While you can purchase prescription sunglasses with polarized lenses, there are plenty of over-the-counter options to choose from, too; a quick search online will direct you to an endless array of options to choose from. But with so many choices, how do you know which polarized sunglasses you should choose?
We’ve compiled our findings and included them in this guide. Below, you’ll find our top picks for the best polarized sunglasses currently available on the market, including detailed reviews of the features they offer and the pros and cons of each one.
We’ve also included a buyer’s guide, which highlights the most important factors that you should take into consideration when you’re trying to choose the best pair for you. We round out our review by answering some of the most frequently asked questions that consumers have about polarized sunglasses.
Our Top Picks
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 Polarized Sunglasses Reviews
- 2.1 Oakley Squared Unisex Frogskins Sunglasses
- 2.2 Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Sunglasses
- 2.3 Merry’s Unisex Polarized Aluminum Sunglasses
- 2.4 Ray-Ban Rb3025 Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses
- 2.5 Sojos Small Square Polarized Sunglasses
- 2.6 Faguma Sports Polarized Sunglasses
- 2.7 Kate Spade New York Women’s Dalia 2 Aviator Sunglasses
- 3 Other Best Selling Options
- 4 Polarized Sunglasses Buyer’s Guide
- 5 Polarized Sunglasses FAQs
- 6 Conclusion
We realize that some shoppers don’t have the time to read through such a detailed list of information, but they still want to find a high-quality pair of polarized sunglasses. That’s why we put this section together. Here, we highlight our top three picks for the best overall, best premium, and best budget polarized sunglasses, including a brief overview of each style.
- Best Pick: Oakley Squared Unisex Frogskins Sunglasses
Oakley is one of the best-known brands in the sunglasses market, so it comes as no surprise that they’re our pick for the best overall polarized sunglasses. Since they’re unisex, the design is suitable for both men and women. The frames are constructed of high-grade plastic material, so they’re durable, yet lightweight. The polarized lenses are treated with a UV-protected coating, measure 55 mm and offer 100 percent protection against all UV rays, including UVA, UVB, and UVA, as well as harmful blue light up to 400 mm away. - Premium Pick: Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Sunglasses
If you’re looking for a top-quality pair of polarized sunglasses and you have some extra room in your budget to spare, the Ray-Bam Rb2140 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses are a great choice. Like Oakley, Ray-Ban is a very highly regarded manufacturer of sunglasses, and their Rb2140 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses are definitely a testament to their reputation. The lenses, of course, are polarized and offer 100 percent full-spectrum UV protection while still offering a high level of visual clarity. Their precision-cut, too, so they reduce the risk of eye strain, and The Original Wayfarer is an iconic design that is beloved among musicians, celebrities, artists, and everyday people around the globe. - Budget Pick Merry’s Unisex Polarized Aluminum Sunglasses
For shoppers who want a high-quality pair of polarized sunglasses that will offer the UV protection they need while still providing great clarity and are stylish at the same time, yet won’t break the bank, Merry’s Unisex Polarized Aluminum Sunglasses are a great choice. The classic style is suitable for men and women with faces of all shapes and sizes. The frames are made of durable, yet lightweight plastic, so they won’t feel like they’re weighing you down, yet they’ll be able to stand up to wear and tear.
Polarized Sunglasses Reviews
Now that you’ve had a sneak peek at our top picks for the best polarized sunglasses, let’s explore a little further. In this part of our guide, we offer a more in-depth review of our top picks for the best overall, best budget, and best premium polarized sunglasses, as well as several additional well-made, reliable, attractive designs that offer exceptional protection for your eyes. In addition to highlighting the features of each pair of sunglasses, you’ll also find a list of pros and cons for each option so that you can determine which option will best suit your needs.
Oakley Squared Unisex Frogskins Sunglasses
Oakley is one of the most beloved makers of sunglasses, so it comes as no surprise that our pick for the best overall polarized sunglasses is their Squared Unisex Frogskins. The classic style of the black frames are feature hints of blue undertones that pop through will look great on both men and women, no matter the shape of their face.
The Oakley logo is emblazoned along the sides of the earpieces and adds a touch of interest to the design. The frames are made of durable, yet lightweight plastic, so they won’t weigh you down, yet will be able to easily withstand regular wear. The 55 mm polarized Putonite lenses offer 100 percent protection from the harsh rays of the sun, including UVA, UVB, and UVC, as well as blue light up to 400 mm.
