Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission
Putting on a pair of sunnies when you run out the door is about more than just accessorizing your look. Keeping the sun out of your eyes with sunglasses is a key step in maintaining optimal eye health as you age. And Lilan Le, OD, optometrist at walk-in optical studio Heywear, says you should be wearing them every time you go outside.
Lilan Le, OD, is an optometrist at walk-in optical studio Heywear.
“In addition to reducing the brightness of being outdoors for comfortable vision, sunglasses reduce your exposure to harmful ultraviolet light protecting the sensitive parts of our eyes,” says Dr. Le. “Sunglasses should be worn outdoors regardless of whether it’s sunny or cloudy because UV rays will still transmit through the clouds. In addition, wearing a hat along with your sunglasses will reduce exposure.”
5 reasons to wear sunglasses for eye health
“The sun exposes us to ultraviolet light which can cause significant damage to our eyes over time,” says De. Le. “This can lead to several ocular conditions.”
1. Skin cancer
“Skin cancer can occur on our eyelids as with other parts of our body due to the harsh effects of long-term exposure to UV radiation,” says Dr. Le. You also want to make sure you’re applying sunscreen to your eyelids.
2. Surfer’s eye
“Pterygium/pinguecula is a growth of tissue that spreads from the white of our eyes towards the optical center of our eyes on our cornea,” says Dr. Le. “[It’s] also known as surfer’s eye due to the reflection of sunlight off of the surface of the water increasing exposure to surfers. If left untreated, it can change the cornea tissue which causes distortion or vision loss.”
3. Cataracts
“Cataracts occur when the lens of the eyes become cloudy resulting in decreased visual clarity and potential blindness if untreated,” says Dr. Le. “It is a common condition that develops slowly over years as we age but exposure to ultraviolet light can increase the speed of development.”
advertisement
4. Photokeratitis
“Photokeratitis is a corneal burn that occurs due to strong UV rays most commonly seen from a day at the beach or slopes,” says Dr. Le. “This can create symptoms of blurred vision, light sensitivity, and pain.
5. Macular degeneration
“Macular degeneration is also a potential side effect which causes central vision loss. The macula is the center of our retina where we see the clearest vision of our eyes,” says Dr. Le. “Generally, most of the harmful rays are filtered out with the cornea and lens but there is some evidence that suggests the remaining rays can cause some damage to the retina increasing the risk of developing macular degeneration.”
10 pairs of sunglasses for eye health under $30
When shopping for sunglasses for eye health, Dr. Le says to look for sunglasses with an anti-reflective coating and that block UV 400 and shorter wavelengths. “This will reduce exposure to 99.9 percent of harmful days from the sun,” she says. Additionally, you want lenses that cover the entire eye, so those teeny tiny glasses won’t cut it. “For outdoor activities around water or reflective surfaces, polarized sunglasses will block horizontal light to decrease eye strain and reflection,” she says. As long as your glasses meet these requirements, the color of your lens does not impact the effectiveness of UV protection.
That being said, getting sunglasses that completely fit the bill can add up. Below, you’ll find eight pairs that you can customize to get optimal protection. You can also have them made with your prescription (and if you do, you can spend your FSA/HSA dollars).
Shop these chic glasses from EyeBuyDirect. To get full UV 400 protection, be sure to select gradient, mirrored, or polarized lenses. Mirrored and polarized lenses are also complete with an anti-reflective coating. The frames are available in three styles: brown (pictured), tortoise, and black with various different lens colors depending on the type of lens you get.
Add a pop of color to your sunglass collection with these green frames. To get 100 percent UV protection, select from premium Tivex or polarized lenses and add on reflective coating. Both are available in tinted or mirrored finishes in a variety of colors. Pictured are the gradient green lenses with mirror.
These aviator frames come in black (pictured) and gunmetal. To get full UV 400 protection, be sure to select gradient, mirrored, or polarized lenses. Mirrored and polarized lenses are also complete with an anti-reflective coating.
