KiGO's Blog

Children’s Sunglasses and Why Kids Need Sunglasses

June 11, 2025

Whether your child is building sandcastles on the beach, riding their bike through the neighborhood, or just enjoying a sunny stroll, their eyes need serious protection — and not just from the brightness. At KiGO California, we know that children’s polarized sunglasses with UV400 protection for children aren’t a fashion luxury — they’re a health essential.

👶 Why Are Sunglasses So Important for Children?

Did you know children spend significantly more time outdoors than adults? Some experts estimate that nearly 50% of lifetime UV exposure happens before age 18. Without protection, long-term exposure to UV rays can contribute to eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration later in life.

And it’s not just UV rays. Modern research shows that high-energy visible (HEV) blue light — the kind you get from the sun — may also play a role in damaging retinal cells over time. Because infant and toddler eyes are still developing, they’re even more vulnerable. That’s why we recommend introducing baby sunglasses and toddler sunglasses as early as possible — starting from age 0–2 and continuing as they grow into the 3–5 age range.

sunglasses for babies
Sunglasses for kids 0-3 years old

Not all sunglasses are created equal. Here's what to look for when shopping for sunglasses kids will actually benefit from:

✅ 1. UV400 Protection

Ensure the lenses block 100% UVA and UVB rays. This is the gold standard in UV400 protection for children, and it’s non-negotiable.

✅ 2. Polarized Lenses

Choose children’s polarized sunglasses to cut down on glare from roads, water, snow, or sand — making outdoor play safer and more comfortable for your child’s eyes.

✅ 3. Impact-Resistant Materials

Opt for polycarbonate lenses, which are ultra-durable and shatter-resistant — ideal for rough-and-tumble toddlers and active school-aged kids.

✅ 4. Comfortable, Kid-Safe Frames

At KiGO California, our infant sunglasses and kids sunglasses are made from flexible, BPA-free materials designed for tiny faces — soft around the ears, secure on the nose, and tough enough for outdoor adventures.

🎨 Styles Kids (and Parents) Love

Today’s best kids sunglasses combine protection with personality. From bold colors to mini versions of adult styles, here are some popular picks:

  • Classic shapes: round, oval, cat-eye, geometric

  • Cool colors: black, tortoise, blue, green

  • Sporty silhouettes: wrap-around styles for maximum coverage

  • Materials: durable plastic or metal frames, designed for small facial dimensions

Kids love to mimic their parents, so having their own stylish shades makes them more likely to wear them — especially when they look just like mom or dad!

🧳 Don’t Forget the Accessories

Every pair of KiGO California kids sunglasses comes with care and convenience in mind:

  • A hard-shell protective case

  • A cleaning cloth and lens-safe solution

  • Sunglass retainers to keep shades from getting lost on the playground

  • Adjustable straps for baby and toddler sunglasses

These extras help kids take ownership of their glasses — and keep them protected when not in use.

kids prescription sunglasses
0-2
Children's polarized sunglasses for 3-6 age
Baby sunglasses for 0-3 age

🌍 UV Dangers Are Everywhere — Even on Cloudy Days

Whether you’re on a beach vacation, playing in the snow, or taking a hike at higher altitudes, the sun’s rays are still reaching your child’s eyes — even when it’s overcast. That’s why every child should wear kids sunglasses whenever they’re outdoors.

From 0-2 infant sunglasses to 3–5 toddler styles, KiGO California makes it easy to protect your little one’s vision with durable, comfortable, and stylish eyewear.

👓 Final Tips for Choosing the Right Pair

  • Get a professional fit — kids’ heads are smaller and require special frame sizes.

  • Make sure the glasses fit snugly, but not too tight.

  • Let your child choose from a few kid-friendly options to encourage wear.

Protect their eyes today. Give them healthy vision for life.

Explore our full collection of baby sunglasses, toddler sunglasses, and best kids sunglasses at KiGO California — because when it comes to your child’s eyes, only the best will do.