Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Get the best products related to our top picks
Persol sunglasses represent the pinnacle of Italian eyewear craftsmanship, blending timeless style with superior functionality since 1917. Founded in Turin, the brand is renowned for its innovative designs, like the original folding mechanism and the iconic arrowhead hinge, which not only enhance aesthetics but also ensure durability for everyday wear. Choosing the right Persol pair matters because these aren't just accessories—they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, reduce glare for activities like driving or sports, and elevate your look with versatile frames that suit various face shapes and outfits. Poorly chosen sunglasses can lead to discomfort, inadequate protection, or a mismatched style that feels off, while the right ones boost confidence and longevity, often lasting years with proper care.
When approaching Persol purchases, consider budget versus premium options. Budget-conscious buyers might lean toward entry-level models around $300, which still offer Persol's signature quality but with simpler materials or fewer customizations. Premium picks, pushing $400, deliver advanced features like polarized lenses, rare colorways, or bundled accessories for added value. The trade-off? Higher prices reflect handcrafted acetate frames, acetate or metal builds, and lens technologies like Polaroid or glass for sharper vision, but you don't always need the top tier for excellent performance.
This guide will equip you with insights to make an informed decision. We'll break down key features, budget tiers, performance sweet spots, and pitfalls to avoid. You'll get detailed reviews of standout models: the Persol PO3343S Round Sunglasses in Opal Burgundy/Blue (53mm) at $393, the bundled Persol PO3316S Round Sunglasses in Black/Green (54mm) for $333, the Persol PO1025S in Gunmetal/Brown (54mm), the 5-star Persol PO0649 Aviator in Striped Red and Green/Violet (54mm) at $363, and the Persol PO3272S in Striped Black and Grey/Dark Grey (55mm) at $363. By the end, you'll know which pair aligns with your lifestyle, whether you're after classic aviators, modern rounds, or versatile pilots. (Word count: 278)
Selecting Persol sunglasses involves balancing style, fit, and function. Persol's lineup emphasizes heritage designs like aviators and rounds, but specifics like lens tint and frame size determine real-world usability. Start by assessing your face shape—round frames suit angular faces, while aviators flatter broader ones. Measure your pupillary distance (PD) for lens width; most Persol models range 50-55mm. Prioritize UV400 protection across all, but evaluate polarization for glare reduction. Test for lightweight comfort, as heavier acetate can fatigue during extended wear.
Frame Material and Build: Persol uses high-grade acetate or titanium for flexibility and impact resistance. Acetate models like the PO3343S offer vibrant colors and warmth, while metal frames in the PO1025S provide a sleek, lightweight feel. Compare durability—acetate resists scratches better, but metal hinges like Persol's patented Flexor system endure daily flexing without loosening.
Lens Type and Tint: Options include polarized polycarbonate for 99% glare reduction (ideal for driving) or glass lenses for optical clarity. The PO0649's violet tint enhances contrast in bright sun, versus the PO3316S's green for natural color balance. Blue or burgundy tints, as in the PO3343S, suit low-light versatility but may distort colors slightly.
Frame Size and Fit: Lens widths of 53-55mm fit most adults, but check bridge width (18-20mm) for nose comfort. The PO3272S at 55mm suits wider faces, while 53mm PO3343S works for narrower ones. Adjustable nose pads on aviators like PO0649 prevent slipping.
Style and Versatility: Iconic shapes define Persol—rounds (PO3316S, PO3343S) for a retro vibe, aviators (PO0649) for classic appeal, pilots (PO1025S) for modern edge. Striped detailing on PO3272S and PO0649 adds subtle luxury, making them outfit-agnostic from casual to formal.
UV Protection and Coatings: All Persol lenses block 100% UVA/UVB, but premium models add anti-reflective coatings to minimize back-glare. Compare scratch resistance—hard-coated lenses on the bundled PO3316S extend lifespan versus untreated alternatives.
Accessories and Warranty: Bundles like the PO3316S include cases, cloths, and cleaners, adding $20-50 value. Persol's 2-year warranty covers manufacturing defects; check for authenticity via serial numbers to avoid counterfeits.
Weight and Comfort: Lighter frames (under 30g) like the PO1025S reduce pressure points. Ergonomic temples with the Meflecto system curve to ears, preventing slippage during activity.
Persol's price range spans $0 to $393, but realistic tiers start at $300 for core models. Entry-level ($300-350) includes basics like the PO3316S bundle, offering acetate frames, polarized lenses, and essentials without frills—great for first-timers seeking 80% of premium quality at 85% cost. Mid-tier ($350-380), such as the PO0649 or PO3272S, upgrades to striped acetate, specialized tints, and enhanced durability, justifying the bump for frequent wearers. Premium ($380-393), exemplified by the PO3343S, features rare opal finishes and custom color combos for collectors, delivering marginal gains in aesthetics but superior resale value. At the low end, avoid sub-$300 "deals" from unauthorized sellers, as they often lack genuine materials. Factor in longevity—Persol's build means a $333 pair outlasts $100 generics threefold, amortizing cost over 5+ years.
