A man wearing Men's Belstaff Gold Sunglasses

How to Understand Lens Types for Men's Sunglasses

Written by: Jared Holland

|

Published on

|

Time to read 5 min

Choosing the Right Type of Sunglasses for your Life

Picking the perfect pair of sunglasses isn’t just about looking good (though, let’s be real, that’s a big part of it). The lens filter you choose matters just as much, and it can totally change how you see the world—literally. Whether you’re chilling by the pool, hitting the open road, or exploring the outdoors, the right filter makes all the difference. Let’s break it down:

💡 Did you know

Not all sunglasses are created equal! The lens filter you choose doesn’t just affect how much sun protection you get—it also impacts how you see colors, reduce glare, and even how comfortable your eyes feel.


Men's Sunglasses with filter/category 1 Lenses


Best For: Cloudy days, evening hangs, or adding a little edge to your outfit.

UV Protection: Light.

Why Choose Them: Filter 1 lenses are all about the vibe. They’re perfect for those overcast days when you don’t need heavy-duty sun protection but still want to rock a killer look. Although they can be great, at Rugged Reign we do not sell Category 1 sunglasses because we only want the best for our shoppers, but they can still look good. 

Pro Tip: Pair them with a leather jacket or a sleek button-up shirt to bring out your inner cool.

Men

Men's Sunglasses with Filter/Category 1: Low Light, High Style

Pros:

  • Perfect for cloudy or overcast days.
  • Great for indoor/outdoor transitions.
  • Adds a stylish edge to your look without being too dark.
  • Lightweight tint makes them ideal for evening or low-light conditions.

Cons:

  • Minimal UV protection—won’t cut it for bright, sunny days.
  • Not suitable for outdoor activities with intense sunlight.
  • More of a fashion statement than practical sun protection.

Men's Sunglasses Classified as Filter or Category 2: The Everyday MVP

Best For: Driving, city adventures, or brunch on a sunny patio.
UV Protection: Medium.
Why Choose Them: Filter 2 lenses are the ultimate all-rounder. They’ve got just enough sun protection for brighter days without feeling too dark. Whether you’re running errands or grabbing coffee with friends, these lenses keep you looking sharp and feeling comfortable.

Pro Tip: Go for wayfarers or aviators for that timeless, masculine vibe.

Pros:

  1. High-Quality Materials : Sunglasses in this price range often feature durable frames (e.g., acetate, stainless steel) and premium lenses with UV protection.
  2. Stylish Designs : Sleek and modern aesthetics from top European designer brands like Gianni Lupo or Calvin Klein.
  3. Enhanced Comfort : Lightweight yet sturdy builds with comfortable nose pads and temple tips.
  4. Brand Prestige : Wearing these sunglasses reflects a sense of style and sophistication, boosting confidence.
  5. Versatility : Ideal for both casual and formal settings, making them a great investment for multiple occasions.
  6. Durability : Better resistance to scratches and wear compared to lower-priced options.

Cons:

  1. Price Barrier : May feel pricey for budget-conscious buyers.
  2. Maintenance Costs : Repairs or replacements for parts (e.g., lenses or frames) might be expensive.
  3. Limited Customization : High-end brands often stick to their signature designs, which might not cater to every taste.
  4. Risk of Loss/Damage : Pricier sunglasses can be stressful to carry around due to fear of misplacing or damaging them.

Men's Sunglasses Classified as Filter or Category 3: All-Out Sun Protection

Best For: Beach days, hiking trails, or any outdoor adventure.
UV Protection: High.
Why Choose Them: If you’re heading into intense sunlight, Filter 3 lenses are the real MVPs. They block out the harsh rays, reduce glare, and keep your eyes comfortable while you soak up the sun. Plus, they add a bold, rugged edge to your look.

Pro Tip: Polarized lenses are a game-changer for cutting glare—perfect for water or snow. Pair them with a casual tee and shorts for that laid-back, confident vibe.

Pros :

  1. Exceptional Craftsmanship : Superior build quality with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing luxury materials like titanium or carbon fiber.
  2. Advanced Lens Technology : Features like polarized lenses, anti-glare coatings, and enhanced UV400 protection for optimal eye safety.
  3. Exclusive Designs : Unique and bold styles that stand out, perfect for making a statement.
  4. Long-Term Investment : Built to last with premium durability, making them worth the higher price tag.
  5. Comfort at Its Best : Ergonomically designed for a perfect fit, reducing pressure on the nose and ears even during extended wear.
  6. Prestige Factor : Owning sunglasses in this price range adds a touch of luxury and exclusivity to your wardrobe.
  7. Versatile Appeal : Seamlessly transitions from casual weekends to high-end events, elevating any outfit.

Cons :

  1. High Price Point : A significant investment that may not be accessible to all customers.
  2. Care Requirements : Requires proper maintenance and storage to preserve their premium quality.
  3. Risk of Loss/Damage : Losing or damaging sunglasses in this price range can be a costly mistake.
  4. Niche Appeal : Some designs may cater more to a specific audience, limiting versatility for broader tastes.

Top Picks From Our Men's Sunglass Collection

Below are some of our hottest looks for 2025 from our Editor's Pick's collection of designer sunglasses for men

Picking the Right Lenses for Your Designer Sunglasses Matters

Choosing the right lens filter depends on your lifestyle. Are you a laid-back lounger, an everyday explorer, or an outdoor adventurer? Whatever your style, Rugged Reign’s sunglass collection has got you covered with lenses that blend function and fashion seamlessly.

Ready to find your perfect pair? Check out our sunglass collection now and step into the sun with confidence.

Rugged Reign offers free shipping on all orders no matter the minimum purchase

Until April 30th, 2025, we are running a buy 1 get one at 50% off promotion on all our sunglasses and an additional 15% for subscribing to our blog

How does shipping at Rugged Reign work?

We ship every order within 48 hours and include free shipping on our entire store.  Expect your order to arrive within 10 days of placing your order. 

Where are your suppliers located?

90% of our products get shipped out in Italy and Germany.  Our suppliers are incredible at what they do, and all our products have an authenticity guarantee and come new with tags.  

How did Rugged Reign get started?

We noticed a gap in the market for a store dedicated solely to men—one that not only focuses on style but also uplifts mental health and fosters community. Apparel is our tool because putting effort into your style is one of the easiest ways to boost confidence. After all, the saying 'look good, feel good' couldn’t be more true!  We donate 1% of all our revenue to organizations that support mental health organizations for men.  

Jared Holland

Jared Holland

At Rugged Reign, we believe style is more than what you wear—it’s how you feel. Founded with a mission to empower men to embrace their confidence unapologetically, we bring together over 100 premium European designer brands to redefine men’s fashion. From everyday essentials to bold statement pieces, our collection is crafted for the modern man who values quality, versatility, and self-expression.