Protect your eyes from the sun's glare with polarized sunglasses.
The sun's glare is blinding. You reach for your shades, slip them on - and then you realize you still can't see. If you've ever had this experience, chances are that your sunglasses have nonpolarized lenses. In fact, though most people tend to shop for sunglasses based on style, your sunglasses should be much more than a fashion statement. The health of your eyes may depend on springing for polarized lenses.
Polarized Vs. Nonpolarized
Nearly every pair of sunglasses you buy gives your eyes at least some protection from the sun's harsh rays. The level of protection varies widely, but even the most bargain basement pair of tinted lenses offers a bit of shade for your eyes. Polarized lenses take what nonpolarized lenses do -- protect your eyes from harmful UV rays -- a step further. Polarized lenses are specially designed to protect your eyes from horizontal glare created by the sun. Think of the glare created when the sun hits the hood of your car. With a nonpolarized lens, that glare will bounce right at you. Although it will be dimmed compared to looking at it without any sunglasses, it will still shine in your eyes. Polarized lenses filter out that glare, protecting your eyes and making it easier to see.
Polarization Benefits
Polarized lenses give your eyes better protection against harmful rays. Beyond that, polarized sunglasses give you better vision in bright sunlight. Nonpolarized lenses dim everything you see, so you lose some definition. Polarized lenses filter light more effectively, keeping your vision crisp. The antiglare effect makes driving on a sunny day much easier, since the reflection of the sun off your car and the cars around you won't be an issue. Polarized lenses can make seeing during water sports easier, too, since the sun's reflection on the water won't cloud your vision.
Cost Concerns
Generally, polarized lenses cost more than nonpolarized lenses. Several other factors come into play with sunglass pricing, however, including brand name, so you may find polarized lenses in an off brand that are less expensive than designer nonpolarized glasses.
The Downside of Polarized
Although polarized lenses have many benefits, they aren't for everyone. Some ski enthusiasts find that they make seeing the ups and downs of the hills harder than nonpolarized lenses. Others just don't do enough driving or outside sports to make springing for polarized lenses worth the extra cost. If you're unsure whether to polarize or not polarize, your optometrist can give you some specific advice. A specialty sunglass retailer can also help you navigate the decision making process.
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