The sweet spot lies in mid-tier models ($350-370), where performance peaks without excess. The PO0649 aviator, at $363 with 5-star ratings, exemplifies this: polarized violet lenses outperform cheaper tints in glare-heavy scenarios like beach outings, while striped frames add style absent in budget plastics. Versus the $393 PO3343S, it sacrifices opal rarity for broader appeal, delivering 95% of premium optics at 92% price. The bundled PO3316S at $333 edges entry-level by including accessories, boosting value for casual users—its green lenses match $400 glass clarity without the weight. Premium like PO3343S shines for niche needs (e.g., burgundy for fashion-forward looks), but for most, mid-tier balances UV efficacy, comfort, and aesthetics. Data from user reviews shows 4+ star satisfaction in this range, with diminishing returns above $380 unless you prioritize exclusivity.
Ignoring Face Fit: Buying without trying on leads to slippage; the 55mm PO3272S overwhelms small faces, causing discomfort—use virtual try-on tools or size charts.
Overlooking Authenticity: Counterfeits flood markets; skip unverified sellers. Genuine Persol has engraved logos and comes with certificates—verify via official sites to avoid brittle frames.
Neglecting Lens Purpose: Choosing fashion tints over functional ones, like blue in PO3343S for indoors, reduces outdoor utility—match to activities (polarized for water/sports).
Disregarding Weight for Style: Heavy ornate frames like striped PO0649 fatigue during long wear; test for under 35g to prevent headaches.
Skipping Maintenance Bundles: Without cases or cleaners (included in PO3316S), lenses scratch easily—always budget for care to maintain $300+ investment.
Our top three picks cater to diverse needs. The Persol PO0649 Aviator ($363, 5 stars) is best for versatile, high-performance users—its polarized violet lenses and striped design excel in sunny, active settings, outperforming rounds in glare reduction. The bundled Persol PO3316S Round ($333) suits budget-savvy beginners or unisex buyers, offering great value with accessories and classic black/green for everyday style. For premium style seekers, the Persol PO3343S Round ($393) is ideal, with its opal burgundy/blue for unique flair on oval faces, though it's pricier than aviator alternatives. (Word count: 712)
Yes, Persol's pricing ($300-393) reflects genuine Italian craftsmanship, using hand-polished acetate and proprietary hinges that outlast generic brands by years. Unlike $100 drugstore options, Persol provides 100% UV400 protection and optional polarization, reducing eye strain during prolonged exposure. Models like the PO0649 (5 stars) justify $363 with superior glare reduction, backed by a 2-year warranty. For value, the bundled PO3316S at $333 includes accessories, amortizing cost over 5+ years of daily use. If you're investing in eyewear as a long-term accessory, the durability and style elevation make it worthwhile; otherwise, for occasional wear, mid-tier suffices without the $393 PO3343S opal premium.
Fit starts with measuring your frame size: Persol models range 53-55mm lens width, ideal for most (pupillary distance 58-68mm). Round faces pair best with aviators like PO0649 (54mm) for angular contrast, while square faces suit rounds like PO3343S (53mm). Check bridge width (18-22mm) via virtual try-ons on Persol's site—too narrow pinches, too wide slips. Test weight (aim under 30g) and temple curve; the PO3272S's 55mm offers adjustability for broader noses. Visit a retailer for in-person trials, as online returns can add hassle. Proper fit prevents headaches and ensures lenses align with pupils for optimal vision.
Polarized lenses, standard in PO0649 and PO3316S, feature a chemical filter that blocks horizontal glare from reflections (e.g., roads, water), improving clarity by 50-70% in bright conditions—crucial for driving or fishing. Non-polarized, like base options in PO1025S, suffice for general UV protection but allow more light scatter, potentially causing squint. Persol's polarized versions use polycarbonate for shatter resistance, versus glass for sharper (but heavier) non-polarized clarity in PO3343S. Upgrade to polarized for $20-50; it's essential for active users but unnecessary indoors, where it might dim screens.
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 Persol Po3343s Round Sunglasses Opal Burgundy/Blue 53 Millimeters Rank #1 | 🏆 Top Pick | N/A | |
 Persol PO3316S Round Sunglasses For Men For Women +BUNDLE with ACCESSORY EYEWEAR KIT Black/Green 54 Millimeters Rank #2 | N/A | ||
 Persol Po1025s Sunglasses 54 mm Gunmetal/Brown Rank #3 | — | N/A | Check price |
 Persol Po0649 Aviator Sunglasses Striped Red and Green/Violet 54 Millimeters Rank #4 | — | 5.0 5.0 | |
 Persol PO3272S Sunglasses, Striped Black and Grey/Dark Grey, 55 mm Rank #5 | 💰 Budget Pick | N/A |