- 💥About the Frogskins: The Oakley Frogskins is a lifestyle and performance men's sunglasses. Oakley created one-of-a-kind sunglasses called Frogskins. Oakley resurrected the original tooling from the '80s giving you a chance to own a piece of history. Ideal for those who appreciate vintage style and modern performance. Made with lightweight materials and a 4 base curve sunglass to offer all-day comfort and style during your everyday fashion and activity. Color code: 24-306.
- 💥Exceptional Lens Quality: Featuring Plutonite lens material, designed exclusively for Oakley, is made from the purest lenses, offers superior impact resistance and protection against 100% of harmful UV rays. And High Definition Optics (HDO), they provide superior clarity and sharp vision from every angle.
- 💥Perfect Frame Fit: The high bridge design ensures a secure fit for those with a higher nose bridge, while the one-size-fits-all frame adapts comfortably to various face shapes.
- 💥Complete Protection and Convenience: Includes an oakley microfiber bag to protect your sunglasses and keep them in top condition, an Oakley leash to secure your frames and prevent loss, plus essential accessories like Designer iWear's 1 oz lens cleaner, screwdriver keychain, mirror, and microfiber cloth for ultimate care and convenience.
- 💥Peace of Mind Guarantee: Backed by a generous 2-year warranty, ensuring your Oakley sunglasses are protected against defects and craftsmanship issues, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in your purchase.
While the lenses provide superior protection, they also offer exceptional clarity; you’ll have no trouble seeing on super-bright days with high sun reflection, or in gray and foggy settings. The Oakley Squared Unisex Frogskins Sunglasses are stylish, versatile, durable, lightweight, and offer exceptional protection for your eyes while providing reliable visibility.
With so many notable features, it’s no wonder why we chose the Oakley Squared Unisex Frogskins Sunglasses Eclipse Blue Frame with Prism Tungsten Polarized Lenses as our top pick for the best overall polarized sunglasses.
- Stylish and timeless unisex design
- 55 mm lens width
- Polarized lenses offer 100 percent UV protection from UVA, UVB, and UVC rays, as well as blue light protection up to 400 mm
- Durable, yet lightweight plastic frames
- Offers great clarity
- Comfortable, yet reliable fit
- Comes with a cleaning and storage bag
Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Sunglasses
If you’re on the market for a premium-quality pair of polarized sunglasses, Ray-Ban’s Rb2140 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses are an excellent choice. This style has been beloved since 1956, when they were first introduced.
Actors, musicians, artists, and so many other famous people – and of course, the average Joe or Jane – has loved the look of these sunglasses for more than 64 years. You have to admit that’s pretty impressive.
From walks in the park to elaborate mid-day affairs, you’ll always be in-style with these sunglasses. Because the lenses are polarized, they provide 100 percent protection from all types of UV rays while still offering astute visual clarity. Plus, the lenses are precision-cut, which helps to reduce eye strain; something that you’ll definitely be thankful for if you’re wearing them for a prolonged period of time.
- UNISEX SUNGLASSES: The Original Ray-Ban Wayfarer features legendary G-15 lenses, in both polarized and non-polarized options, perfect for both women and men. Made from high-quality glass, Ray-Ban lenses are prescription ready.
- 100% UV PROTECTION: To protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, these sunglasses include lenses that are coated with 100% UV protection.
- POLARIZED SUNGLASSES: The Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses feature the legendary Ray-Ban polarized lenses that improve clarity and contrast, while reducing glare and eye-strain. Made from high-quality scratch-resistant glass.
- DURABLE ACETATE FRAMES: Our Original Wayfarer sunglasses are exceptionally strong. The frame is made from lightweight yet strong acetate construction.
- MULTIPLE FRAME AND LENS COLORS: Choose from multiple colors of frames—including black and tortoise—and lenses—including non-polarized and polarized crystal green G-15 and gradient options.
These sunglasses are available in two sizes. The standard size has a 50 mm lens width and a 22 mm bridge width, while the large has a 54 mm lens width and an 18 mm bridge width.
