Gunnar Barron Sunglasses Impressions

Glasses and nerd culture go hand-in-hand. Whether it’s to protect users from eye strain from staring at monitors/TVs for long periods, or just more simply to see from a distance/up close, nerds and glasses are two peas in a pod. Just ask our very own beefy Lord Cognito, he never streams an episode of Iron Lords Podcast without his blue-light blocking glasses. 

Gunnar has clearly served its gaming-centric customers, well but now it is leveraging its unique styles and lens technology to expand its horizons. This includes prescription eyewear, lenses for specific conditions such as migraines and sleep support, and of course, traditional sunglasses. Enter the Barron sunglasses, a new take on a traditional design with impressive tech behind makes it a great selection for those who need UV protection from outdoor activities.

Price // US$89.99

Lens Technology // Blue 90 Lens, Smudge-Resistant Coating

Weight // 27.7g (0.97oz)

Availability // Sunglasses, Prescription, and Gaming Glasses

What’s in the Box?

When you order any pair of spectacles from Gunnar, it comes with some usual goodies:

• Flat Tri-Fold Case
• Microfiber Pouch
• Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
• 12-month Warrant

The pouch and cleaning cloth, in particular, have a premium textured feel to them. While the folding case is quite sturdy and is quickly becoming an iconic part of Gunnars’ branding. 

Gunnar Barron Sunglasses Design

Boasting a wide array of different collaborations has created some unique designs from Gunnar. From Overwatch to Call of Duty collabs, Gunnars is coming into its own fray when it comes to creating unqiue designs.   

If there’s one negative about having a round-shaped head– and believe me, there are many negatives– is that not many glasses shape suit our head shapes. Usually, square, or rounded square sunglasses fit nicely, but everything else is nearly a no-go.

That is why the Barron sunglasses immediately caught my eye (pun intended). Yes, it looks like squared-off Aviators, but they look so distinctive, so bold, it’s hard not to be impressed with the design. Best of all, the Barrons can look good wearing a variety of different attires.

The Barron sunglasses has different design markings etched into different parts of the frame and it makes it look sleek as hell. While the plastic encasing around the blue lens just give that unique flair.

Build Quality

Despite its lightweight (27.7g/0.97oz), the Barron sunglasses use different materials that add to the premium feel. The metal frame and plastics feel solid. I appreciated that the screws used in the sunglasses are flat heads, so it will make tightening myself quite easy. 

Impressive Lens Tech

I usually don’t go for colored lenses, but the Barron sunglasses had some impressive tech behind their lens. For one, coming from a very hot and humid climate, UV rays are always a concern. Fortunately, the Barron offers full UVA/UVB protection, which will keep your eyes protected from harmful rays that could cause long-term issues.

The Barron’s lens is rated 90 which blocks 90% of blue light at 450nm. Typically, I use sunglasses when I’m driving or just out and about. The Barron doesn’t get in the way of my car’s HUD which I rely on all the time. Nor does it detract when using my phone or other tech when I’m outdoors.

If you have kids, especially toddlers, you know how easily they smudge up your glasses/sunglasses. Fortunately, the Barron lenses have a special smudge-resistant lens coating. Surprisingly, it works pretty well, just make sure to wash your kids’ hands after handling your glasses. 

Final Thoughts on the Gunnar Barron Sunglasses

Gunnar is quickly expanding beyond its traditional gaming customer base, while still retaining that high-caliber quality they are known for. Already its 2025 lineup is looking to be its most diverse yet. Its lens technology is impressive and versatile while maintaining unique designs and solid build quality. The accessories that come in the box feel premium.

The Barron sunglasses have held up well in my tests. No doubt it will safeguard your eyes and improve your tech viewing while outdoors. I can safely recommend the sunglasses, especially for those who live in areas with tons of sunshine. Just make sure the shape suits your headshape.

Check out the official Gunnar Optiks website right here.

Note – The Gunnar Barron sunglasses were provided for the purpose of this review.