Does pricier always mean better when choosing a pair of sunglasses? There are hundreds of styles and brands, from under $20 to well over $400. Is it worth paying hundreds when you can get similar glasses for a fraction of the cost? Do you get better eye protection?

According to the American Optometric Association, ultraviolet radiation from the sun can damage your eyes as well as your skin. The AOA recommends looking for sunglasses with a minimum of 99 percent to 100 percent protection from UV-A and UV-B radiation to shield your eyes from sun damage.

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No need to spend lots of money on sunglasses as long as they have UV protection.

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This minimum UV protection can be found in almost all sunglasses in every price range. The Sunglass Association of America, a nonprofit organization representing the sunglasses industry, says the vast majority of sunglasses sold through reputable stores provide complete UV protection.

"You don't have to spend lots of money to get the UV protection you need," SAA representative Marty Kleinman said. "There is not a 100 percent correlation between high price and high performance. Often, a $30 pair of sunglasses can provide the same UV protection of sunglasses costing many hundreds of dollars more."

To make sure sunglasses have sufficient UV protection, Kleinman recommends looking closely at the labeling and tags on the glasses. Many, but not all, brands print their UV protection on their labeling.

If there is no UV information, Kleinman advises buying from a reputable store with knowledgeable sales associates who can provide information about the sunglasses.

Since most low-end sunglasses usually provide the same UV protection as the high-end ones, why pay more? According to Kleinman, trendy styles, the appeal of designer names and sometimes higher quality are all reasons shoppers may want to splurge on expensive sunglasses.

Jarrod Sanders, owner of UV 400 Sunglasses and SurfTown USA stores, said that while UV protection is usually the same in all the sunglasses he sells, there are some differences in quality.

The more expensive glasses are made to last longer than the inexpensive ones. The hinges on the high-end glasses hold up longer and the frames are sturdier.

The lenses on inexpensive sunglasses are acrylic and can scratch easily, while the lenses on higher-priced models are made of polycarbonate or glass, both more scratch-resistant materials.

Many of the sunglasses in the $100-plus price range carry warranties. For example, Costa Del Mar, a brand Sanders sells in his SurfTown USA stores, provides a lifetime warranty against manufacturer's defects.

"It really depends on what the customer wants and how well they take care of their sunglasses," Sanders said. "Sunglasses are easily lost or broken. The inexpensive ones are good for customers who can't keep track of their glasses and know they're going to lose them often."

Sanders estimates that most people replace inexpensive sunglasses twice a year or more. People who buy high-end sunglasses usually replace them after a year (even though they may still be in good shape) to keep up with changing fashion.

UV 400 Sunglasses stores carry inexpensive sunglasses and can be found in the Mall of Georgia, Lenox Square, Town Center, Gwinnett Place and Northlake Mall.

SurfTown USA stores sell the more expensive brands of sunglasses and are in the following areas: The kiosk at Mall of Georgia (a Sunglass Warehouse location affiliated with SurfTown), Town Center mall and Avenue at Forsyth.

Of course, you'll find sunglasses at other retailers, from convenience stores to discount stores to department stores to pharmacies, from very inexpensive to splurge prices. Just keep the Sunglass Association of America's tips in mind when you shop.

SHADES SHOULD BE MORE THAN COOL

The Sunglass Association of America offers some shopping tips to consumers who are looking for sunglasses.

• Shop at reputable stores. Sunglasses bought at flea markets and street corners may not have adequate UV protection.

• Look for 100 percent UV-A and UV-B protection.

• Try on lots of pairs and carefully consider the look and fit. Sunglasses should be comfortable.

• Don't underestimate the importance of style. If you're not happy with the way your sunglasses look, chances are you won't wear them very often.

• Look through the lenses in light and dark settings. Lenses should be dark enough to allow you to see comfortably in bright sunlight, but not so dark that you won't be able to see clearly in low light.

Additionally, the American Optometric Association recommends:

• Polycarbonate lenses if you participate in work or sports that could injure your eyes. Those lenses are the most impact- resistant.

• Wrap-around frames if you're in the sun a lot. They can provide more protection from UV radiation.

For more information about sunglasses:

• Sunglass Association of America, www.sunglassassociation.com

• American Optometric Association, www.aoa.org