Dealing with harsh glare from sunlight can be both frustrating and dangerous. Polarized sunglasses offer a solution by reducing glare and eyestrain, making outdoor activities safer and more comfortable.
How Do They Work?
Polarized lenses contain a special chemical filter that works like venetian blinds for your eyes. While regular sunlight scatters in all directions, the polarized filter only allows vertical light waves to pass through while blocking horizontal glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, or car hoods. This results in crisper, clearer vision with reduced glare.
Best Uses for Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized lenses excel during outdoor activities where glare is common:
-
Water activities (fishing, boating) - helps you see below the water's surface
-
Beach outings - reduces glare from water and sand
-
Golfing - improves visibility on fairways
-
Winter sports - reduces snow glare in most conditions
When to Avoid Polarized Lenses
While versatile, polarized sunglasses aren't ideal for:
-
Viewing LCD screens (car dashboards, ATMs, phones)
-
Situations where spotting glare is important (detecting ice while driving)
-
Night driving
Important Note
Don't confuse UV protection with polarization. While both features protect your eyes, they serve different purposes. Look specifically for "polarized" on the label if you want anti-glare protection.
Talk to your eye care provider at Mid Atlantic Eye Physicians to find the right polarized sunglasses for your needs.