7 Best baby sunglasses from newborn to toddler: Tried and tested
<h2 class=”body-h2″>Best baby sunglasses for 2025: The <em>Women’s Health</em> verdict</h2><p class=”body-text”>The best baby sunglasses make a stylish addition to your baby’s wardrobe while offering excellent protection against UVA and UVB rays. From baby sunglasses with straps to durable, flexible designs, here are the baby sunglasses that stood out during testing. </p><ul><li><strong>Top pick:</strong> What’s not to love about the <a href=” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Maesy Baby Noah Sunglasses</a>? These durable, flexible sunglasses have an adjustable, removable strap that ensures a secure and comfortable fit for your baby or toddler. I love their stylish design and convenient carry case, while the UV4 polarised lenses provide maximum protection and peace of mind for parents.</li></ul><ul><li><strong>Runner-up:</strong> You pay a little more for the benefit, but the <a href=” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Izipizi Baby Sunglasses</a> were the most flexible baby sunglasses I tested, able to withstand enthusiastic manhandling by your baby or toddler without showing signs of damage. Offering excellent longevity, these stylish sunglasses feature a soft, stretchy strap that fits babies from nine months to three years old.</li></ul><ul><li><strong>I also loved:</strong> The stylish <a href=” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Babiators Original Navigator Sunglasses</a>. Although they don’t have a strap, their grown-up design offers instant appeal. Babiators offer strong UV protection and shatterproof lenses housed in a virtually indestructible frame — and they’re so confident you can’t break them, they’ll replace them if you do.</li></ul>” data-next-head/>
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How I tested the best baby sunglasses
As a mum of two and parenting content writer, I have over ten years of experience testing and reviewing products for babies and children — from the best baby ear defenders to the best baby swings.
To determine the best baby sunglasses for newborns to toddlers, I physically tested each product with children aged 13 weeks to two years old, observing their overall comfort levels while wearing them on bright, sunny days.
I considered the overall design of each pair of sunglasses, including their durability, flexibility and (where applicable) the quality of the strap or band. I also reviewed the baby sunglasses’ UV protection rating, looking for dark lenses that block out UVA and UVB rays.
As every baby is different, I researched verified consumer feedback on baby sunglasses, seeking more tried-and-tested perspectives from parents.
Finally, for valuable expert insights, I spoke with Denise Voon, Clinical Advisor at The College of Optometrists, who shared the importance of baby sunglasses and key features to consider when making your choice.
The 7 best baby sunglasses to shop now
Best overall baby sunglasses
Maesy Noah Baby Sunglasses
Pros
- Strap is easy to remove when no longer required
- Flexible arms that can withstand enthusiastic handling
- High-quality drawstring bag for storage
Cons
- They don’t wrap around the face for side coverage
The Maesy Noah baby sunglasses feature a classic and stylish gender-neutral design. I was also impressed with their durability — the flexible arms and strong hinges could withstand even the most enthusiastic stretching and pulling from my 12-month-old tester.
With an adjustable elastic strap that can be lengthened or removed completely when no longer needed, the sunglasses are available in two sizes to meet your baby’s needs as they grow. With the strap in place, my tester was content and comfortable, noticeably reacting to the shade provided on bright spring days. Most importantly, the glasses remained in place for extended periods, providing peace of mind for parents.
While the design doesn’t wrap around the face, the polarised lenses provide UV400 protection (the strongest level), reducing glare and the impact of strong sun reflections around water. Unlike some ‘kid’ sunglasses, I love how the temples are slightly curved, fitting securely around my tester’s small ears.
The high-quality drawstring pouch was a welcome addition, protecting the lenses from scratches or scuffs when taken outside the home.
Key specifications
| Type | Baby/toddler sunglasses |
|---|---|
| Material & design | Frame of flexible, bendable TPE material |
| Dimensions/weight | Arm length 10.4cm
Bridge width 1.6cm Strap 36cm-48cm 13g |
| Key features & performance | Lightweight design
Adjustable elastic strap UV400 protection Polarised lens Sturdy hinge and curved temples with space for elastic Protective storage pouch included |
| Suitable for | Babies (size 0-2 years) and toddlers (size 1-3 years) |
Best budget baby sunglasses
Baby Banz Retro Sunglasses
If you’re seeking a more affordable option without sacrificing quality, the Baby Banz Retro sunglasses make a budget-friendly alternative. Available in four striking colour choices, they come with a convenient carry case to protect them on your travels.
