Unveiling the Mystery: How to Check Original Polarized Sunglasses and Ensure You’re Buying the Real Deal
What To Know
- This simple test involves looking through the lenses at a reflective surface, such as a computer screen or a window.
- If the lenses are polarized, you’ll notice a significant change in the amount of glare reflected from the surface.
- If a pair of sunglasses is significantly cheaper than the average price for a similar brand and model, it might be a fake.
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory. They protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and glare, enhancing your vision and overall well-being. But with the abundance of counterfeit products in the market, knowing how to check original polarized sunglasses is crucial. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to distinguish genuine polarized sunglasses from fake ones, ensuring you get the best protection and value for your money.
The Science Behind Polarized Lenses
Before diving into the verification process, let’s understand the technology behind polarized lenses. Polarized lenses are designed to block out glare, which is reflected light that can cause eye strain, headaches, and even temporary blindness. This glare is usually horizontally polarized, meaning light waves oscillate in a horizontal direction.
Polarized lenses contain a special filter that only allows vertically polarized light to pass through. This filter effectively blocks out the horizontal glare, resulting in a clearer and more comfortable view.
Visual Inspection: The First Line of Defense
The first step in verifying the authenticity of polarized sunglasses is a visual inspection. While this method isn‘t foolproof, it can help you identify obvious signs of counterfeit products.
- Look for the Brand Name and Logo: Reputable brands usually have their name and logo clearly displayed on the sunglasses, often engraved on the frame or lens. Check for any inconsistencies or misspelled words.
- Inspect the Frame Quality: Genuine sunglasses are made with high-quality materials, like durable plastic or metal. Check for any rough edges, uneven seams, or loose parts. The frame should feel solid and well-built.
- Examine the Lenses: Polarized lenses should be smooth and free of any scratches or imperfections. They should also have a uniform color and a slight shimmer when tilted.
The Polarization Test: A Simple Yet Effective Method
The most reliable way to determine if sunglasses are truly polarized is by performing the polarization test. This simple test involves looking through the lenses at a reflective surface, such as a computer screen or a window.
1. Hold the Sunglasses Up: Hold the sunglasses in front of your eyes, with the lenses facing the reflective surface.
2. Rotate the Sunglasses: Slowly rotate the sunglasses 90 degrees. If the lenses are polarized, you’ll notice a significant change in the amount of glare reflected from the surface. The glare will be strongest when the lenses are aligned with the reflection, and weakest when they are perpendicular to it.
3. Observe the Glare Reduction: If the glare noticeably decreases as you rotate the sunglasses, it’s a good indication that they are polarized. If the glare remains the same, the sunglasses are likely fake.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Verification Techniques
While the polarization test is a reliable indicator, there are additional techniques you can employ to further verify the authenticity of your sunglasses.
- Check for a Polarization Label: Many polarized sunglasses feature a label or marking on the lens or frame that indicates they are polarized. Look for terms like “polarized,” “UV400,” or “100% UV protection.”
- Examine the Packaging: Genuine sunglasses usually come in high-quality packaging that includes a case, cleaning cloth, and instructions. Check for any inconsistencies or signs of tampering.
- Compare Prices: Be wary of suspiciously low prices. If a pair of sunglasses is significantly cheaper than the average price for a similar brand and model, it might be a fake.
Where to Buy Authentic Polarized Sunglasses
To ensure you’re getting genuine polarized sunglasses, it’s essential to purchase them from reputable sources.
- Authorized Retailers: Purchase from authorized retailers of the brand you’re interested in. This ensures that you’re getting authentic products.
- Online Marketplaces: Be cautious when buying online. Check the seller’s reputation and reviews before making a purchase. Only buy from reputable online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay.
- Opticians: Opticians are trained professionals who can help you choose the right sunglasses for your needs and ensure they are genuine.
Protecting Your Investment: Taking Care of Your Sunglasses
Once you’ve acquired a pair of authentic polarized sunglasses, it’s crucial to take care of them to extend their lifespan and maintain their quality.
- Store Them Properly: Always store your sunglasses in their case when not in use. This protects them from scratches, dust, and damage.
- Clean them Regularly: Clean your sunglasses with a microfiber cloth and a lens cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can scratch the lenses.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep your sunglasses away from extreme temperatures, as this can warp the frame or damage the lenses.
Time to See Clearly: The Value of Authentic Polarized Sunglasses
Choosing authentic polarized sunglasses is an investment in your eye health and visual comfort. They offer superior protection from harmful UV rays and glare, enhancing your vision and reducing eye strain. By following the verification tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure you’re getting the real deal and enjoying the full benefits of polarized lenses.
The Final Verdict: Making the Right Choice
Investing in a pair of authentic polarized sunglasses is an investment in your eye health and visual comfort. They offer superior protection from harmful UV rays and glare, enhancing your vision and reducing eye strain. By following the verification tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure you’re getting the real deal and enjoying the full benefits of polarized lenses.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I test if sunglasses are polarized with my smartphone camera?
A: While this method is not foolproof, you can try it. Point your phone’s camera at a reflective surface, like a window, and look through the sunglasses. If the sunglasses are polarized, you might see a pattern or change in the reflection. However, this method is not as reliable as the traditional polarization test.
Q: What are the benefits of polarized sunglasses?
A: Polarized sunglasses offer several benefits, including:
- Reduced glare: They block out reflected light, reducing glare from surfaces like water, snow, and roads.
- Enhanced visual clarity: They improve visual clarity and reduce eye strain, making them ideal for driving, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
- UV protection: They protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, which can cause cataracts and other eye conditions.
Q: How can I tell if the polarization label is genuine?
A: It’s difficult to determine the authenticity of a polarization label solely based on its appearance. However, if the label is printed on the lens itself or is a permanent marking on the frame, it’s more likely to be genuine.
Q: Where can I find a reputable source for polarized sunglasses?
A: Look for authorized retailers of the brand you’re interested in, online marketplaces with good seller reviews, or visit an optician. These sources offer a higher chance of finding authentic polarized sunglasses.