Oakley's Enduring - Sunglasses designed by women for women

Sunglasses to me are what Manolo's are like to Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker, in case you've been living under a rock.) I have the beach "cheapies" (10 bucks) and my stylish Kate Spades (let's just say over a hundred dollars), but for real performance I always carry my Oakley's. Simply put, they make the best polarized lenses - no distortion, real colors, and because of the "water sheer" factor, you can even wear them in the pool. (Oakley calls it, amusingly, the Hydrophobic feature, but basically it's a permanent lens coating that prevents water from leaving streaks and sheens, which can compromise vision. It also works against sweat, skin oils, fingerprints and suntan lotions.)

Now they've taken them one step further and improved the fit by enlisting female athletes in the design process. The result? Two sizes of interchangeable nose pieces which come with every frame, adapting for the perfect fit, and a frame made of something called "Unobtanium," which makes them light. Also, the supple synthetic increases grip with perspiration.

For unbeatable clarity at all angles of vision - even at the sides - the lens contours provide peripheral view and optimize protection against sun and wind, and - god forbid - side impact.

Two different lens shapes let you choose the amount of lens coverage; I prefer the Pace style but the Edge is very sporty, and I like them for biking. There's tons of frames and lenses to chose from. Whatever your choice, the semi-rimless design ensures that there's no frame rim to block downward view.