The Best Polarized Sunglasses in South Africa
Why the KDEAM KD332 Are the Best Polarized Sunglasses You Can Buy in South Africa Right Now
50 colours. R499. 7-layer polarized lenses. UV400 protection. A frame shape that suits almost every face. And a 30-day return policy so you can try them risk-free. The KDEAM KD332 is our best-selling sunglass for good reason — here's everything you need to know.
The Wayfarer: The Most Iconic Frame Shape in History
Before we talk about the KD332 specifically, it's worth understanding why the wayfarer frame shape has endured for over 70 years as one of the most universally loved designs in eyewear history.
The wayfarer silhouette — characterised by its distinctive trapezoidal frame, slightly wider at the top than the bottom, with bold temples — was first introduced in 1952. Within a decade it had become a cultural phenomenon. In 1961, Audrey Hepburn appeared in Breakfast at Tiffany's in a wayfarer-style frame that became one of the most iconic fashion moments of the 20th century. Through the 1960s, the style was adopted by some of the most influential figures of the era — musicians, actors, politicians, and artists alike. Bob Dylan wore them. James Dean wore them. Andy Warhol wore them. Even US President John F. Kennedy was photographed in them.
The 1980s brought a second wave. The wayfarer frame appeared in The Blues Brothers (1980) and was worn by Tom Cruise in Risky Business (1983) — the latter reportedly selling over 360,000 pairs that year alone. The style featured in The Breakfast Club, Miami Vice, and countless music videos of the decade. Michael Jackson wore them. Madonna wore them. Members of U2, Queen, and Depeche Mode wore them. The 1990s saw them in Reservoir Dogs and The Silence of the Lambs. Don Henley's 1984 song The Boys of Summer even immortalised them in lyrics.
The point is simple: no other sunglass frame shape has the cultural longevity, the versatility, or the universal flattery of the wayfarer silhouette. It has outlasted every trend, every decade, and every "next big thing" in eyewear. And the reason it keeps coming back is because it genuinely works — on almost every face shape, for almost every occasion.
Which Face Shapes Does the KD332 Suit?
This is the question most people ask before buying sunglasses online. The honest answer: the wayfarer frame is one of the most forgiving and universally flattering shapes in existence. Here's why it works across face types — and how it works for each:
KDEAM KD332 — Full Specifications
The KD332 isn't just a good-looking frame. Every component has been chosen for durability, optical quality, and comfort in South African conditions.
- 1× KDEAM KD332 polarized sunglasses
- 1× Limited Edition hard protective case
- 1× Limited Edition microfibre cleaning pouch
- 1× Limited Edition presentation box — makes a great gift
Why Polarized Lenses Matter — Especially in South Africa
South Africa sits at a latitude where the UV index regularly reaches extreme levels during summer, particularly between 10am and 3pm. Unlike many countries where sunglasses are primarily a fashion accessory, in South Africa quality eye protection is a genuine health necessity.
The KD332's 7-layer TAC polarized lens system is the core of its value. Here's what each element does for you:
50+ Colours — Find Yours
One of the most distinctive things about the KD332 collection is the sheer range of colour options — over 50 variants, all at the same R499 price. Whether you want the clean confidence of classic black, the boldness of a coloured frame, or something completely different, there's a KD332 for you.
The range spans classic neutrals, earthy tones, bold statement colours, gradient lenses, mirrored lenses, and everything in between. A few popular categories:
How the KD332 Compares
There are many polarized sunglasses on the market. Here's why the KD332 stands apart — particularly for South African buyers:
| Feature | KDEAM KD332 | Generic R100–R200 Sunglasses | Premium Brand Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polarized lenses | ✓ 7-layer TAC | ✗ Often tinted only | ✓ Yes |
| UV400 protection | ✓ 100% UVA & UVB | ✗ Often unclear or absent | ✓ Yes |
| Frame quality | ✓ High-grade polycarbonate | ✗ Basic plastic | ✓ Acetate / premium |
| Colour range | ✓ 50+ options | Limited | Limited per range |
| Price | ✓ R499 | R100–R200 | R1,500–R5,000+ |
| Local stock & fast delivery | ✓ 24–72 hrs SA-wide | Varies | Varies |
| 30-day return policy | ✓ No questions asked | Often none | Varies |
| 6-month warranty | ✓ Manufacturing defects | Often none | ✓ Yes |
| No customs duties | ✓ Ships from SA | ✓ Usually local | Risk if ordering from abroad |
The KD332 sits in a compelling position — genuine polarized UV400 optics at a fraction of premium brand pricing, with local stock, fast delivery, and a full return policy.
