Choosing the right pair of sunglasses can be overwhelming as there are so many features, styles, and colors available on the market. With polarized sunglasses becoming more popular in recent years, they may be considered the rave of the moment. But are they better than non-polarized ones? Are they worth the extra cost?
At Cockeysville Opticians and Eyecare, we understand the importance of finding the perfect sunglasses to protect your eyes, and our experienced eye doctors in Cockeysville can help you select the ideal pair. Book an appointment with us today to get started.
In this post, we look at the differences between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses; hopefully, this helps you decide on your preference.
Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses: What's the Difference?
Here's a list of differences between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses.
Polarized Sunglasses
1. Reduced glare and eye strain
Polarized lenses are designed to reduce the glare (intense bright light) that reflects off surfaces like water, snow, or roads. This glare can cause discomfort, eye fatigue, and even headaches.
2. Enhanced color contrast
Polarized lenses can enhance color contrast, making colors appear more vibrant and distinct. This can be especially helpful in outdoor activities like fishing or hiking where seeing subtle changes in colors can be important.
3. Excellent UV protection
Polarized sunglasses can provide 100% protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. This helps prevent cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye problems caused by exposure to UV rays.
4. Can block light from digital screens
Some polarized lenses have a special coating that can block blue light from digital screens like computers, smartphones, and TVs. Blue light can cause eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns, so blocking it can be beneficial for you, especially if you spend a lot of time looking at screens.
5. May be more expensive
Because of their advanced technology and benefits, polarized sunglasses can be more expensive than non-polarized ones. However, there are many affordable options available that still provide excellent quality and protection.
Non-Polarized Sunglasses
1. Less expensive
Non-polarized sunglasses are generally less expensive than polarized sunglasses, making them a more budget-friendly option.
2. Can be better for activities where glare is not a concern
Non-polarized sunglasses can be a better choice for activities where glare is not an issue, like driving on cloudy days.
3. Non-polarized sunglasses also provide protection from UV rays
While non-polarized sunglasses do not reduce glare or enhance color contrast, they still provide protection from the sun's harmful UV rays.
Overall, choosing between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses depends on your individual needs and preferences. And don't forget to have regular eye exams to keep your eyes healthy and protected!
Eye Exams in Cockeysville
At Cockeysville Opticians and Eyecare, we offer comprehensive eye exams to determine the best eyewear for your needs. We have a wide range of high-end and affordable sunglasses to choose from.
Schedule an eye examination today at our optometry practice in Cockeysville to protect your eyes and maintain optimal visual health.
FAQs About Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses
1. Are non-polarized sunglasses bad for your eyes?
No, non-polarized sunglasses aren’t bad for your eyes. While they do not reduce glare (intense bright light or reflection), they still provide protection from harmful UV rays.
2. How do you tell if sunglasses are polarized or not?
Most polarized sunglasses say so on the frame or on the lenses, so watch out for the ‘polarized’ label.
Another way to tell if your glasses are polarized is to hold them up to a reflective surface, like a car windshield or a mirror. Then, slowly move the sunglasses around while looking at the reflection. If the reflection changes or become fainter, it probably means your sunglasses are polarized.
3. How do polarized sunglasses compare to non-polarized for driving?
Polarized sunglasses are often recommended for driving, as they reduce glare. But they also make it hard to see certain digital displays like GPS screens or dashboard displays. For people who struggle with this, it may be better to go for non-polarized sunglasses.
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your individual preferences and needs.