What Are Polarized Sunglasses?

What Are Polarized Sunglasses?

Do you wonder What Are Polarized Sunglasses? Do you find yourself squinting every time you step outside? Are your eyes sensitive to the harsh glare from the sun?

If so, then polarized sunglasses may be just what you need; not only do they protect your eyes from UV rays and glare, but they can also improve the clarity of vision. Polarized lenses are becoming increasingly popular due to how efficiently they reduce the amount of light that reaches our eyes for those who spend a lot of time in bright conditions or on water.

Whether you’re shopping for fashion or function, this blog post will help guide you through understanding What Polarized Sunglasses Are, their benefits and downsides, as well as tips on choosing the best pair to suit your lifestyle needs.

What Are Polarized Sunglasses?

Polarized sunglasses are specially designed to reduce glare from surfaces like water, snow and pavement.

Polarized lenses contain a special filter that blocks the intense horizontal light reflection which causes the glare. This type of lens also enhances color perception, making colors appear more vivid and clear.

The technology behind polarized lenses is based on the polarization of light. Sunlight reflects off of horizontal surfaces such as roads, bodies of water and shiny objects with horizontally-polarized light waves that can be quite overwhelming to our eyes.

Polarized lenses contain vertically-aligned polarizing material so they block out these horizontal wavelengths while allowing vertical wavelengths to pass through without any interference thus reducing glare significantly.

Polarized sunglasses are now available in a variety of styles including aviators, wrap-around frames, fashion frames and sport sunglasses.

Now you should know all about What Polarized Sunglasses Are. Whether you’re looking for style or function – or both – polarized lenses make it easy to find the perfect pair of sunglasses for any occasion.

How Do Polarized Lenses Work To Reduce Glare & Improve Visibility?

You should figure out how can polarized lenses increase visibility and minimize glare when learning about “what are polarized sunglasses”.

In actuality, light polarization is the key. Horizontally polarized light wavelengths from sunlight reflect off horizontal objects like highways and bodies of water, which can strain the eyes.

Because polarized glasses include polarizing material that is vertically oriented, they block out these horizontal wavelengths while permitting the vertical wavelengths to pass through unhindered, considerably decreasing glare.

Polarized lenses not only lessen glare but also the eye strain brought on by extended exposure to strong sunshine. When engaging in outdoor sports like boating, fishing, skiing, or golfing, they also improve color perception, resulting in sharper eyesight and more comfort.

Polarized sunglasses are now available in a variety of styles including aviators, wrap-around frames, fashion frames, and sport sunglasses. Whether you’re looking for style or function – or both – polarized lenses make it easy to find the perfect pair of sunglasses for any occasion.

Benefits Of Polarized Lenses Compared To Non-Polarized Lenses

After learning more about What Are Polarized Sunglasses, you should also know about the advantages of polarized lenses compared to non-polarized ones. Here, we mention some of the most typical benefits of polarized sunglasses.

1) Reduction of glare:

The best-case scenario is that glare is annoying. It may even be harmful in the worst situation. Studies show that when the sun is properly lighted to induce glare, road accidents, especially junction crashes, happen more frequently. You may improve your awareness of the surrounding environment and possibly prevent injuries and crashes by decreasing glare.

2) Clarity is better:

By utilizing the polarization filter, polarized sunglasses minimize the number of mirrors bouncing off surfaces. Therefore, with less reflected light entering your eyes, objects become clearer and more distinct. This can be incredibly beneficial when you are in a high-glare environment such as snowfields or roadways.    

3) Abundance of styles:

You may find polarized glasses in a variety of different styles ranging from aviators to wrap-around frames or fashion frames to sport sunglasses. This makes it convenient to find the perfect pair of sunglasses that suits both your style preference and function needs.

4) Protection from UV rays :

Polarized lenses block out harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays which can cause long-term damage to your eyes. Having UV protection in your sunglasses is especially important when participating in outdoor activities like skiing, golfing or boating.

5) Reduction of eye fatigue:

When you wear polarized sunglasses for an extended period of time, it can reduce tired eyes from the sun’s harsh glare and reflections. The polarized lenses block out the majority of reflected light which reduces strains on the eyes, making them more comfortable over a longer period.

6) Better color perception:

Polarized lenses increase color contrast and make colors appear much sharper than non-polarized lenses do. This makes it easier to distinguish between different colors and can provide great benefits when playing sports or driving in bright conditions.    

In addition to all these benefits, polarized sunglasses are also more durable than non-polarized lenses since they are less likely to be scratched or damaged.

Types Of Activities That Polarized Lenses Are Best Suited For

Polarized lenses are especially beneficial when engaging in outdoor activities like fishing or boating, as they reduce glare from the sun’s reflective rays on the water. They also provide sharp vision and better color perception for activities involving a lot of sunlight such as skiing, golfing or cycling.

Polarized sunglasses are also great for driving, as they reduce eye strain from the bright headlights and street lights at night.

Finally, polarized lenses can be helpful even indoors if there is any type of high-glare environment such as near a computer screen or in an office with lots of fluorescent lighting.

Regardless of your activity, polarized lenses can help you enjoy a clearer view and improved comfort no matter where you go.

Different Factors To Consider When Choosing The Right Pair Of Polarized Sunglasses

Choosing the right pair of polarized sunglasses is very important because it can provide better vision, comfort and protection for your eyes. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right pair of polarized sunglasses:

1) Style:

The style of the frames should suit the activities that you do. If you are engaging in sports like golfing or skiing, then wrap-around frames or sport sunglasses may be more suitable. Likewise, if you prefer a stylish look then aviators or fashion frames would make a great choice.

2) Lens material:

Different frame materials will also affect how well they protect your eyes from reflected light. Polycarbonate lenses are lightweight yet durable and offer great protection against UV rays and reflections. Plastic lenses are also lightweight and very affordable, however they may not be as durable as the polycarbonate lenses.

3) Lens color:

The color of the lenses can also affect how much glare is reduced and how well colors appear. Generally speaking, darker tinted lenses will block out more light and reduce glare better than lighter tinted ones. However, lighter tints often provide better clarity since they don’t distort colors as much.

4) UV protection:

It is important to make sure the lenses you choose provide adequate ultraviolet (UV) protection. Look for lenses that are labeled “100% UV protection” or have a label indicating they block out 99 to 100% of UVA & UVB rays.

5) Price:

Finally, price can be a major factor when choosing polarized sunglasses since they tend to be more expensive than non-polarized ones. However, generally speaking, higher quality polarized glasses cost more but will usually last longer and offer better protection and clarity than cheaper models.

It is also worth considering if special features like an anti-reflective coating or scratch resistance are included in the purchase price.

No matter which pair of polarized sunglasses you end up choosing, remember that they can provide eye protection and improved vision in a variety of environments. Wearing the right pair of polarized sunglasses can be invaluable for outdoor activities and daily life.

Tips For Caring For Your Polarized Sunglasses To Ensure They Last Longer

• Clean regularly:

Polarized lenses are especially prone to getting smudged, dust and dirt. To prevent scratches, clean the lenses with a microfiber cloth and lightly dampen it with a lens cleaning solution. Avoid using your shirt or paper towels as this may scratch the lens coating.

• Store in a case:

Keep your sunglasses in a protective case when not in use. This will help protect them from scratches, dirt and other damage. Make sure to choose a case that is soft and padded to ensure maximum protection for your sunglasses.

• Avoid storing in hot environments:

Storing polarized lenses in excessively warm or cold environments can cause them to warp or melt. Try and store them at room temperature away from direct sunlight or sources of heat and cold.

• Avoid dropping:

Dropping your polarized sunglasses may cause severe damage to the lenses and frames. If you must drop them, make sure it’s on a soft surface such as carpet or grass.

• Use a cleaning solution:

When cleaning your sunglasses, use a lens cleaning solution rather than water alone. This will help remove stubborn dirt and debris without causing scratches to the lens coating.

Following these tips can help extend the life of your polarized sunglasses and keep them looking great for many years to come.

How To Clean Your Polarized Sunglasses?

1) Start by gently wiping the lenses with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust particles.

2) After that, use a damp microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution to wipe away any remaining dirt or smudges.

3) Rinse the lenses in lukewarm water after cleaning and make sure to avoid using hot water as this can damage the coating of the polarized lenses.

4) Finally, dry your sunglasses off with a clean, soft cloth before putting them away for storage.

By following these steps you will be able to ensure your polarized sunglasses are kept clean and free from smudges and scratches for long-lasting protection. Additionally, always store your sunglasses in a protective case when not in use to ensure maximum care.

Popular Brands Of Polarized Sunglasses On The Market

After knowing “What Are Polarized Sunglasses”, you should consider the brands if wanting to buy some. Here are some popular brands for you:

1) Oakley: One of the most popular brands for polarized sunglasses is Oakley. They offer a wide range of styles and performance-focused designs to suit any activity level.

2) Maui Jim: Another well-known brand is Maui Jim, which specializes in providing high quality polarized lenses with excellent UV protection and clarity.

3) Ray-Ban: A classic choice for stylish polarized sunglasses, Ray-Ban offers a variety of frames that come in both plastic and metal materials.

4) Serengeti: For those looking for an extra bit of style, Serengeti features bright colors and bold looks to fit any personality.

5) Costa Del Mar: Last but not least, Costa Del Mar offers a wide range of frames with high-quality polarized lenses and plenty of color options.

No matter your personal style or activity level, there are many brands out there to choose from when it comes to picking the perfect pair of polarized sunglasses. With so many choices available on the market today, you can find the perfect pair for any occasion.

FAQs

When do polarized sunglasses function the best?

Polarized sunglasses function best in conditions where the sun is shining brightly off of surfaces such as water, pavement and sand. The polarization helps reduce glare from these surfaces and increases clarity for better visibility.

Polarized lenses also perform well on overcast days, as they can block out some of the blue light that can be scattered due to clouds. This makes them a great choice for activities such as fishing, boating and driving. Additionally, polarized lenses are excellent at reducing eye fatigue when worn for long periods of time outdoors. 

When should I avoid wearing polarized sunglasses?

Polarized sunglasses should be avoided in cases where you need to see a clear image through the lens. This includes activities such as skiing or snowboarding, as the lenses can create a distorted view of the terrain. Additionally, wearing polarized lenses at night is not recommended, as they can reduce your visibility due to the lack of light. 

What are the differences between polarized & non-polarized sunglasses?

Polarized lenses contain a special filter that helps reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water or pavement. This filter absorbs and filters out the reflected light, leaving your eyes protected and allowing for better color perception and clarity.

Non-polarized lenses do not provide this filtering effect, often resulting in glare that can hinder your vision.

Polarized lenses are also designed to block out UV rays, helping protect your eyes from harmful sun exposure. Additionally, polarized lenses tend to be more scratch resistant than non-polarized lenses, making them ideal for daily wear. 

How can you tell if sunglasses are polarized?

There are a few ways to tell if sunglasses are polarized. One way is to take the glasses and look at them through a LCD screen such as an iPhone, tablet or laptop screen. If the lenses darken when you look at them from different angles, this indicates that they are polarized lenses.

Another method to confirm polarization is by using a Polaroid filter test card. If your lenses pass this test, you can be sure that they are indeed polarized. It’s important to keep in mind that not all brands or styles of sunglasses will have polarized lenses even if they advertise it, so it’s always best to double-check before purchasing any new pair of shades.

Finally, for quality assurance purposes, you can often check with the manufacturer of the sunglasses to confirm if they are polarized.

Why do polarized lenses sometimes make everything appear darker?

Polarized lenses are designed to reduce glare and reflections, which can cause things to appear darker than they normally would without sunglasses. This is especially true in brighter environments, where the lenses block out more of the sun’s rays.

In addition, some polarized lenses have a tint that can darken your vision even further. For this reason, it’s important to consider how light or dark you want your vision to be when choosing a pair of polarized sunglasses.

Conclusion

Now you should know What Are Polarized Sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses can provide a variety of benefits compared to non-polarized glasses. They reduce glare and eye strain, increase clarity and color perception, protect against UV rays, and have various styles available to choose from.

It’s also important to remember that polarized lenses are more durable and last longer than their non-polarized counterparts. With so many advantages, it’s no surprise that polarized sunglasses have become the go-to choice for avid outdoor enthusiasts!

So, after reading our blog about What Polarized Sunglasses Are, why not consider getting yourself a pair today? You won’t regret it! As always, be sure to check with your optometrist before making any major changes to your eyewear. 

References:

3 Ways to Tell if Sunglasses Are Polarized

How to Clean Polarized Glasses: 7 Steps (with Pictures)

Polaroid Eyewear

Choosing the right sunglasses

Sunglasses Safety Fact Sheet – Texas Department of Insurance