With a wrap-around design and dark, shatterproof lenses, these sunglasses provide 100% UVA and UVB protection, keeping your baby safe and comfortable on bright, sunny days.
While the soft strap isn’t removable, the Velcro hook and loop were easy to adjust to the desired size. I love how it’s also thicker at the back, holding the glasses securely in place while preventing any irritation on your baby’s head. Despite the rubber nose and brow cushioning, however, I did notice some slight marks on my tester’s skin after use.
Baby Banz claims these sunglasses are suitable from birth to two years. Although they make great newborn sunglasses, they may be small for some toddlers, based on the fit with my 12-month-old tester. As every child is different, I recommend measuring your baby’s head circumference and selecting the larger size if necessary.
Key specifications
| Type | Baby/toddler sunglasses with strap |
|---|---|
| Material & design | Neoprene elastic strap
Durable polycarbonate ophthalmic quality lenses |
| Dimensions/weight | Baby size band fits between 43cm and 52cm
10cm x 1cm x 8 cm 28.35g |
| Key features & performance | Four colour choices
Rubber nose and brow piece for comfort Hook and loop closure on adjustable strap for secure fit Comes with a soft lens cleaner/carry pouch Category 3 (equivalent to UV400) shatterproof lenses One-year replacement guarantee for breakage 100% UVA and UVB protection |
| Suitable for | From birth to two years (also available in 3-5 years) |
Best baby sunglasses with strap
Izipizi Baby Sunglasses
With an adjustable design that adapts to your child’s needs as they grow, the Izipizi Baby Sunglasses can be used standalone or with the included strap for support — helpful if your baby is prone to pulling them off. While the strap is a little fiddly to attach to the frame, I love that there are no noticeable holes or clips once removed.
While these baby sunglasses offer a stylish shape, polarised lenses and high-quality sun protection, their most significant plus point is their flexibility. The lightly curved arms bend and flex for a secure and comfortable fit. While there’s no extra cushioning, the unique bridge shape also reduces pressure across the nose, with no marks or irritation during testing.
With no adjustment required, the super stretchy double elastic strap is recommended for babies from nine months to three years. During testing, I was confident that the sunglasses would fit my 12-month-old tester for several years to come, which might justify their premium price tag.
Of all the baby sunglasses I tested, the Izipizi Baby Sunglasses came with the highest quality carry case. In addition to a sturdy gift box, the thick felt slip-in pouch kept the lenses free from scratches and scuffs, allowing me to throw them in a changing bag with confidence.
Key specifications
| Type | Baby/toddler sunglasses with strap |
|---|---|
| Material & design | BPA-free and hypoallergenic |
| Dimensions/weight | Arm length 10.3cm
Glasses width 10.1cm Lens height 3.6cm Head circumference 34cm-41 cm 21g |
| Key features & performance | Head circumference 40cm-47cm
Polarised lenses UV3 protection (UV400) Straight temples allow them to grow with your little one Ultra supple and adjustable silicone strap Storage pouch included Wide range of colours |
| Suitable for | Babies and toddlers from nine months to three years |
Best baby sunglasses for durability
Babiators Original Navigator Sunglasses
Pros
- Stylish ‘grown-up’ sunglasses
- Durable design is almost impossible to break, but Babiators will replace them if you do
- Petite size is perfect for small faces
Cons
- Straps sold separately
There’s something instantly appealing about the Babiators Original Navigator Sunglasses — with a ‘grown-up’ design perfectly sized for your ‘mini-me’.
I was super keen to put the ‘virtually indestructible’ guarantee to the test, and, thankfully, these durable sunglasses lived up to their promise. The shatter-resistant lenses and flexible rubber frames withstood being dropped, twisted and pulled during testing, without any visible signs of damage. It meant I could let my 12-month-old tester attempt to put these on independently, without the sharp intake of breath that usually occurs when he pulls spectacle arms wide apart.
