Polarized sunglasses are a type of eyewear that have lenses treated with a special filter to reduce glare. Understanding how polarized lenses work and when they’re most useful can help you decide if polarized sunglasses are right for you. Here’s what you need to know.
How Do Polarized Sunglasses Work?
When sunlight reflects off horizontal surfaces, it creates glare. When that glare hits your eyes, it can interfere with your vision. Polarized lenses have a chemical filter applied to the lenses. This filter consists of tiny crystals that allow only light that’s polarized in a vertical direction to pass through. Horizontal light rays are blocked, reducing the glare from surfaces in your surroundings, such as water, snow and car windshields.
When Are Polarized Sunglasses Useful?
Polarized sunglasses are helpful in environments with intense glare, such as water surfaces, snow-covered landscapes and roads. Wearing polarized sunglasses can help you see more clearly while driving, fishing, golfing, skiing, sailing and playing other outdoor sports. Polarized sunglasses can also be helpful for people who suffer from eye strain or headaches caused by glare.
Are Polarized Sunglasses Worth It?
Whether or not polarized sunglasses are worth it depends on your individual needs. The reduced glare can minimize the impacts of eye strain, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors in sunny conditions. If you spend minimal time in bright sunlight, you may not need polarized lenses.
Are All Sunglasses Polarized?
Not all sunglasses are polarized. Most sunglasses are made with non-polarized lenses. However, several brands offer polarized sunglasses. You can find polarized sunglasses at your local optical store.
Do Polarized Lenses Provide UV Protection?
Sunglasses with polarized lenses don’t necessarily provide total protection from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays can damage your eyes and cause several eye problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration and even cancer. Therefore, be sure to purchase sunglasses that specifically state they provide 100 per cent UVA and UVB protection.
What Are the Drawbacks of Polarized Sunglasses?
Polarized sunglasses have a few downsides. Because LCD screens emit polarized light, your polarized lenses can make viewing your smartphone and computer more difficult. They can also make seeing underwater difficult because water reflects polarized light.
Designer Sunglasses in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and B.C.
Our partner locations offer an impressive selection of designer sunglasses with polarized lenses and 100 per cent UV protection. An optician can guide you through our selection to ensure you get the best sunglasses for your lifestyle. We have optical stores in Alberta, Saskatchewan, B.C. and Ontario. Visit us and try on our designer sunglasses today.