When choosing a pair of sunglasses, style and comfort is important. But above all we believe lens quality, vision quality & UV protection are essential.
We highly recommend polarised lenses in sunglasses because of the multitude of benefits they offer.
What does polarised mean?
Polarisation is a treatment applied to sunglass lenses designed to filter glare from horizontal surfaces such as glass, water, asphalt, and snow. This glare can be distracting or even dangerous because it can reduce clarity of vision. By blocking this glare, polarised lenses offer the best quality of vision during outdoor activities such as water sports and driving.
How does polarisation work?
Polarised lenses contain a laminated filter to absorb light reflected off horizontal surfaces. This was inspired from a naturally occurring oil in the eyes of eagles which enabled them to see through light bouncing off a reflective surface like water. Eagles are able to see both above and below the surface that the light is reflecting off, giving them their ‘eagle eye’ quality of vision.
The lamination in the polarised lenses allow vertical light to pass through the lens, and blocks the horizontal light so the glare is reduced and vision clarity is improved.
Does polarisation offer better UV protection?
Sun damage is one of the leading causes of eye disease in Australia.
UV protection is therefore paramount in choosing any pair of sunglasses. All sunglasses are tested and categorised based on performance suitability under AS/NZS 1067.1:2016.
Lens Category 0: Fashion Sunglasses. These are not sunglasses, as they have a very low ability to reduce sun glare. They provide limited or no UV protection..
Lens Category 1: Fashion Sunglasses. Like category 0 lenses, these are not sunglasses; however, they do provide limited sun glare reduction and some UV protection. Fashion spectacles with Category 1 lenses are not suitable for driving at night.
Lens Category 2: Sunglasses. Provide a good level UV protection and medium level glare reduction.
Lens Category 3: Sunglasses. Provide a good level UV protection and high level glare reduction.
Lens Category 4: Sunglasses. Special purpose sunglasses that provide good UV protection and very high glare reduction. Do not wear while driving.
A common myth is that all polarised sunglasses offer 100% UV protection. Whilst polarisation offers improved vision quality, it does not guarantee the lenses are effective in protecting your eyes against harmful UV light. Always check the classification of the sunglasses to ensure your eyes are protected against UV rays. Category 3 is highly recommended.
Polaroid or Polarised?
When looking for sunglasses, some people confuse the term ‘polarised’ with the brand name Polaroid.
Polaroid is a global brand that was co-founded by Edwin Land, who invented the first polarised lens in 1937. While this brand was responsible for the first application of polarisation in sunglasses, this technology is now applied to lenses by other leading optical brands such as Rayban and Oakley.
What are the benefits of polarised lenses?
Regardless of whether you spend a considerable amount of time by the water or near snow, polaroid sunglasses offer many practical benefits for everyday life. These benefits include:
- reduces reflections and eliminates glare from surfaces including metal, asphalt, water and glass
- improves visual clarity and contrast
- reduces eye strain
- allows for true perception of colours
- improves comfort
Polarised lenses now come in a wide selection of colours, and are appropriate for many different lens types and prescription requirements.
Whether you need prescription sunglasses, are looking for the best sun protection, or are wanting to learn more about how polarisation can offer solutions for your vision needs, contact us or visit us in store to try polarised lenses today.