Keep it simple with these large round sunglasses. These frames are available in three styles: ivory tortise (pictured), floral tortise (black, purple, and brown mix), and black. To get full UV 400 protection, be sure to select gradient, mirrored, or polarized lenses. Mirrored and polarized lenses are also complete with an anti-reflective coating.
Opt for these thin frames for a delicate yet patterned look with wither tortoiseshell (pictured), navy, or brown-to-clear ombre frames. To get 100 percent UV protection, select from premium Tivex or polarized lenses. Pictured are the tortoiseshell frames with a dark gray tinted lens.
The oval Culture frames from EyebuyDirect come in bronze (pictured), black, and gold. To get full UV 400 protection, be sure to select gradient, mirrored, or polarized lenses. Mirrored and polarized lenses are also complete with an anti-reflective coating.
The Samba frames from EyeBuyDirect introduce a touch of color along the browline. They are available in mint frost (pictured), pink, and floral (a pinkish-gray mix). To get full UV 400 protection, be sure to select gradient, mirrored, or polarized lenses. Mirrored and polarized lenses are also complete with an anti-reflective coating.
Have fun with these metal aviators from Zenni, which are available in rose gold (pictured) gold, gray, and silver. To get 100 percent UV protection, select from premium Tivex or polarized lenses. Both are available in tinted or mirrored finishes in a variety of colors. Pictured are the rose gold frames with mirrored gradient amber lenses.
These bold frames from EyeBuyDirect make a serious impression. They’re available in black (pictured), yellow, tortoise, and aqua. To get full UV 400 protection, be sure to select gradient, mirrored, or polarized lenses. Mirrored and polarized lenses are also complete with an anti-reflective coating.
Go big with these cat-eye sunglasses from Zenni. They’re available in tortoiseshell (pictured), lagoon, hibiscus, and papaya. To get 100 percent UV protection, select from premium Tivex or polarized lenses and add on reflective coating. Both are available in tinted or mirrored finishes in a variety of colors. Pictured are tortoiseshell frames with dark amber tint lenses.
Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission
When you either live in a really cold place, or are vacationing in a really cold place, the best women’s winter coats for extreme cold are essential. There’s cold places and then there’s really cold places. I, for one, live in a really cold place. Lake Placid, New York is a small tourist town tucked away in upstate New York. Not, like, the Castkills upstate. Like, Canadian border upstate. Come winter, temps regularly hit below freezing. The icy, snowy weather mixed with the access to mountains (hello, skiing!) have landed it not one, but two winter Olympic games. Simply put, the place is freakin’ cold and having the right cold winter gear is pretty much mandatory.
Living in what is effectively the tundra, I have learned to dress for such volatile weather. And while things like snow boots and fleece-lined leggings are very much needed, the one essential I recommend for keeping out the chill is a winter coat for the extreme cold. It’s a non-negotiable. And not just any old winter coat but the right winter coat—these are the pieces that keep you warm when the temps hit the negatives or keep you dry when a snow squall blows through during your casual evening stroll.
If you’re gearing up for a long, chilly winter and are in the market for a new coat, you’ve come to the right place. Take it from someone who lives in a cold place—these are the best women’s winter coats for the extreme cold.
Shop the best women’s winter coats for extreme cold
Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 6 | Materials: Recycled polyester shell, recycled down fill
This is my go-to parka that I’ll toss on for running errands, walking the dog, weekend getaways—just about anything. It comes down to your knees, which, IMO, is perfect parka length. As for the specs: It’s filled with a recycled 600-fill down that’s warm without being stuffy or chunky, so you can layer in comfort. It also has a water-repellent finish on the recycled polyester exterior, which helps keep snowy moisture at bay. If you’re looking for a solid overall pick, this is a solid bet.
Columbia’s Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket has a heat-reflective lining and a synthetic down lining. For light snow, rain, and wind, this toasty coat is a no-brainer. Plus, it’s feature-friendly, with extras like a sherpa-lined hood (to keep your ears snug) and a 2-way zipper that can allow for better mobility.
