When it comes to purchasing a new pair of sunglasses, the options can be overwhelming. With so many different types of lenses and frames to choose from, it can be difficult to determine what will work best for you. One type of sunglasses that you may have heard of is polarized sunglasses. But what are they, and why should you consider investing in a pair? In this article, we’ll explore what polarized sunglasses are, how they work, and five reasons why you should consider purchasing a pair.
What Are Polarized Sunglasses?
Polarized sunglasses are a type of eyewear that have a special filter in the lenses to reduce glare from reflective surfaces. They are particularly useful for activities such as driving, fishing, and skiing, where glare can be a major issue. The polarizing filter in the lenses blocks out horizontally polarized light, which is the type of light that creates glare. This helps to reduce eye strain and fatigue, as well as improve visual clarity.
The Science Behind Polarized Sunglasses
To understand how polarized sunglasses work, it’s important to first understand how light waves work. Light waves are made up of electric and magnetic fields that oscillate in different directions. When light is reflected off a surface, such as water or a road, the light waves become polarized in a specific direction. This creates glare, which can be especially problematic for people who spend a lot of time around water or in bright sunlight.
Polarized sunglasses use a special filter that blocks out horizontally polarized light waves. This means that only vertically polarized light can pass through the lenses, which helps to reduce glare. The filter in polarized sunglasses is made up of a special material that contains molecules that are aligned in a specific direction. When light passes through the filter, only light waves that are aligned with the molecules can pass through, while horizontally polarized light waves are blocked out.
5 Reasons To Invest In Polarized Sunglasses
Reduced Glare
One of the biggest benefits of polarized sunglasses is their ability to reduce glare. Glare can be a major issue when driving or spending time around water or snow, as it can be blinding and make it difficult to see. Polarized sunglasses help to reduce glare, making it easier to see clearly and reducing eye strain and fatigue.
Enhanced Visual Clarity
In addition to reducing glare, polarized sunglasses can also improve visual clarity. By blocking out horizontally polarized light waves, polarized lenses help to reduce visual noise, making it easier to see fine details and colors. This can be particularly useful for people who have difficulty seeing in bright sunlight or who need to be able to see details clearly.
Better Eye Protection
Polarized sunglasses also provide better eye protection than regular sunglasses. The polarizing filter in the lenses helps to block out harmful UV rays, which can be damaging to your eyes. This can help to reduce your risk of developing cataracts or other eye conditions that can be caused by exposure to UV radiation.
Improved Contrast
Another benefit of polarized sunglasses is their ability to improve contrast. Polarized lenses can help to enhance contrast, making it easier to see in different lighting conditions. This can be especially useful for activities such as skiing or driving, where it’s important to be able to see clearly in varying lighting conditions.
Reduced Eye Strain
Finally, polarized sunglasses can help to reduce eye strain and fatigue. By reducing glare and improving visual clarity, polarized lenses make it easier for your eyes to focus on what you’re looking at. This can help to reduce eye strain and fatigue, particularly if you spend a lot of time outside in bright sunlight.
Different Types Of Polarized Sunglasses
If you’re interested in purchasing a pair of polarized sunglasses, there are several different types to choose from. One option is prescription polarized sunglasses, which are designed to meet the specific needs of people who wear prescription glasses. These can be made with polarized lenses and can also include additional features such as anti-reflective coatings and scratch-resistant coatings.
Another option is clip-on polarized sunglasses, which can be attached to your existing eyeglasses. These are a good choice if you don’t want to purchase a separate pair of sunglasses but still want the benefits of polarized lenses. Clip-on sunglasses are also available in a range of styles and colors, so you can find something that suits your personal style.
Finally, over-the-counter polarized sunglasses are a good option for people who don’t need prescription lenses. These can be found at most eyewear retailers and come in a range of styles and price points. Over-the-counter polarized sunglasses are a good choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still provides the benefits of polarized lenses.
How To Choose The Right Polarized Sunglasses
In order to choose the best polarized sunglasses, there are several factors to consider.
First, you’ll want to look for sunglasses that are labeled as polarized. This will ensure that you’re getting the full benefits of polarized lenses. You’ll also want to look for sunglasses that provide 100% protection from UV rays, as this will help to protect your eyes from damage.
It’s also important to consider the shape and size of the sunglasses. Sunglasses that fit well and provide good coverage will be more effective at reducing glare and protecting your eyes from UV rays. Finally, consider the color of the lenses, as different colors can be more effective at reducing glare in different types of lighting conditions.
In conclusion, polarized sunglasses are a great investment for anyone who spends time outside in bright sunlight or around reflective surfaces. They provide a range of benefits, including reduced glare, improved visual clarity, better eye protection, improved contrast, and reduced eye strain. Just remember to look for sunglasses that are labeled as polarized, provide 100% UV protection, and fit well to ensure that you’re getting the full benefits of polarized lenses.