best sunglasses for men combine 100% UV protection, a complementary frame shape and a fit you'll actually reach for every day. Rectangular and aviator styles are the most versatile; square and browline frames suit a sharper, smarter wardrobe. This guide covers the main styles, the buying tips that matter and where to find great men's sunglasses online.
Who this is for: Anyone buying sunglasses (prescription or not) who wants a shape that suits their face and lenses that protect their eyes.
A good pair of shades does more than complete an outfit. It blocks UV rays, cuts glare on bright days and, if you choose a durable frame, lasts for years. Below are five of the most popular men's frame shapes, plus buying tips worth checking before you order.
Sunglasses for men buying tips: what to check before you buy
Before you pick a style, a few things narrow the shortlist fast:
- Face shape — angular frames (square, rectangular) suit rounder faces; softer shapes (round, aviator) suit sharper features.
- UV protection — look for the UV400 mark, which confirms 100% UVA and UVB protection.
- Lens type — dark sun tints work well for everyday wear, while polarised lenses cut glare from wet roads and water, useful for driving or time near the coast.
- Frame material — acetate for bold colour and pattern, metal, titanium or stainless steel for a lighter, more durable, low-profile feel.
- Prescription needs — every style below is available as prescription sunglasses, so you don't have to trade sharp vision for the look you want.
- How you'll actually wear them — daily commute, driving, sport or occasional wear all point to different frame styles.
With that in mind, here's what makes great men's sunglasses in each of the main shapes.
Rectangular sunglasses: a versatile everyday choice
Rectangular sunglasses are one of the most popular shapes for men. Sharp lines and clean edges give a confident look that works with jeans as easily as a suit.
Rimless frames like the Finelight Remy keep things light and barely there, while sportier frames like the Oakley® Hex Jector add grip and coverage for an active day.
Best for:
- Oval and round face shapes
- Everyday wear
- An active weekend away
Popular styles:
Round sunglasses: retro style with personality
Round sunglasses make an instant statement and soften angular features, which is why they suit square faces so well. Choose from fine gold or silver metal, bold tortoiseshell acetate or minimal transparent frames.
The Collection Cody gives a classic metal round, while the Tom Ford FT5557-B offers a clear acetate with clean lines for a more refined take on the shape.
Best for:
- Angular and square face shapes
- Easygoing, unisex styling
- Festivals and relaxed, off-duty looks
Popular styles:
Square sunglasses: confident and contemporary
Square frames suit a sharper, more tailored wardrobe. They read as a touch bolder than rectangular sunglasses and move easily between work and the weekend.
You'll find them in high-end acetate or metal — oversized D-frames for a current look, slimmer ones for something more low-key. The Scout Costello brings a classic tortoiseshell finish, while the HART Jagger adds a bolder blue acetate.
Best for:
- Round and oval face shapes
- Office, travel and everyday wear
- A bolder alternative to rectangular frames
Popular styles:
Aviator sunglasses: timeless and iconic
First designed for pilots, the aviator remains one of the most enduring shapes in men's sunglasses. From traditional teardrop lenses to modern squared-off versions, they suit a wide range of face shapes. The Collection Colby keeps the classic double-bridge metal frame, while the London Retro Gants reworks it in bold acetate.
Best for:
- Most face shapes
- Driving and summer days
- A wardrobe staple you'll wear for years
Popular styles:
Browline sunglasses: smart with a retro edge
The browline frame, with acetate on top and slim metal below, sits between vintage and modern. That makes it a strong choice when one pair needs to move from the office to dinner.
Common finishes are tortoiseshell with gold or black with silver trim. Ray-Ban® made the shape famous with the Clubmaster. Classic browlines like it suit round and oval faces and remains a reliable choice for those who want great men's sunglasses that suit every occasion.
Best for:
- Oval and round face shapes
- Suits, blazers and smart-casual looks
- An alternative to classic Wayfarer or aviator styles
Popular styles:
| Frame shape | Best face shape | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Rectangular | Oval, round | Everyday wear, active wear |
| Round | Angular, square | Festivals, off-duty |
| Square | Round, oval | Office, travel |
| Aviator | Most face shapes | Driving, summer |
| Browline | Oval, round | Smart-casual |
Popular sunglasses brands for men
Ray-Ban® is best known for the Wayfarer, Aviator and Clubmaster. Oakley® specialises in sporty wraparound frames built for active lifestyles.
Beyond those two, popular brands include: Persol®, Hugo Boss, Polo Ralph Lauren, Gucci and London Retro. Glasses Direct has a pair to suit most tastes and budgets.
How to find the best sunglasses for men online
On our men's sunglasses page, you can filter by shape, frame colour and brand in a few clicks. Keep your face shape and daily routine in mind as you go.
Not sure a shape suits you? The free Home Trial sends frames to your door to try before you buy, so you can see how they look before you order and find the perfect pair. Frames start from £9 and you can add dark tints for £15. Delivery is free over £95.
FAQs: best men's sunglasses
What are the best sunglasses for men?
The best sunglasses for men depend on face shape and how they'll be used. Rectangular and aviator styles are the most versatile for daily wear and driving, while square and browline frames suit smarter occasions.
What's the difference between aviator and Wayfarer sunglasses?
Classic aviators have a teardrop-shaped frame originally designed for pilots, while Wayfarers have a trapezoidal acetate frame. Aviators tend to suit more face shapes; Wayfarers give a bolder, more angular look.
Do polarised lenses matter for men's sunglasses?
Yes, if you drive regularly or spend time near water. Polarised lenses cut reflected glare, which reduces eye strain in bright conditions.
How do I choose sunglasses for my face shape?
As a general rule, angular frames (square, rectangular) suit rounder faces and softer, rounder frames suit more angular features.
Can I get men's sunglasses with a prescription?
All of the styles above are available as prescription sunglasses, including rectangular, round, square, aviator and browline frames. Frames start from £9, and you can add dark sun tints from £15.
How much should I spend on sunglasses for men?
UV protection is standard across price points, so budget mainly affects lens technology (polarised, photochromic) and frame material rather than eye safety. At Glasses Direct, sunglasses start from £9 and dark sun tints are £15.
Which sunglasses lens colour is best for everyday wear?
Grey lenses preserve true colour and suit most everyday use; brown or amber lenses boost contrast and work well in changing light.
Ready to find your frames? Browse the full men's sunglasses collection at Glasses Direct.