They’re available in 22 different color combinations, too, ranging from black lenses with black frames to green with copper flash lenses. They come with a limited warranty for manufacturer defects, too.
- Acetate frame is lightweight, yet durable
- Classic unisex style
- Available in two different sizes
- 22 different color combinations
- Polarized lenses offer 100 percent UV protection
- Precision cut lenses reduce eye strain
Merry’s Unisex Polarized Aluminum Sunglasses
For shoppers who are on a budget but still want a pair of stylish sunglasses that will offer reliable protection for their eyes, the Unisex Polarized Aluminum Sunglasses from Merry’s is a fantastic option.
The composite lenses measure 56 mm wide and offer 100 percent UV400 protection and HD vision, providing full glare barrier while allowing you to see true colors with extreme acuity. The vintage style is timeless and will look great on both men and woman and faces of all shapes and sizes.
- POLARIZED LENS - Polarized sunglasses reduce glare reflected off of roads, bodies of water, snow, and other horizontal surfaces. Restore true color, eliminate reflected light and scattered light and protect eyes perfectly. Polarized sunglasses cut glare and haze so your eyes are more comfortable and you can see better.
- STYLE - New brand design,it is suitable for any face, show your unique and high-end taste.
- SUITABLE - The perfect choice for taking selfies,shopping,houseboat,driving,running,fishing,climbing,trekking and business or other outdoor activities enthusiasts.
- SIZE - Lens Height:45MM(1.77Inches)--Lens Width:56MM(2.20Inches)--Arm:140MM(5.51Inches)--Bridge:16MM(0.63Inches)--Frame Length:142MM(5.59Inches).
- GIFT IDEAS PACKAGE - Sunglasses*1, Leather glasses case*1, Glasses kit*1(including microfiber glasses cleaning cloth and instruction book), Paper Box*1. It is also a gift packaged ready, making it a wonderful yet practical gift idea for friends and family!
Constructed of high-grade plastic, the frames are sturdy and comfortable for all-day wear. They’re available in eight different color combinations, such as classic black frames and black lenses, black frames and pink lenses, and silver frames with silver lenses.
With the Merry’s Unisex Polarized Aluminum Sunglasses, you’ll have high-end style and excellent protection for your eyes without having to spend a fortune.
- Polarized lenses provide 100 percent UV protection, cut glare, and offer excellent visual acuity
- Vintage style is classic and suitable for men and women with all faces shapes
- Available in a variety of color combinations
- Plastic frames are lightweight, yet durable
- Very affordably priced
- Comes with a convenient storage case
Ray-Ban Rb3025 Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses
Another option from Ray-Ban is their Rb3025 Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses. Since they’re made by Ray-Ban, you know that they’re well-designed, durable, and offer excellent protection.
They were originally designed in 1937 for American pilots, but since then, they have become a beloved style of sunglasses among people of all walks of life across the globe. The updated style offers the same classic style but is designed for modern day wearers and look great on both men and women with all types of face shapes.
The frames are made of lightweight metal, so they’re reliably durable and extremely comfortable. These sunglasses feature Ray-Ban’s Evolve photochromatic lenses, a treatment that allows gradual change of color from a lighter shade to a darker shade within a three minute period of time when they’re exposed to UV light.
- CLASSIC AVIATOR SUNGLASSES: Protect your eyes with style made famous by aviators since 1937. Ray-Ban RB3025 Large Metal Aviator Sunglasses are superior unisex glasses with multiple frame and lens options.
- POLARIZED SUNGLASSES: RB3025 Aviator sunglasses feature legendary Ray-Ban polarized lenses originally designed for military use, which improve clarity while reducing glare and eye-strain. Made of high-quality, scratch-resistant glass.
- 100% UV PROTECTION: These aviator sunglasses were made famous by Top Gun. You can feel comfortable knowing that the Ray-Ban lenses will provide 100% UV protection.
- UNISEX SUNGLASSES: Whether you’re looking for Ray-Ban sunglasses for women or men, RB3025 Aviators are designed as unisex sunglasses that are durable and fashionable.
- MULTIPLE FRAME AND LENS COLORS: With a variety of metal frame colors to choose from, including gold or silver, see the world through a variety of polarized lens colors—all of which provide optimal visual clarity and 100% UV protection.
Within five minutes of being removed from UV light, the lenses gradually change back to their original color. There are several different color options to choose from, but do note that some models feature non-polarized lenses, so if you want ultimate protection for your eyes, make sure you select an option that has polarized lenses.
Stylish, reliable, and offering fantastic protection, the Ray-Ban Rb3025 Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses are an excellent choice.
- Durable metal frame
- Classic unisex aviator style
- Features Ray-Ban’s Evolve lenses
- Polarized lenses offer 100 percent UV protection
- Available in an assortment of colors
- Lightweight and comfortable fit
- Durable construction
- Works on all face shapes and sizes
- Three different lens widths available: 58 mm, 55 mm, 62 mm
Sojos Small Square Polarized Sunglasses
These polarized sunglasses from Sojos offer a unique shape, are suitable for men and women, and of course, polarized lenses. The small size offers the perfect coverage for your eyes while the polarized high-definition UV400 lenses offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection.
The lens width measures 51 mm and the bridge width is 20 mmm, so you’ll have just the right amount of coverage. The frames are made of lightweight, yet durable metal and feature a beautiful embossed pattern. PC, anti-allergy nose pads are suitable for al l face shapes and ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
- Polarized HD lenses filter out glare and UV rays to protect your eyes
- Ultra-lightweight metal frame weighs only 0.09 lbs for comfortable wear
- Versatile unisex sunglasses suitable for outdoor activities and daily wear
- 51mm lens width, 20mm bridge width for secure fit
- Gift-ready package includes pouch, cloth, box for easy storage and cleaning
High-quality hinges with firmly placed screws further add to the durability and reliability of the frames. There are 10 different color options to choose from, some of which feature colored mirrored lenses that further adds to the visual appeal.
These sunglasses come with a convenient storage and cleaning case and they’re very affordably priced.
- Durable and lightweight metal frame features an embossed design
- 51 mm lens width and 20 mm bridge
- High-definition UV400 TAC polarized lenses blocks out 100 percent of all UVA and UVB rays
- Classic style
- Unisex design
- Available in 10 different color combinations
- Comes with a carrying and cleaning case
- Features PC nose pads for enhanced comfort
- Durable hinges
- Affordably priced
Faguma Sports Polarized Sunglasses
For athletes who are looking for a pair of polarized sunglasses, this option from Faguma is a great choice. While they’re advertised for men, they can certainly be worn by women, too.
The frames are made of lightweight and durable plastic and the design is perfect for sporting activities, as they’re comfortable, sturdy, and will remain securely positioned in place during physical activities. The lenses are treated with TAC polarization, so they offer 100 percent UV protection and eliminate reflected light and scattered light while also cutting glare.
The lenses and frames are polycarbonate, which means they’re impact and scratch resistant and virtually unbreakable, which further makes them suitable for heavy use, as they’ll easily withstand all types of wear and tear. Soft silicone one-piece nose pads offer increased comfort and won’t irritate the skin.
- HD POLARIZED LENS：Offering UV400 Protection,eliminate reflected light and scattered light,cut glare and protect eyes perfectly.
- ULTRALIGHT,STYLISH,DURABLE：Lightweight design is ideal for usage by motorcycle and cycling,driving,running,fishing,climbing,trekking or other outdoor activities enthusiasts.stylish design,with rich color combinations of frames and lens.
- Best Customer Service：Any questions about our products,please contact us.We will provide the best service until our customers are satisfied.
The skidproof design ensures these sunglasses will stay in place. They offer a sporty look and feature a stainless steel logo on the sides to create a high-end look, and there are 11 different color combinations to choose from.
To round out the features, the Faguma Sports Polarized Sunglasses come with a hard-shelled zippered storage case that features a wrist strap for easy carrying.
All of these incredible benefits, and these polarized sunglasses are affordably priced, too.
- Designed for sports use
- Features TAC polarized lenses that offer 100 percent UV protection and eliminate reflected and scattered light and reduce glare
- The lenses and frames are scratch- and impact-resistant
- One-piece soft silicone skin-friendly nose pads for increased comfort
- Ultralight skidproof design ensures they stay in place and is comfortable for all-day wear
- Sporty style can be worn by both men and women
- Available in a variety of color combinations
- Comes with a hard-shelled storage case
- Backed by a 30 day money back guarantee
- Affordably priced
Kate Spade New York Women’s Dalia 2 Aviator Sunglasses
Next on our list of the best polarized sunglasses are from Kate Spade New York, a highly regarded designer. These sunglasses feature the classic, retro-inspired aviator style that works with all face shapes and sizes and has a timeless look that will go with everything in your wardrobe.
