I wear sunglasses in pretty much any weather, but we’ve officially entered real sunglasses season—and just in time, I got to test a pair of VALLON Watchtower sunglasses.
Now, I’ve dropped, scratched, and lost more sunglasses than I care to admit. So typically, I look for something functional and affordable—something that won’t make me wince when I inevitably fumble them onto the pavement. But every now and then, it’s nice to have a splurge-worthy option, and the Watchtowers definitely fall into that category.
At $156, they’re not cheap, but they feel like they actually earn that price. It’s not just a fashion tax. The Watchtowers stand out with unique functionality and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Let’s talk about that. The frames are made from 85% recycled fishing nets (!). These are repurposed into nylon 6, a super durable, lightweight material that’s ideal for performance eyewear. That’s a pretty cool eco angle, and it adds some depth to the purchase.
Design-wise, the Watchtowers have a bold, retro, full-coverage 80s look. That might not be for everyone, and I usually steer away from the full-coverage vibe myself—but I actually didn’t mind it here, especially when running.
Performance-wise, they really delivered. They’re lightweight and easy on the eyes—literally. The lenses, made in collaboration with ZEISS, feature RiPel technology, which blocks 100% of UV rays, reduces glare (this I absolutely noticed), and repels airborne debris. Bonus for the clumsy among us: the lenses are also shatterproof.
Fit is customizable too, thanks to multiple silicone nose pad options, and the arms are designed to be more flexible toward the ends. That means a snug but comfortable fit that hugs your temples rather than squeezing them.
Sure, the style and the price point might be dealbreakers for some. Sunglasses are personal—face shape, preferences, and all that. But if the look speaks to you and you want something that’s functional, thoughtfully made, and built to last, I honestly think the VALLON Watchtowers are worth the investment.