When looking for sunglasses, a lot of the time you’ll find that price is synonymous with quality–expensive glasses perform well while some of the cheaper ones possess a level of quality not fit for your hamster. Combining the best of both worlds is Peppers Polarized Eyeware; producing quality sunglasses since 1994 and selling them for a price that won’t leave you eating Ramen noodles for dinner. Eight different model lines provide an array of styles to accommodate both fitness freaks and beach bums alike. Here we highlight a couple examples of what they have to offer.
Halo on the left, Sunset BLVD on the right.
Part of the Speedline Collection–blending an active fit with leisure styling–the Sunset BLVD is a new, classic styled frame that’s perfect for cruising the strip. The TAC-tical (triple-layer acetate) polarized lenses eliminate glare and the high-strength Grilamid frames add durability while keeping the stems quite flexible. They are available in six different colors–ranging from flashy Crystal red w/ Fire Red Mirror lenses to a more traditional Shiny Black w/ Smoke colored lenses. These are super lightweight, polarized shades that retail for $45.
For the ladies, Peppers offers the Halo from the premier SMP line. The SMP Polarized Technology consists of a seven-layer lens. At the center of these layers is a polarizing filter with a polycarbonate lens both inside and out. Both are treated with anti-reflective coatings and then inner and outer hydrophobic coatings are applied to repel water, dust and fingerprints. The frame is a mixture of classic and modern styling, with an aviator-like shape—constructed of Grilamid—and held together with durable metal hinges. The result: a stylin’ frame that will hold up extremely well. Get these high-quality specs for just $70.
Both of these models offer a medium fit and are just a taste of what Peppers has to offer. The entire line ranges from $30 to $70 and every pair comes with a user-friendly, lifetime warranty. Scratches, dents or defects get you a new pair for free within one year (with proof of purchase) or for just a $20 handling fee after that. With the amount of options available, even the pickiest person should be able to find a pair of Peppers that fit.
Pros: Durable, polarized glasses at an affordable price.
Cons: Website doesn’t contain much info about the specs; look for them at local retailers such as REI and Sports Authority.
Website: peppersusa.com
*Stay tuned for an extensive roundup of sunglasses in the October, 2012 issue of Freeskier. The October issue is available in print, and on the iTunes newsstand.
