As most water enthusiasts know, one property of water is its highly reflective quality. Polarized sunglasses are great for blocking glare from the sun, which is magnified when it reflects off a large body of water or snow. They not only reduce blinding, but also block harmful UV rays from the sun. In fact, the benefits of polarized sunglasses are so great that wholesale manufacturers are using polarized lenses in more of their products. They are increasingly available in designer sunglasses as well. Offered in all styles, sizes and price ranges, polarized sunglasses are widely available to everyone.
Outdoor enthusiasts love polarized sunglasses. They cut glare in all conditions, even at night. Lightweight frames are durable and resilient. Temple grips and nose pads keep sunglasses from falling off during cycling, running, skiing or other outdoor activity. There are countless frame styles, colors, and tints to choose from. Many people choose designer sunglasses because they prefer the stylish frames and designer labels. Different lens tints are available to increase visual clarity and performance. Some people even wear special polarized sunglasses attached to their prescription glasses.
Polarized sunglasses work by filtering the specific light waves that cause glare. Highly reflective surfaces emit horizontal light waves. Polarized lenses allow only vertically polarized light to reach the eye, substantially reducing the glare while allowing crystal-clear detail. Polarized filters are made of a chemical film that is applied to the surface of the lens. The filter is composed of molecules that align with one another in a horizontal fashion, thus absorbing horizontal light waves.
A great benefit of polarized sunglasses is that they will protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. There are three types of UV rays: UVC, UVB and UVA. Most UVC rays are blocked by the ozone, but UVB and UVA rays can damage the eyes. UVB rays are linked to pinguecula, a yellowish growth on the whites of the eyes and pterygium, a growth that can cover the cornea. Another complication is photokeratitis, a painful inflammation of the cornea. UVA rays are linked to cataracts and macular degeneration. Because of the dangers UV rays pose to your eyes, it is imperative to find polarized sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection.
Children should start wearing polarized sunglasses early. It is estimated that 80% of our lifetime UV exposure occurs before age eighteen. Furthermore, children’s eyes are delicate and more susceptible to the adverse effects of UV rays. Nowadays, there are plentiful selections for children’s sunglasses, even designer sunglasses.
Once you choose your polarized sunglasses, you will want to protect them. Protecting your polarized sunglasses from loss or damage is a good idea. Start with a sunglasses case. Some cases have snaps so you can attach it to your backpack or jacket. Decide if you need an eyewear cord. They are a good idea for frequent wear and removal of your eyewear. It would even benefit you to buy an extra pair of sunglasses. Once you have your sunglasses and accessories, you can enjoy everything under the sun!