My only minor quibble was the microfibre case, which, although a helpful addition, was slightly thinner than I expected for the price.
My 12-month-old tester looked great in these baby aviators, but, of course, it’s not just about style — they also offer excellent UV protection. The polarised lenses also help reduce glare from water reflections, making them a fantastic addition for holidays or trips to the seaside.
Key specifications
| Type | Baby sunglasses |
|---|---|
| Material & design | BPA-free flexible rubber frames
Polycarbonate lenses |
| Dimensions/weight | W11.2cm x H5cm x L11.6cm
Bridge measurement: 1.7cm Lens height 3.9cm 25g |
| Key features & performance | Virtually indestructible
Impact and shatter-resistant lenses 100% UVA and UVB protection (UV400) Guarantee: If they break, Babiators will replace them Polarised lenses to help reduce harsh glare Free drawstring bag included |
| Suitable for | Babies from 0-2 years |
Most stylish baby sunglasses
Monsoon Baby Gingham Flower Sunglasses
These adorable gingham baby sunglasses took me right back to my own childhood. Their flower-shaped frame makes a charming addition to your baby’s summer wardrobe and adds instant retro vibes to your family holiday by the seaside.
While they’re a little less flexible than the other glasses I tested, they offer maximum UV protection, with large dark lenses that provided good coverage on my 12-month-old tester’s face.
Despite their affordable price tag, I loved that they still come with a drawstring carry pouch to protect them from sand and dirt and keep them looking their best.
There is no age recommendation for these glasses; however, based on my testing and the absence of a strap, I’d recommend them for babies and toddlers around one to two years old.
Key specifications
| Type | Baby sunglasses |
|---|---|
| Material & design | Plastic frames
Polycarbonate lenses |
| Dimensions/weight | Temple measurement: 10.3cm
Bridge measurement: 1.2cm 20g |
| Key features & performance | Maximum UVA and UVB protection
Large dark lenses Gingham flower-shaped frame Drawstring carry pouch included |
| Suitable for | Unspecified, but roughly 1-2 years |
Best toddler sunglasses
Little Dutch Flower Sunglasses
Recommended for toddlers aged two and above, these adorable floral sunglasses from Little Dutch are sure to be a big hit with little ones. With a muted Scandi colour scheme, they offer excellent UV400 protection for your toddler’s eyesight without being too brightly coloured or babyish.
These sunglasses come without a strap, giving your toddler the independence to put them on without assistance — ideal if they’re learning to dress themselves.
While I was a little disappointed that no carry bag was included for the price, these durable frames proved to be strong and robust, showing no signs of wear and tear despite being handled by my two-year-old tester.
Key specifications
| Type | Toddler sunglasses |
|---|---|
| Material & design | Durable plastic
Polycarbonate lenses |
| Dimensions/weight | 16cm x 8cm
Bridge measurement 1.3cm Weight 18g |
| Key features & performance | Floral-shaped frames
UV400 sun protection |
| Suitable for | Toddlers aged two years+ |
Best secure fit baby sunglasses
JoJo Maman Bebe Navy Blue Kids’ Flexible Sunglasses with Straps
If you’ve tried baby sunglasses before, only for your little one to pull them off seconds later, these could be the ideal solution.
The JoJo Flexible Sunglasses have an elastic strap that can be unclipped as your baby grows, and I love how easily the sizing can be adjusted. They offer a snug and secure fit that stays firmly in place, regardless of how active your toddler may be.
While the UV400 lenses and wrap-around design provide good coverage from the sun’s glare, they have a slight ‘goggle-like’ appearance that I didn’t find as aesthetically pleasing as some of the other sunglasses I tested. However, while some children may find the snug fit a little restrictive, my 12-month-old tester was a big fan of these glasses, and there were no marks or indents when removed.
Key specifications
| Type | Baby sunglasses with strap |
|---|---|
| Material & design | 100% thermoplastic elastomer |
| Dimensions/weight | Arm measurement: 11cm
Bridge measurement: 1cm Weight: 25g |
| Key features & performance | Adjustable, detachable strap
Filter Category 3 equivalent to UV400 — the maximum protection for delicate eyes Wrap-around coverage |
| Suitable for | Babies 1-2 years (also available in Kids 3-5 years) |
Why are sunglasses important for babies and toddlers?
