Aviator, Square, Sport or Retro? A Man's Guide to Sunglasses Styles (2026)
Square, aviator, sport or retro? The main sunglasses styles for men, what each one is for, and the A&W pick for each.
Last updated: July 2026
The sunglasses styles most men actually wear come down to four families: square, aviator and metal, sport and shield, and retro. Square frames are the safe modern default, aviators and metal frames read classic and refined, sport and shield styles are built for movement and glare, and retro frames add character. Pick the family that suits your face and your day, and the choice gets easy. Here is what separates each one, and the pair to start with.
In this article
- The four styles at a glance
- Square frames
- Aviator and metal frames
- Sport and shield
- Retro frames
- How to choose
- FAQ
The four styles at a glance
| Style | Vibe | Best for | A&W pick |
|---|---|---|---|
| Square | Modern, versatile | The everyday default | UV400 Square, $34.99 |
| Aviator / metal | Classic, refined | Smart and travel days | Travel Day, $39.98 |
| Sport / shield | Active, bold | Movement and glare | Polarized Sport, $39.99 |
| Retro | Characterful, fashion | Standing out | Steampunk Square, $24.99 |
Square frames
Square and rectangular frames are the modern default for a reason: they suit most faces, especially rounder ones, and they look clean with everything from a tee to a shirt. If you want one pair that just works, start here. A UV400 square in black or tortoise is the safe, versatile choice you will reach for daily.
Clean square frames with full UV400 protection. The versatile everyday pair.
Aviator and metal frames
Aviators and slim metal frames are the timeless option. The thin metal construction reads refined and lightweight, and the shape flatters square and heart-shaped faces in particular. They dress up a simple outfit and travel well, which makes them the go-to for smarter days and time on the move.
Slim metal frames with a classic line. Light, refined, and made for the move.
Sport and shield
Sport and shield frames wrap the face for coverage, grip and glare control, which is what you want for driving, running, cycling or any day in strong sun. Polarized lenses take the edge off harsh reflections. These are the most functional style, and a wraparound sport pair earns its place in any warm-weather kit.
Wraparound sport frames with polarized lenses that cut glare. Built for movement.
Retro frames
Retro frames are the style move. Bolder shapes, tinted or gradient lenses and vintage detailing add personality to a plain outfit. They are less about blending in and more about a look, so reach for them when you want the sunglasses to be part of the outfit rather than an afterthought.
Vintage-inspired frames with real character. For when the sunglasses make the look.
How to choose
Two quick filters. First, your face: rounder faces suit angular square frames, more angular faces suit softer or metal frames, and most faces can carry a classic aviator. Second, your use: everyday wear points to square, smart or travel days to metal, active days to sport, and standout looks to retro. Own one versatile square pair, then add a sport or retro pair as your second. For the full breakdown, see the guides below.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main styles of men's sunglasses?
The core families are square and rectangular, aviator and metal, sport and shield, and retro. Square is the versatile default, aviators are classic, sport frames handle movement and glare, and retro adds character.
What sunglasses style suits most men?
A square or rectangular frame is the safest all-rounder, since it suits most faces and outfits. A classic aviator is a close second for versatility.
Are polarized lenses worth it?
Yes, if you drive, spend time near water, or are often in bright sun. Polarized lenses cut glare and improve clarity. See our polarized guide below for the full picture.
What does UV400 mean?
UV400 means the lenses block essentially all UVA and UVB rays up to 400 nanometres, which is the protection you want. It is separate from polarization, which is about glare.
How many pairs of sunglasses should a man own?
Two covers most needs: one versatile everyday pair, usually square or aviator, and one specialist pair, either a sport frame or a retro style, depending on your days.
Go deeper: choosing sunglasses for your face shape, polarized vs non-polarized, the best pairs for travel and the beach and the best sport and cycling sunglasses.
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