Alue Sunglasses – Traditional Styles, Lenses and Frames

By Blair Howard, About.com Guide

It’s been a long time since I owned a “traditional” pair of sunglasses with real glass lenses. I really didn’t think I would ever do so again, until I was introduced to the Alue Optics line of sunglasses, that is. Not quite as lightweight as the polycarbonate sports sunglasses we’ve all gotten used to, but a definite cross-over that’s just as at home on the golf course as out and about in the real world. I have been testing the Alue Eight, a classic large aviator, hand-made in Italy, with polished silver frame, silicone nosepads, spring hinges and Alue’s polarized AQ lenses. As you may know, I have some very particular criteria when it comes to purchasing a pair of sunglasses, including eye safety – my number 1 requirement, - durability and style: they have to look good. The Alue Eight aviators certainly do look good. The lenses comply with the rules laid out in my Four Tips for Buying a Pair of Sunglasses, which is a must for me. The lens technology? Here’s a small sample:

The Alue AQ-Polarized lens is constructed with the finest grade 1, optical mineral glass, promoting optimal visual clarity. All AQ-Polarized lenses provide:

• 100% UV-A and UV-B protection
• 100% blue light protection to 410 nm
• 94% blue light protection to 480 nm

Brown based to let you see true color, the AQ-P lens also has front and back hydrophobic coatings to resist smudge and dirt, and an anti-reflective coating to reduce glares. See your world through a better lens!

Now, about the frames: Wire frames are handmade in Italy, acetate frames are handmade in Japan, and cellulose propionate frames are made in Italy. The movement is crisp; the nosepieces are comfortable, and, most important, there’s no ghost image visible – that dark, annoying shadow we often find showing up at the bridge between the two lenses. The Alue sunglasses all come with a unique case that folds flat when you’re wearing the sunglasses – an easy fit into a pocket or purse.

True, they are a little on the expensive side, but not as expensive as some better-known, but lesser quality brands. There are eight styles in the range priced from $175 to $275: The Alue Eight retails for about $275 and you can buy them online at their website. If you’re looking for a unique gift idea, the Alue sunglasses just might fit the bill.

Note: never buy a pair of sunglasses without checking out my Four Tips For Buying a Pair of Sunglasses

As is common in the industry, the writer was provided with complimentary sample of the product. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.