If you’re heading on your baby’s first holiday, it’s not just the swim nappies and baby carrier that you’ll need to pop on your packing list. Just as it’s essential to use sun cream to protect your baby or toddler’s skin, your baby or toddler needs to wear sunglasses to protect their eyes.
Optometrist Denise Voon explains, ‘Babies and toddlers’ eyes generally have larger pupils and clearer lenses, which allow more UV rays to reach the retina — the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eyes.
‘Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun can increase the risk of eye conditions later in life, such as cataracts and macular degeneration.’
Sunglasses aren’t just for clear, sunny days either. Voon goes on to add, ‘On cloudy days, there can still be a lot of UV radiation around, and sunglasses can protect young eyes on those days too.’
How do I get my baby to keep sunglasses on?
Getting a baby or toddler to wear sunglasses — and keep them on — can be tricky. These valuable tips can help:
- Start early: The sooner your baby wears sunglasses, the less likely they’ll resist them. Voon explains, ‘Introducing sunglasses early and making them part of your child’s “outdoor routine” can help, just like wearing a sunhat or applying sun cream.’
- Lead by example: Make sure you’re wearing sunglasses too. ‘Children love to copy their parents, so if your child sees you wearing sunglasses regularly, it will encourage them to do the same,’ Voon shares.
- Choose fun, comfortable styles: In addition to strong UV protection, opt for comfortable designs that your child is willing to wear. Voon adds, ‘Your child is also more likely to wear sunglasses if they have helped choose them, so involving them in the decision can be helpful.’
- Use distraction: After you put on the sunglasses, immediately engage your baby or toddler with a toy or other distraction to divert their attention.Voon explains that consistency is key. ‘Encouraging your child to wear them regularly will help them get used to and enjoy wearing their sunglasses.’
What level of sun protection should I look for in baby sunglasses?
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory, so it’s crucial to choose ones that offer excellent sun protection.
UV400 is the highest rating for UVA and UVB protection, having been tried and tested to filter out 99% of harmful rays. Some sunglasses will also be described as offering 100% UVA and UVB protection.
You may also see references to categories. These refer to the darkness of the lenses and their effectiveness at reducing glare. Category 3 lenses are dark and ideal for bright, sunny days, while Category 4 lenses are designed for more extreme weather conditions, such as high altitudes and at sea. Most baby sunglasses are category 3, which is more than adequate for everyday use.
How to choose the best baby sunglasses
Voon shared the following guidance for considering baby sunglasses:
- UKCA or CE Mark: When choosing a pair of sunglasses, the most crucial factor is to ensure that they have a CE (European Conformity) or UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark, which indicates that they provide adequate UV protection.
- Comfort: For a comfortable fit, look for frames made from soft, flexible materials such as silicone or lightweight plastic. These are lightweight and gentle on little faces and also less likely to break when handled by your child.
- Adjustable or elastic straps: A strap helps keep the sunglasses in place and is more difficult for babies and toddlers to remove. This can provide peace of mind for parents, knowing they won’t be discarded when needed most.
- Wrap-around or wide frames: Good coverage is essential. Wrap-around styles can help block the peripheral rays from entering the eye, while large lenses can provide considerable shading around the eye.
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Mum of two specialises in parenting and lifestyle content and loves helping parents find the best products to support their family. Creating content on her own blog since 2012, Lucy has also written parenting content for top publications, including Mumsnet, Emma’s Diary, Families Online, IndyBest and The Standard.
MCOptom Prof Cert Med Ret, Clinical Advisor at the College of Optometrists
To assist with my research and testing, I spoke with Denise Voon, Clinical Advisor at the College of Optometrists.
Having worked in low vision, specialist contact lens, diabetic retinal screening, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and paediatric clinics, Denise is also a specialist optometrist at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, an optometric adviser to the General Optical Council (GOC) and a domiciliary optometrist. She also won Optometrist of the Year in 2019 in the Macular Society’s Awards for Excellence.
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