ArcaMax

If you've ever left a perfectly good pair of sunglasses in a restaurant bathroom, dropped them off a boat, or sat on them in your car, you know the sinking feeling: There goes $50, $75 -- maybe even $200 -- down the drain. I've learned (the hard way) that sunglasses don't have to cost a small fortune to protect your eyes from the sun and look good doing it. In fact, some of the best deals are hiding in places you'd never think to look. Let me show you.

THE HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE SURPRISE

One reader clued me in to a discovery that still makes me smile: protective eyewear sold in the hardware aisle. That's right -- look for "eye protection," not "sunglasses." These safety glasses are designed for people who work with saws, drills and other dangerous gadgets, which means they're tough as nails. Many are made of polycarbonate, the same material used in expensive sunglasses, and they block 99% of UVA and UVB rays. They're also wraparound style, so they hug your face and keep sunlight from sneaking in around the edges. Prices? Often under $15. The reader's ophthalmologist confirmed this hack: They're just as protective as high-end designer shades. You'll find them at Lowe's, Home Depot, Ace Hardware or even the tool aisle at Walmart.

PHARMACY TREASURE HUNT

Another unlikely stop is your neighborhood pharmacy. You'll often find racks of sunglasses priced at $10-$20 tucked between the reading glasses and the sunscreen. Here's the kicker: Many carry a sticker that says "UV 400." That means full protection against both UVA and UVB rays -- the same claim sunglass boutiques make, minus the boutique prices. They may not come with a fancy logo on the arm, but they'll keep your eyes safe while you're driving or lounging at the park.

THE SPORTING GOODS AISLE

Head to the fishing or hunting section of a sporting goods store. Anglers need polarized lenses to cut the glare off water, which just so happens to be the same glare that makes highway driving miserable. The brands aren't trendy, but the functionality is there. You can snag polarized sunglasses designed for outdoor sports for $25-$35 -- far less than the $150 price tags attached to "lifestyle" brands.

DISCOUNT FASHION STORES

You might already know about this one, but it's worth repeating: Discount fashion chains like T.J. Maxx, Marshalls and Ross often carry name-brand sunglasses at jaw-dropping markdowns. We're talking $12.99 for frames that were $59 just a few months earlier. The trick is persistence -- inventory changes constantly. It's like a treasure hunt but without the shovel.

GAS STATIONS AND TRUCK STOPS

This one may raise eyebrows, but hear me out. Long-haul truck drivers practically live behind the wheel, so gas stations and truck stops often stock surprisingly decent sunglasses. Many are polarized, most are durable, and they're designed for hours of sun exposure on the road. Prices hover around $20, sometimes less. You may not find high fashion, but if what you want is rugged and effective, this is a solid bet.

ONLINE ODDBALLS

We all know you can get sunglasses online, but the hidden gems aren't always on Amazon. Try safety-supply sites or uniform stores, where workers order protective eyewear in bulk. They often sell to the public too, with prices far below retail. Bonus: You'll find options you never see at the mall -- wraparound frames, tinted safety goggles and even mirrored lenses.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Expensive sunglasses are like expensive umbrellas -- sooner or later, you'll lose them, break them, or loan them to someone who "forgets" to return them. The good news is that your eyes don't care about the logo stamped on the frame. What matters is UV protection, durability and comfort. And you can get all three without emptying your wallet.

So the next time you're squinting into the sun, remember: You don't have to shell out designer prices for peace of mind. Whether you're in the tool aisle, the fishing section or your local pharmacy, chances are good there's a pair of sunglasses waiting for you -- surprisingly cheap, seriously protective and possibly right under your nose.

Find more frugal surprises at EverydayCheapskate.com/sunglasses.

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Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, "Ask Mary." This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book "Debt-Proof Living."

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