Why Buy From smael.co.za?
- Local SA stock — shipped from Kempton Park, Gauteng. No international borders, no customs delays.
- No customs duties — ever — the price you see is the price you pay. No surprise charges at the door.
- 24–72 hour delivery — to all major cities. Orders dispatched within 24 hours on weekdays.
- Free shipping over R600 — order two pairs and ship free.
- 30-day no-questions-asked returns — try them at home, return if they don't work for you.
- 6-month warranty — against manufacturing defects, with clear terms and local support.
- Real local support — WhatsApp 074 001 6851 or email, Monday to Friday.
- Premium packaging — arrives in a Limited Edition presentation box. Makes an excellent gift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the KD332 lenses genuinely polarized or just tinted?
Genuinely polarized. The KD332 features a 7-layer TAC (Tri-Acetate Cellulose) polarized lens — the polarization is built into the lens construction, not a surface coating. You can verify this yourself by looking at a reflective surface (like a car bonnet or wet road) through the lenses — the glare will disappear. Tinted lenses merely darken the image; they do not remove glare.
Will they fit my face? How do I know before buying?
The wayfarer frame is one of the most universally flattering shapes available — it works particularly well on oval, round, heart, and diamond face shapes, and reasonably well on almost all others. The KD332 has a total frame width of 145mm, which suits most adult faces. If you're unsure — simply order and try them at home. Our 30-day no-questions-asked return policy means there's no risk. Return unused pairs in original packaging within 30 days for a full refund.
Are they good for driving?
Yes — the KD332 is an excellent driving sunglass. The polarized filter eliminates windscreen reflection and road glare, which significantly reduces eye strain during long drives. The UV400 protection also blocks the harmful UV that passes through car windscreens. The non-slip rubber nose pads keep them secure even if you're leaning forward or moving. Just note: do not wear any sunglass (polarized or otherwise) in tunnels or very low-light conditions while driving.
Can I use them for fishing and watersports?
Absolutely — polarized lenses are the standard choice for fishing specifically because they cut the mirror glare off the water surface, allowing you to see through into the water below. The UV400 protection is equally important on the water, where UV reflects intensely off the surface. For active water sports, we recommend securing them with a strap to avoid losing them. Note that the KD332 frames are not rated as waterproof — avoid submersion.
What's the difference between the 50+ colour options?
All 50+ variants use the same high-quality 7-layer polarized TAC lens and polycarbonate frame. The differences are purely aesthetic — different frame colours, lens tints (grey, brown, green, mirror), and combinations. All colours are priced at R499. The lens tint colour can affect which conditions they perform best in: grey lenses are neutral and work well in most conditions; brown/amber lenses enhance contrast; green lenses are popular for fishing; mirror lenses provide additional glare reflection in very bright conditions.
Are they unisex? Can women wear them too?
Yes — the KD332 is a unisex design. The wayfarer frame has been worn by both men and women since its introduction in the 1950s and remains one of the few sunglass styles that genuinely works for all genders. The 50+ colour range includes options that work for all styles and preferences.
Do they come in a gift box?
Yes — every KD332 comes in a Limited Edition presentation box, with a hard protective case and microfibre cleaning pouch. No additional gift wrapping is needed — the packaging is presentation-quality out of the box. Free delivery on orders over R600 makes it even more convenient as a gift.
Ready to find your perfect pair?
Browse all 50+ colours of the KDEAM KD332 — delivered to your door in 24–72 hours from local SA stock. Free shipping on orders over R600. 30-day returns. No customs duties.