When shopping for sunglasses, you may come across the term “polarized.” But what does that really mean? Polarized lenses are designed to reduce glare from reflective surfaces, making them ideal for activities like driving, fishing, or skiing. If you’re wondering how to tell if your sunglasses are polarized, here are four easy ways to check!
1. Test with a Phone or Computer Screen
A quick and easy way to check if your sunglasses are polarized is by using a phone or computer screen. Simply hold your sunglasses in front of the screen and tilt them slowly. If the screen appears to darken or the image distorts as you tilt the glasses, that means your sunglasses have polarized lenses. This happens because polarized lenses block certain types of light, and digital screens emit light in a way that interacts with the filter.
2. Look for the Label
The easiest way to tell if your sunglasses are polarized is to look for a label or sticker. Many sunglasses will have a small “polarized” label on the lenses or packaging, especially if they are marketed as polarized sunglasses. If the glasses don’t have a label, there’s still a chance they could be polarized, so try the other tests to confirm.
3. Use Another Pair of Polarized Sunglasses
If you have a second pair of polarized sunglasses, you can perform a quick test. Hold both pairs of sunglasses together, and slowly rotate one pair while looking through the lenses. If the lenses become much darker or almost completely black at certain angles, both pairs are polarized. This happens because the lenses block certain light at different angles, which creates that darkening effect.
4. Check for Reduced Glare on Reflective Surfaces
Polarized lenses are designed to reduce glare, especially from surfaces like water, roads, or snow. To test if your sunglasses are polarized, step outside and look at a body of water or a wet road. If you notice the glare is significantly reduced compared to normal sunglasses, your glasses are likely polarized.
Why You Should Consider Polarized Sunglasses
Now that you know how to identify polarized lenses, it’s important to understand the benefits and when to use them. Here’s why polarized sunglasses can be a game-changer for your eye care and outdoor activities:
1. Outdoor Activities and Sports
Polarized sunglasses are particularly beneficial for people who participate in outdoor activities. Whether you’re skiing, fishing, boating, or simply enjoying a sunny day at the beach, polarized lenses provide significant glare reduction. This enhances clarity and improves safety by helping you see better in bright and reflective environments.
2. Driving Safety
Driving on sunny days can be challenging due to glare from roads and other vehicles. Polarized lenses reduce this glare, making driving safer and less tiring. This makes them an excellent choice for long drives or commutes.
3. Eye Protection
UV radiation is harmful to the eyes and can cause long-term damage, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Polarized sunglasses that include UV protection offer an added layer of defense against UV rays. Look for sunglasses with UV 400 protection for nearly 100% UV protection.
Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses: What’s the Difference?
While both types of sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays, polarized sunglasses offer extra protection against glare. However, non-polarized sunglasses can still block UV light and protect against sunburn.
When Should You Avoid Polarized Sunglasses?
Polarized lenses are not suitable for every situation. They can reduce visibility when looking at certain screens, like those of ATMs or GPS devices, which may be challenging in certain settings. Polarized lenses are also not recommended for night driving since they reduce the visibility of objects in low-light conditions.
If you interested to know more about Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses, then also read: Polarized vs non polarized sunglasses: which one you should pick?
Choosing the Right Polarized Sunglasses for You
When choosing polarized sunglasses, consider the following factors:
- Fit and Comfort: Ensure your sunglasses fit comfortably on your face, as a poor fit can affect your vision and comfort.
- Lens Color: Different lens colors offer different benefits. For instance, gray lenses reduce brightness without distorting colors, while yellow or orange lenses enhance contrast in low-light conditions.
- Lens Material: Choose lenses made from durable materials like polycarbonate or Trivex for impact resistance and long-lasting performance.
Conclusion
Polarized sunglasses are more than just a stylish accessory; they offer superior vision, comfort, and protection, making them an excellent choice for anyone who spends time outdoors. By understanding how to tell if your sunglasses are polarized, you can make an informed decision about the eyewear that best suits your needs. Whether you’re driving, fishing, or simply enjoying a sunny day, polarized sunglasses can significantly improve your visual experience and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Don’t compromise on your eye health. Invest in a quality pair of polarized sunglasses today!