What To Know
- But with so many different brands and styles of polarized sunglasses on the market, it can be difficult to know how to choose a good pair.
- Simply hold the sunglasses up to your eyes and look at a bright light source, such as the sun or a light bulb.
- In addition to the factors listed above, there are a few other things you can do to choose the best polarized sunglasses for your needs.
Polarized sunglasses are a must-have accessory for anyone who spends time outdoors. They help to reduce glare, improve visual clarity, and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. But with so many different brands and styles of polarized sunglasses on the market, it can be difficult to know how to choose a good pair. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about how to tell good polarized sunglasses, so you can make an informed decision when making your purchase.
Understanding Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are designed to block out horizontal light waves, which are the waves that cause glare. This makes them ideal for activities like driving, fishing, and boating, where glare can be a major problem. Polarized lenses also help to improve visual clarity by reducing the amount of light that scatters off of surfaces. This can make it easier to see objects in bright conditions, such as when you’re driving or playing sports.
How to Spot Good Polarized Sunglasses
There are a few key things you can look for when shopping for polarized sunglasses to ensure that you’re getting a good pair.
1. Lens Material: The lens material is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing polarized sunglasses. Glass lenses are the most durable and scratch-resistant, but they are also the heaviest. Polycarbonate lenses are lighter and more impact-resistant than glass lenses, but they are also more prone to scratching.
2. Lens Coating: The lens coating is another important factor to consider. Anti-reflective coatings help to reduce glare and improve visual clarity. UV coatings protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
3. Frame Material: The frame material is also important to consider. Metal frames are durable and stylish, but they can be heavy. Plastic frames are lighter and more flexible, but they are not as durable as metal frames.
4. Fit: The fit of your sunglasses is also important. Make sure that the sunglasses fit snugly on your face, but not so tightly that they are uncomfortable. The sunglasses should also provide good coverage for your eyes.
5. Price: The price of polarized sunglasses can vary widely. In general, you can expect to pay more for a good pair of polarized sunglasses. However, there are also some affordable options available.
Testing Polarized Sunglasses
There are a few simple tests you can do to test the quality of polarized sunglasses.
1. The Glare Test: The glare test is the most common way to test polarized sunglasses. Simply hold the sunglasses up to your eyes and look at a bright light source, such as the sun or a light bulb. If the glare is significantly reduced, then the sunglasses are polarized.
2. The Computer Screen Test: The computer screen test is another simple way to test polarized sunglasses. Turn on your computer and open a white document. Hold the sunglasses up to your eyes and look at the screen. If the screen appears darker through the sunglasses, then the sunglasses are polarized.
3. The Polarized Test: The polarized test is the most definitive way to test polarized sunglasses. You will need a pair of polarized sunglasses and a piece of polarized plastic. Hold the sunglasses up to your eyes and look at the piece of plastic. If the plastic appears dark, then the sunglasses are polarized.
Additional Tips for Choosing Polarized Sunglasses
In addition to the factors listed above, there are a few other things you can do to choose the best polarized sunglasses for your needs.
- Consider your lifestyle. If you are active outdoors, you will need a pair of sunglasses that are durable and provide good coverage. If you are more likely to wear your sunglasses for casual activities, you can choose a pair that is more stylish.
- Think about your face shape. Some sunglasses styles are more flattering on certain face shapes than others. Experiment with different styles to find a pair that looks good on you.
- Get professional advice. If you are unsure about which pair of polarized sunglasses to choose, you can always get professional advice from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Final Note: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right pair of polarized sunglasses can be a daunting task. But by following the tips in this guide, you can make an informed decision and choose a pair of sunglasses that will meet your needs and provide you with years of enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the benefits of wearing polarized sunglasses?
Polarized sunglasses offer a number of benefits, including reduced glare, improved visual clarity, and protection from harmful UV rays.
2. How can I tell if my sunglasses are polarized?
There are a few simple tests you can do to test the quality of polarized sunglasses. The most common test is the glare test. Simply hold the sunglasses up to your eyes and look at a bright light source, such as the sun or a light bulb. If the glare is significantly reduced, then the sunglasses are polarized.
3. What is the difference between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses?
Polarized sunglasses block out horizontal light waves, which are the waves that cause glare. Non-polarized sunglasses do not block out horizontal light waves, so they do not provide the same level of glare reduction as polarized sunglasses.
4. Are polarized sunglasses worth the extra cost?
Polarized sunglasses are worth the extra cost if you spend a lot of time outdoors. They can help to reduce glare, improve visual clarity, and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
5. How should I care for my polarized sunglasses?
To care for your polarized sunglasses, you should clean them regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can damage the lenses. You should also store your sunglasses in a protective case when you are not wearing them.
