Table of Contents
Sunglasses for women come in various lens types, including polarized and non-polarized lenses. While both types of lenses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, they each have benefits and drawbacks. Learn the differences between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses lenses to find the most suitable option.
Polarized Sunglass Lenses
Polarized lenses are coated with a unique chemical film to help reduce glare from surfaces like water, snow, glass, and other flat surfaces. The light reflection from these surfaces can be blinding, but with polarized lenses, you can view objects in the brightest outdoor environments without squinting or shading. These lenses are ideal for activities like fishing, skiing, and driving. They are suitable for those who spend a lot of time in bright, sunny weather.
Benefits of Polarized Sunglass Lenses
The primary benefit of polarized sunglasses for women and men is their ability to reduce glare that causes distraction and eyestrain. Other benefits include:
- Enhanced colors: Polluted air and humidity have tiny particles that can make colors seem dim and dull. Polarized sunglasses prevent reflection off these particles, so colors may appear more vivid, crisp, and vibrant.
- Better visual quality: Polarized lenses cut out scattered light, allowing you to see more clearly and sharply. This makes it easier to spot objects in the distance, which may enhance your vision while playing sports or engaging in other outdoor activities.
- Reduce eyestrain when outside: Working outdoors can be difficult if you’re constantly squinting or shading your eyes from the sun’s glare. The environment is full of reflective surfaces and bright lighting that can cause strain and fatigue. Polarized lenses help reduce eye strain so you can work more comfortably in the sun.
Drawbacks of Polarized Sunglass Lenses
Since polarized lenses filter out scattered light and reflections, they can make it difficult to read LCD screens on digital devices. People using these screens, like pilots, are encouraged to switch to non-polarized lenses. Polarized lenses may also be a little costlier than their non-polarized counterparts. The cost is usually worth it as glare reduction and improved vision quality make them a great long-term investment.
Non-polarized Sunglass Lenses
Non-polarized lenses are the more traditional type of lens used in sunglasses for men and women. They protect your eyes from UV rays but do not reduce glare. Non-polarized lenses are suitable for people who don’t spend as much time outdoors or engage in activities that require glare reduction.
- Great UV protection: Non-polarized lenses can still protect your eyes from UV rays. While they don’t offer glare reduction, they provide some protection from the sun’s harmful light. You can still enjoy outdoor activities while keeping your eyes safe.
- More affordable: Non-polarized lenses can be less expensive than polarized lenses, so you can get a nice pair of sunglasses without breaking the bank. They are also readily available in most stores, making them a more accessible choice.
Drawbacks of Non-polarized Sunglass Lenses
The main drawback of non-polarized lenses is that they don’t prevent glare from surfaces like water or snow. This can make activities like fishing, skiing, and driving more difficult since the sun’s reflection may be blinding. Non-polarized lenses don’t enhance colors or improve vision quality like polarized lenses.
Distinguishing Polarized and Non-polarized Lenses
Polarized and non-polarized lenses look similar. One of the best test runs you can do is to take a pair of polarized lenses and hold them up in front of an LCD screen. If the display appears dark or distorted, then they are polarized lenses. If it seems normal, then they are non-polarized.
What you plan to do with your sunglasses will determine whether polarized or non-polarized lenses are best for you. If you plan to engage in activities involving reflective surfaces, you may choose polarized lenses. Non-polarized lenses are still an excellent choice if you need basic UV protection and don’t plan to be in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Find the Right Sunglasses for Women and Men
Your sunglasses should offer the right combination of style and protection. When shopping for sunglasses for men and women, consider the lens that best suits your needs. Polarized lenses offer better protection from glare and enhanced colors, while non-polarized lenses are more affordable and provide great UV protection. The right sunglasses may help make your outdoor activities more enjoyable, so pick the most suitable lens.
See Also: