Stay stylish outdoors while protecting your eyes with women’s and mens polarized sunglasses. Discover how these sunglasses compare with other styles and find out where you can turn to a cool, safe look.
How Polarized Lenses Work
The main goal of polarized sunglasses is to protect your eyes and reduce glare. They do this by scattering light before it hits your eye. The coating is applied during the manufacturing process, so you don’t have to worry about it affecting the style of your sunglasses.
A polarized coating reflects some light in multiple angles to filter out any bright reflections. A vertical filter is applied to lenses, because sunlight glare is usually horizontal. This coating can be added to prescription lenses or any style of traditional sunglasses for improved outdoor protection.
Benefits of Polarized Lenses
Go for a polarized lens for improved outdoor comfort. If you’re headed to the beach or going anywhere else where you’ll be exposed to high levels of sunlight reflection, polarized lenses reduce the painful glare and reflection.
In these situations, you can enjoy clearer vision and improved color contrast. The result is less color distortion compared with other sunglasses options. You can see clearly, without squinting due to glare.
For most outdoor adventures, glare can quickly lead to eyestrain. If you find yourself squinting while taking a walk, going to the beach or fishing, polarized lenses can help.
Times You Shouldn’t Wear Polarized Lenses
There are many advantages to this lens coating, but other times when it’s best to leave them at home or in your protective case. If you’re going to be looking at LCD screens or out at night, then be sure you have a pair of eyewear that isn’t polarized.
Polarization darkens lenses, so it’s only available for sunglasses. You can’t find clear prescription glasses or reading glasses that have the same glare protection. This coating is a natural choice for sunglasses, but not so great for low-light or indoor situations.
The coating makes it difficult to view an LCD screen. This can be frustrating if you’re looking at a screen, but dangerous if looking at your dashboard while driving. Another driving danger is low-light situations, where polarized lenses reduce the amount of light you can see.
Differences Between Polarized and UV-Protected Lenses
Both polarization and UV protection are great sunglasses features if you’re going to be spending time outside, but they aren’t the same. UV protection is another key feature to look for when shopping for outdoor eyewear, but don’t confuse these features.
Polarization is all about reducing glare from reflections and direct sunlight. UV protection, however, blocks 99% or more of UV rays from the sun. These powerful rays, over time, can lead to eye damage, cataracts and even temporary blindness.
Why You Should Get Lenses That Are Both Polarized & Have UV Protection
Look for a pair of glasses that offers both polarized and UV-protected lenses for a comfortable, safe outdoor experience. You don’t have to choose between UV-protected and polarized sunglasses for women or men, so shop online for a pair that offers both in a style you love.