Frederick Jace
There are many different reasons people prefer polarised lenses. They come in many shapes and sizes and offer a higher degree of protection compared to regular eyewear. Polarised glasses are preferred in sports such as cycling, running, triathlons, and many other outdoor sports activities. You can wear polarised sunglasses as protection for everyday travel to help block glare from the sun and any reflecting lights.
Polarised lenses are better than other lenses at blocking glare from light reflecting off of flat surfaces. Be it roads, walls, or water surfaces, polarised sunglasses are far better for protection than regular tinted glasses.
What Does Polarised Mean?
Polarised lenses have a one-of-a-kind filter specially designed to block reflected light from an intense source to reduce glare and eye discomfort.
The science behind it is that light from the sun comes down to earth, scatters in all directions. However, when light is reflected on a flat surface, the light becomes focused or polarised — meaning the reflected beam travels more uniformly and consistently. This can make the light uncomfortable, annoying, harmful, and so intense that it can damage a person’s eyesight over long periods of exposure.
Using polarised lenses decreases the reflection’s glare and allows for a more comfortable time outdoors. It can bounce reflection off in different angles and also blocks direct light from passing through. You can think of polarised lenses as light filters that protect your eyes.
What Are the Benefits?
People who regularly use polarised sunglasses experience clearer vision, especially in very bright lights. They have better contrast and reduced colour distortion.
The reduction of reflection and glare can help reduce eyestrain.
Many sunglasses these days are designed with polarised lenses. Although ultraviolet (UV) protection is still very popular, many sunglasses also come with polarised lenses to add an extra layer of protection.
What Is the Difference Between UV Protection & Polarised Lenses?
To set the record straight, UV and polarised lenses are entirely different from one another.
Polarised lenses do not have UV protection unless they are designed to have it, so it’s to assume glasses without UV protection labels don’t have that. UV protection lenses, on the other hand, offer less protection from reflected glare and light beams.
UV protection lenses are designed to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, helping reduce the risk of eye conditions like cataracts.
The good news is that most performance sunglasses these days, especially those offered by designer brands, provide both benefits, thanks to technological breakthroughs.
How Do You Recognise Polarised Sunglasses?
Polarised lenses are easier to spot due to their darker tint and reflective surface. However, it’s better to proactively read the label to ensure you are buying polarised sunglasses.
If you want to test a pair of glasses for polarised lenses, try staring at an LCD screen while you wear them. The sunglasses might be polarised if the screen appears dark or black.
Important Takeaways
Polarised sunglasses are an excellent choice for people who love the outdoors. Not only can it reduce the glare and bright reflection of lights, but it can also improve the clarity of a person’s vision in a very bright environment.
At the end of the day, always bear in mind that sunglasses shouldn’t be the be-all and end-all of protecting your eyes’ health. Even with glasses on, avoid staring directly into the sun, limit your screen time and make sure to get the appropriate amount of rest.
