More than a staple summer accessory, sunglasses serve a purpose for every season. With the right features, sunglasses can shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, offer sharp visual clarity and contrast, and keep your eyes comfortable for all-day wear.
Not all sunglasses are the same. These special specs are more than just lenses with a dark tint. Investing in quality sunglasses is a simple yet effective way to support your vision and overall eye health.
Here are some of the key features to look for in protective sunglasses:
- UV protection
- Polarized lenses
- Wraparound lens frames
- Lens tint
- Lens material
- Fit and comfort
If you’re unsure of where to start, don’t worry! Our team is here to help you find your next pair of perfect sunnies.
Shield Your Eyes: The Importance of Sun Protection
Enjoying the sun’s warmth does wonders for our mental health and overall well-being, but it can harm our eyes without the right protection.
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that can harm your eyes and skin. Although there are 3 types of UV rays, the ones that concern us the most are UVA and UVB (the earth’s atmosphere blocks most of UVC rays). This is where adequate sun protection proves useful.
Just as sunscreen protects our skin from harmful UV rays, UV-protective sunglasses do the same for our eyes.
Aside from increased light sensitivity, extended exposure to UV rays can increase your chance of developing serious eye conditions, including:
- Corneal sunburns (photokeratitis)
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Pinguecula and pterygium
Sunglasses reduce this risk by filtering UV rays and decreasing glare. They’re not just for sunny summer days either—snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation, which is why sunglasses are equally important for winter sports. UV rays are present year-round, even when the skies are grey and cloudy.
The Role of Lens Material
Sunglasses from online retailers and those from your eye doctor are not the same. The power of glasses lies in their lenses. Quality lenses provide better clarity and also block harmful UV rays more effectively.
The darkness of the lens tint doesn’t matter. Instead, choose lenses labelled as “UV 400” which block nearly 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Custom lenses from your optometrist (with or without prescription) offer add-ons like polarization or gradient tints to maximize eye comfort outdoors.
Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are a popular choice, especially for those who enjoy spending time on the water. These lenses serve a function greater than vibrant and stylish lens coatings.
Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are excellent for reducing glare caused by reflective surfaces such as water, glass, and snow. They filter out intense light rays that bounce off these surfaces. As a result, your eyes feel less strain and fatigue, improving your overall comfort.
This quality makes them amazing for outdoor activities like fishing, skiing, or driving. Some additional benefits they offer include:
- Improved clarity: Reduce glare-induced eye fatigue
- Brighter colours: Enhanced contrast, depth perception, and colour perception, making it easier to see objects and details more clearly
Polarized sunglasses with UV protection are an ideal choice if you spend long hours outdoors or even driving on summer road trips.
Non-Polarized Lenses
On the other hand, non-polarized lenses also protect against UV rays but do not reduce eye glare or improve visual contrasts and colours.
They may not go the extra mile, but non-polarized sunglasses are still a great option for daily use, quick commutes, or if you like to balance your time indoors and outdoors. Additionally, if you often use smartphones, tablets, or other outdoor screens, non-polarized sunglasses reduce glare without dimming your view.
If your primary focus is UV protection and you’re not worried about glare, non-polarized lenses may be more suitable.
Your Guide to Protective Sunglasses: Features to Look For
On the hunt for your next pair of sunnies, take the time to think about where you will be wearing these glasses most often. Are you looking for protective eyewear to support your outdoor adventures or a simple grab-and-go pair?
When selecting sunglasses that truly protect your eyes, keep these important features in mind:
- UV protection: Make sure your sunglasses block 99–100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for a sticker or description labelled “UV 400.”
- Polarized lenses: Polarized lenses are indispensable for those spending significant time near water, snow, or other reflective surfaces.
- Wraparound frames: Protect your eyes at all angles by choosing wraparound styles, which prevent UV rays from sneaking in from the sides. These are especially helpful during physical activities like biking or running.
- Lens tint: While the darkness of the lens does not equate to UV protection, certain tints, such as grey or amber, can enhance contrast and comfort, so keep your style preferences in mind.
- Lens material: Polycarbonate lenses are lightweight, durable, and shatter-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor sports or an active lifestyle.
- Fit and comfort: The right fit is paramount. Your sunglasses should sit snugly on your nose and ears without pinching. Ill-fitting sunglasses can affect the clarity of your vision (if you’re wearing prescription lenses) and make wearing them feel uncomfortable.
Despite the value in all these features, choosing the right sunglasses doesn’t have to be complex. When the focus is on protecting your eyes, the rest all boils down to your visual needs, lifestyle, and preferences.
Visit us at Calgary Family Eye Doctors, and we will happily take care of the rest!
Invest in Your Vision
Sunglasses with proper UV protection are a must-have accessory year-round, not just for summer. Don’t leave your eye health to chance. Choose a pair that provides top-tier protection alongside your preferred style and functionality.
If you’re ready to upgrade your eyewear, our team at Calgary Family Eye Doctors is here to help. Explore our curated collection of sunglasses tailored to style and protection.
Together, we can safeguard your eyes from the sun so you can focus on enjoying life’s bright moments!
