By Sam Savva, Practice Manager and Stylist, Adrenaline Optometry
Have you ever wondered what is the difference between polarised and non–polarised sunglasses? In this article I will provide you with an overview of the key features and benefits to assist in choosing the right sunglasses.
Traditional sunglasses are designed to block harmful UV wavelengths from reaching the eye, as well as making it more comfortable to be outdoors on a sunny day. The darker the lens, the more the protection.
Polarised lenses take this a step further! Polarisation is an invisible lens treatment that reduces blinding glare, eye strain, and enhances contrast. What this means is that regular sunglasses help protect your eyes, but polarised lenses do even more to enhance the clarity and contract of your vision.
The colour of the sunglasses lenses also provide different benefits.
Grey polarised lenses are a great all rounder for everyday use. Grey provides true to life colour perception and is most suitable for very bright sunny conditions.
Brown polarised lenses are great for enhancing contrast in nature, by making greens, blues and browns appear brighter. This makes brown a great choice for hiking and fishing.
Green polarised lenses are great for very bright conditions such as snow, tennis, and aeronautical use.
If you’re like me and spend a lot of time at the beach, walking along the Esplanade, brunching at local cafés and spending time at the park, polarised lenses are worth giving a go because they cut glare and improve visual clarity. I still find it so fascinating when I am walking along the Terrigal Esplanade with my polarised sunglasses and see the brilliant colour enhancement.
Despite all the benefits of polarised lenses, there is a small negative aspect that may or may not bother you. Polarised lenses can make it hard to see digital screens, like your mobile phone or car digital dash. But in most cases, the benefits far outweigh this.
If any of this sounds confusing, please speak to your local Optometrist, or come visit us at Adrenaline Optometry, where we stock the widest range of performance eye wear on the Central Coast, hand selected from boutique brands such as Maui Jim, Carrera, Bolle, AM Eyewear, Local Supply, Dita Lancier and more.