Sizes: XXS-M | Colors: 2 | Materials: Down insulation, recycled nylon lining, polyester and cotton outer
This water-resistant Canada Goose parka may be pricey, but is loaded with features to keep you warm. It has a 625-fill-power down insulation, a removable extended hood trim, and snap closures on the cuffs and the back to lock in heat. It has interior and exterior pockets, as well as handy backpack straps inside that let you carry your jacket hands-free.
Sizes: XXS-XL (with petite, regular, and plus options) | Colors: 5 | Materials: Recycled polyester shell, DownTek insulation
You can’t beat L.L.Bean for affordable, high-quality winter coats. The Mountain Classic Down Parka is filled with 650-fill DownTek down insulation (which is coated to stay dry and prevent clumping) and is rated for temps down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The recycled shell repels moisture and stops the wind chill, too, without clumping the down or getting it wet. It also has a detachable hood. For under $200, this jacket is a winner.
This jacket has a snuggly fill, thigh-length design, and added fur-trim parka. It’s crafted to be totally sealed against cold temps and has a thick layer of insulation for protection and warmth, plus a double enclosure and windproof ribbed cuffs to keep the chill out. It’s also waterproof.
This jacket, nicknamed “the Amazon coat,” has been the star of many an Instagram feed. It’s affordable, stylish, and warm. It has a fleece-lined hood, side zippers to let you wear it looser, and so many roomy pockets (six) that you’ll almost never need to carry a bag again. Better yet, it comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes. You can also find styles with a fur-lined hood if that’s your jam.
If you do live in a place where temps frequent below zero, I would recommend investing in an Woolrich jacket. The brand is beloved for all things cold-weather, and while expensive, its products are worth it. The Aurora is a full-length parka with an insulated hood, made to withstand temperatures down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit. It has a water-resistant nylon exterior, too.
Pros:
Withstands temperatures down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit
This jacket has everything you want out of a resort or backcountry jacket—lightweight, yet reliable insulation that doesn’t compromise movement, an exterior that actually stops moisture in its tracks, a helmet-compatible hood, underarm vents, pockets for hands-free storage, and more.
Waterproof and breathable, the Stio Environ jacket is made with recycled fabric that will keep you dry and warm on the mountain. It has a removable hood, underarm vents, pockets inside and out, and a snow skirt for those long days on the slopes or tubing hills. Plus, Stio is Carbon Neutral Certified, making this one of the more sustainable picks on our list.
Sizes: XXS-3XL (with standard and plus options) | Colors: 6 | Materials: Recycled nylon outer, 700-fill goose down insulation
Throw it back to the ’90s (or 1996, to be exact), which is when the original version of this puffer was introduced. This version still has that retro look, but with modern touches. It’s made of recycled fabrics, and has 700-fill down, a water-repellent exterior, and a stowable hood. The jacket also packs itself into the right hand pocket, which is super handy for travel.
Sizes: XXS-3XL (with regular and tall options) | Colors: 1 | Materials: Recycled nylon, 3M Thinsulate down alternative insulation
Not everyone likes the Jet Puff fluffernutter look of a down jacket. That’s okay—you can get something slim that still stays warm, like this parka from Athleta. Instead of down, it’s filled with a lightweight alternative to traditional feather fluff. The exterior is made of recycled, water-repellent nylon, leaving you with a featherlight coat that is quietly cozy—without overdoing it.
This award-winning jacket is built for the slopes but can be worn just well off them, too. It’s made with three sturdy layers of waterproof protection that keep you dry and warm (but never sweaty or sticky). Just note, It’s technically a shell which means it’s made for layering and keeping your clothes dry from wind, rain, and snow (aka, layer up).
Like its name suggests, the Ghost Whisperer Hoody from Mountain Hardwear packs down in a pinch, so you’ll forget anything’s there. It’s perfect for indoor and outdoor adventures alike. Still, this coat packs a lot of heat: with 800-fill RDS-certified goose down insulation and an elastic draw-cord hem, you’ll have no problem fending off the cold winter air.
