Polarised sunglasses are a type of sunglasses with polarised lenses that help reduce glare from reflective surfaces, such as snow, water and roads, while protecting the eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Although they appear to be a regular pair of sunnies, polarised sunglasses have a polarising filter on their lenses that changes how light reaches the eyes. They intercept reflections and block glare from horizontal surfaces, improving visual comfort and colour contrast. As these sunglasses cut through blinding glare from reflective surfaces, they are ideal for driving, sailing, fishing, skiing and other activities where reflective surfaces can be a nuisance. Grey, green and brown are the most common colours of polarised lenses.
How do polarised sunglasses work?
When light reflects from a surface, the light waves travel in different directions. However, when light hits a reflective surface, such as wet roads, the surface of a lake or the bonnet of a car, at a right angle, some light waves become polarised, which means that while vertical light waves are absorbed, horizontal light waves are not and bounce off the surface. This polarised light causes glare and can impair clear vision by directly striking the eyes. This horizontally polarised light can only be blocked by the polarised sunglasses. They contain a polarising filter that allows only vertical light waves to enter the wearer’s eyes while blocking horizontal light waves.
Advantages of polarised sunglasses
There are many benefits of polarised sunglasses, including:
- Glare reduction – One of the main advantages of polarised sunglasses is that they minimise glare from reflective surfaces, offering better visual clarity and more comfort.
- UV protection – Like all other sunglasses, polarised sunglasses also shield the eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays emitted from the sun, reducing the risk of developing certain eye conditions.
- Enhanced colour perception – Polarised sunglasses offer enhanced colour contrast and perception, providing a clearer and more pleasing visual experience.
- Ideal for outdoor activities – Polarised sunglasses are perfect for outdoor activities, such as driving, biking, skiing, fishing, hiking, playing golf, sailing and more.
- Beneficial for those with photophobia – Polarised sunglasses can also be helpful for those who have increased sensitivity to light.
Disadvantages of polarised sunglasses
Polarised sunglasses have some disadvantages as well:
- Not suitable for digital screens – As polarised sunglasses block horizontal light emitted from digital screens, it can be difficult to use them with LCD or LED screens, such as smartphones, computers and tablets. These sunglasses can make screens appear pitch dark.
- On the pricey side – Polarised sunglasses are costlier than a regular pair of sunglasses with tinted lenses because of their polarising filter.
- Less durable – The polarisation filter on the lenses of polarised sunglasses can degrade or wear out over time, minimising their effectiveness and the protection they offer to the eyes.
When to wear polarised sunglasses
Although it’s beneficial to wear polarised sunglasses during most outdoor activities or when you are under bright sunlight, they are especially helpful in the following situations:
- Water sports – When it comes to water activities, polarised sunglasses are the best choice as they drastically reduce glare from the surface of the water, making it easier to spot underwater objects and identify potential hazards. It is highly advisable to wear polarised sunglasses when fishing, boating, sailing or at the beach.
- Driving – Wearing polarised sunglasses while driving can help reduce the glare from wet roads and the sun, resulting in a more comfortable driving experience.
- Winter activities – Skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking and similar activities that are carried out in snowy environments can cause glare from snow and have a blinding effect. Polarised sunglasses can help minimise the glare from snow.
- Outdoor pursuits – Polarised sunglasses help improve clarity and colour contrast and can be really beneficial while enjoying outdoor activities, such as cycling, running and playing golf for better focus and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between polarised and non-polarised sunglasses?
The lenses of polarised sunglasses come with a polarising filter that helps in blocking glare from reflective surfaces. Non-polarised sunglasses, however, do not have any such filter applied to their lenses.
Are polarised sunglasses better for your eyes?
Yes, polarised sunglasses are better for the eyes because they reduce glare and enhance contrast and colour perception, resulting in a more comfortable visual experience.
Do polarised sunglasses block UV rays?
Yes, polarised sunglasses block UVA and UVB rays, delaying the onset of conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.
What shapes are available in women’s polarised sunglasses?
From oval to square and from round to cat eye, Feel Good Contacts offers women’s polarised sunglasses in many shapes, available in different materials and colours.
Disclaimer: The advice in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical care or an in-person check-up. Please check with an eye care professional before purchasing any products or remedies. For information on our article review process, please refer to our Editorial Policy.
Wut Win is a qualified Dispensing Optician at Feel Good Contacts and a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO). She is registered with the General Optical Council (GOC) and adheres to its professional guidelines. Wut graduated from City & Islington College with a Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing in 2006 and has over 17 years of experience. She has worked with several leading high street opticians, dispensing eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses. Wut has also assisted children with autism and special needs through the Special School Eyecare Service.
