Why is Polarization so Important?
To choose the perfect pair of polarized shades, it helps to know how polarization works and how you can use this feature to your best advantage. If you already know the science and the reasons to use polarized glasses, skip this part and scroll to the “How to Choose the Best Pair of Shades” section for buying tips.
Polarized sunglasses block light rays of a specific orientation, usually horizontal. This is why polarized sunglasses make glare and reflections disappear – the filter is working its magic. And this effect is not limited to glare, as the filter will block all horizontally polarized ambient light as well. In short, less light reaches your eyes when you wear polarized lenses.
No other lens treatments can remove the reflections from the windshield of a car or provide the same light-blocking effect as polarized lenses. Anti-reflective sunglasses only remove the glare from the lens itself. Tints will block light, but won’t remove glare. UV filters will not block light or glare. A combination of all three features is the best way to protect your eyes.
These properties make polarized lenses the ideal choice for people who want to preserve the accuracy of their view while maintaining the highest degree of eye comfort possible. People who drive long commutes every day like polarized lenses because they reduce road glare and can improve vision through rain and fog, while anglers and boaters use polarized lenses to remove reflections on water so they can see fish.
Last, but not least, there is the matter of fashion. Polarization filters cut light transmission – this means that you can get better brightness protection with lighter tints. The sunglasses need a little bit of pigment to make the polarization filter work, but that pigment can be just a light shade of pink or brown if you desire. This is a huge benefit for people who want to look smart and protect their eyes but don’t want to look like the Blues Brothers while doing it.
How to Choose the Best Pair of Shades
First, it is important to realize that polarization is an inexpensive and very common option. Be on the lookout for big-name brands that try to charge more for their polarized lenses – the truth is that polarization only adds a few dollars to the production cost of each lens, so even the cheap throwaway sunglasses often come with polarization filters these days.
The good news is that many brands are starting to include polarization as a standard feature. Take some time to visit 8wake.com, for example, to see a company that includes polarization at no extra charge.
Shopping online or at an optometrist gives you the advantage of being able to ask customer service about whether a certain pair of sunglasses has polarized lenses. Things can get a little tougher when looking for generic brands at the department store – always check the label, as brands will never forget to advertise their biggest selling point. If, for some reason, you come across an unlabeled pair, you can usually check for polarization looking at a reflective surface while wearing them.
Unfortunately, there isn’t an aftermarket polarization option for people who want to polarize their existing sunglasses. The only way to achieve true polarization is to include the filter in the lens during the manufacturing process. You can ask your optometrist to create custom lenses for your favorite frames if you are willing to pay the hefty price tag.
One more thing before you rush out to buy your new favorite pair of shades: polarization can sometimes make it hard to read certain types of electronic displays in vehicles, and can create interference patterns on some types of treated automotive glass. Always ask about the return policy before you pick up a high-end pair of sunglasses in case either of these factors would bother you.
Are you getting excited for a fresh pair of super-protective and effective shades?