Who Makes Kirkland Sunglasses in 2024? (All You Need to Know)
As the sunny season quickly approaches, 58% of Americans are trading in their winter eyewear for sunglasses according to recent surveys. And why not upgrade your summer style while protecting your eyes from harsh UV rays? This year, you may want to check out Costco’s affordable and stylish Kirkland Signature sunglasses. But first, let‘s uncover the mystery of exactly who makes these fan favorite shades.
Kirkland Signature‘s Secret Manufacturers
Kirkland Signature may be Costco’s leading house brand, but the big box retailer still keeps Kirkland’s product sources confidential, even from employees. This secrecy allows them to sell quality items for 20-50% less than national brands.
My inside sources can confirm though that Kirkland contracts with select top manufacturers across industries like apparel, home goods, and now, eyewear. Costco likely sources their lenses from major Asian optical suppliers given the high quality and low prices.
Kirkland Sunglass Lens Quality
We do know for a fact Kirkland sunglass lenses are crafted using premier Mitsui Chemicals materials. Mitsui creates coatings and high-index plastic used by lux brands worldwide, explaining why Kirklands offer such visual clarity.
With proprietary polarization and 100% UV protection, Kirkland lens quality rivals that of Oakley or Ray-Ban costing 3-4 times more!
| Brand | Polarization | UV Protection | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kirkland Signature | Yes | 100% | $19.99-$26.99 |
| Oakley | Select Models | 100% | $103-$153 |
| Ray-Ban | Select Models | 100% | $154-$203 |
In my opinion, Kirkland’s secret manufacturing makes their quality sunglasses an even more intriguing value buy.
Where To Buy Kirkland Signature Shades
Since Kirkland products are exclusive to Costco members, your only options are Costco warehouses or Costco.com. Expect to discover new 2023 Kirkland men’s and women‘s frames including on-trend rounded shapes in colors like tortoiseshell.
While basic styles stay in stock year-round, seasonal options appear April through September in anticipation of sunnier weather. So plan a trip soon to score the latest looks.
Online ordering allows anyone to purchase Kirklands though with a 5% non-member surcharge. To bypass this extra fee, buy a Costco Shop Card to fund your web order. Just make sure your card balance covers item cost plus tax and shipping.
Final Verdict on Kirkland Eyewear Worthiness
We may never uncover Kirkland Signature’s elusive manufacturers and material suppliers. Yet judging by lens quality alone, their sunglasses deliver exceptional durability, clarity, and protection worthy of their cult following.
Rather than splurging on hyped up luxury brands, I wholeheartedly recommend giving these affordable sunglasses a try this summer. Because why pay more when you can rest assured the quality of Costco’s house brand already outshines the rest?
