Living in sunny New Mexico, a good pair of shades is a mandatory everyday accessory. Earlier this year, I wrote about six pairs I wear regularly. I’d like to add one more to that list: the .
When it comes to daily driving sunglasses, it’s all about appearance, and the Sundowners look sharp. The classic Wayfarer styling, which Bob Dylan made famous in the ’60s, is cool without screaming ski bum. Of course, on the rare occasions when I do ski in them—or run, or fish, or, really, do anything outdoors—they can handle it. Credit the virtually indestructible Grilamid frames (the same material used to make high-end ski boots) and polycarbonate lenses, which cut glare exceptionally well and offer 100 percent UV protection. The glasses don’t have rubber on the temples and nose bridge like many running- and biking-specific shades, but for shorter jaunts, I’ve never had a problem with them staying put.
I dig the classic black frames, but if you want to add a little more pop, the Sundowners also come in multiple shades of translucent blue and clear with brightly colored lenses.
And my favorite part? At just $61, they cost half as much as Ray-Bans.