Pros:
Super lightweight and easy to stow
Recycled, water-resistant nylon ripstop shell
Cons:
Only standard sizes available (no plus or petites)
The outside of this jacket is a weather-resistant material that sloughs off rain, sleet, and snow. But the inside features a wool insulator designed to keep you snug as a bug whether you’re running up a mountain or down the road. It’s airy and durable, built to stay to warm stride after stride.
Noize is a one-stop shop for all things cruelty free, eco-friendly, and sustainably-made. This mid-length heavyweight parka does a darn good job keeping the cold out when the temps drop. In true Noize fashion, there’s no bird feathers or animal fur—everything is vegan, so you can look good and feel good, too.
Cotopaxi is a certified B Corp, which means ethical sustainability is built into all of their products. This jacket is not only warm, water-resistant, and lightweight, but it’s also made with responsibly-sourced down. It has elastic binding at the hood and cuffs to keep heat inside, and it comes in a ton of colorful patterns. One percent of company revenues also goes to the Cotopaxi Foundation to help alleviate poverty.
Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 3 | Materials: Organic cotton and recycled nylon lining, recycled down
This long puffer is versatile and casual enough to pair of jeans or joggers, so you’ll want to wear it all season long. It has a drawstring hood and drawstring waist, and oversized front pockets for convenience. Bonus: It’s also made of recycled fabric and filled with recycled down insulation.
Pros:
Casual design makes this pick easier to dress up (or down)
Sizes: 0-14 | Colors: 2 | Materials: Polyester (recycled and new), 600-fill goose down insulation
This puffer has a cinchable waist so you can pull it in tight, or leave extra room to layer underneath. The 600-fill goose down insulation will help keep your torso toasty, while the recycled polyester exterior helps keep wind and water at bay. Plus, it has a removable hood and it comes in classic colors so you’re sure to find something to match your wardrobe.
A classic wool coat is a closet essential. This one from Quince is made with Italian wool to wrap you in cozy warmth. It’s lined, has a standing collar, and inconspicuous side pockets for a sleek, stylish look.
When it comes to insulated winter coats, you’ll want to take stock of the “fill power,” which indicates how warm the jacket will be. If you’re hoping to stay toasty with a down or down-alternative jacket, look for insulation that’s 600-fill or higher. Additionally, think about how you’ll be using your coat: if you’re looking to stay warm while skiing or snowboarding, prioritize water-resistant or waterproof materials.
How much coverage do you need?
Coverage is a matter of personal preference (and your personal style), but keeping your legs and bum warm with a long puffer coat can be extremely helpful when the temperature plummets. Still, there are plenty of warm waist-length jackets on this list if a longer fit isn’t for you.
What features are important to you in a winter coat?
The coats on our list have a variety of added bells and whistles. Whether you’re looking for a winter coat with deep pockets, a removable hood, interior shoulder straps, or built-in hand cuffs, you’ll find a coat with your desired features on this list. Just note that they sometimes come at a higher price (as with the Canada Goose pick, above).
What’s your budget?
As our list proves, you can certainly find a quality winter coat at a wide variety of prices. There are plenty of lower-priced coats on our list (as far as winter coats go, that is), but some of the more reputable brands above come with a higher price tag—they also may be more durable and even help out with repairs (as with Patagonia) down the line.
Frequently asked questions about winter coats for extreme cold
What coats are as warm as Canada Goose?
Canada Goose coats are revered for being some of the warmest jackets around, thanks to their higher fill count. Still, there are a handful of other coats on our list that have the same 600-and-up fill count, if not higher. Look for brands that offer 600- to 800-fill warmth and wind-resistant outers for maximum toastiness. The North Face, Mountain Hardwear, and Cotopaxi coats we reviewed all meet that criteria.
What is a warm winter coat that is not bulky?
Puffer coats tend to be on the bulky side (all that insulation has to go somewhere!), but you can find plenty of warm jackets that keep a low profile. As mentioned above, the Athleta Whisper Featherless Parka and the Quince Italian Wool Cocoon Coat both offer a slimmer profile without compromising too much in the warmth department.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