The metal frames are durable, yet lightweight to ensure long-lasting comfort. The bridge measures 20 inches and the lenses measure 58 mm. The lenses are made of high-grade plastic and are treated with a reliable UV protective coating that blocks out 100 percent of all UV rays.
- RX-able
- Metal frame; Polycarbonate lens
- Polarized
- 100% UV protection coating
- Branded case included
The lenses have a warm gradient fade that adds to the style and ensures clear vision while cutting out glare. Available in three different color combinations, including light gold/gray gradient, light gold/brown, and red gold/brown, you’ll be able to find an option that will perfectly suit your taste.
These sunglasses come with a cleaning cloth and pouch, too.
- Vintage aviator design
- Lightweight and durable metal frame construction
- Polarized lenses offer 100 percent UV protection
- 58 mm lens width
- 20 inch bridge
- Available in different color combinations
- Stylish design works well with all face shapes and sizes
- Comes with a cleaning cloth and storage case
Other Best Selling Options
- HD Polarized Lens: To prevent your eyes from the harmful UV rays, all of KALIYADI mens sunglasses polarized choose premium polarized lenses with UV400 protection function. You can be free all the time under the sunlight without worrying about the of damage to your eyes from both UVA, UVB and glare. KALIYADI mens polarized sunglasses restore true color of the world and making it more clear and soft
- Classic Rectangle Design: Rectangular frame design is the most classic style never go out and a sign of fashion. KALIYADI sunglasses for men polarized can matching almost all the clothes and give an attraction to almost any outfit both for men and women, making you stand out from the crowd
- High Quality Material: Premium Rectangular frame, anti-scratch polarizing lens, adjustable metal spring hinges and integrated nose pad make KALIYADI sunglasses men polarized uv protection more lightweight and durable. All these details of sunglasses polarized ensure the customer have a comfortable wearing experience
- Perfect All Round: KALIYADI mens sunglasses is the perfect choice for outdoor sports and activities such as walking, cycling, driving, fishing, travelling , hiking due to the lightweight and classic design. it is also suitable as fashion accessories and daily wear all year round
- Gift Ideas Package and Brand Customer Service: Classic sunglasses*3, microfiber pouch*3, microfiber glasses cleaning cloth*3, gift box*1. KALIYADI sunglasses men are also gift packed, which will be great gifts for your family and friends! All KALIYADI customers enjoy brand customer service for our polarized sunglasses men. The integrity of every box and the quality of the lenses are double checked by third-party companies. And that goes with a lifetime support
- HIGH-DEFINITION POLARIZED LENSES – SojoS's HD TAC polarized lenses can filter out sunlight reflected glare, and protect your eyes from long-term damage by blocking 99% of UV rays
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS – These SojoS round polarized sunglasses are made of high-quality plastic frames, UV400 lenses, solid metal hinges, all the details ensuring you a long time using. These stylish sunglasses are suitable for both women and men and suitable for any climate and weather conditions.
- FASHION UNIQUE DESIGN – These SojoS sunglasses are the perfect choice for outdoor sports and activities such as shopping, driving, walking, traveling, and are suitable as a high fashion accessory and daily wear all year round.
- PRODUCT DIMENSION – Lens Width: 48mm(1.89inches) | Lens Height: 42mm(1.65inches) | Temple Length: 147mm(5.79inches) | Nose Bridge: 18mm(0.71inches).
- GIFT IDEAS PACKAGE – Sunglasses*1, microfiber pouch*1, microfiber cleaning cloth*1, glasses box*1. It is also a gift packaged ready, making it a wonderful yet practical gift idea for friends and family!
- 【UV / Polarized TAC Lens】UV400 Protection Coating Blocks 100% of Harmful UVA, UVB & UVC Rays up to 400nm, Restores True Color, Eliminates Reflected or Scattered Light, Enhance Contrast, Anti-glare to Make Your Eyes More Comfortable. TAC Lens are Extremely Impact-resistant, Scratch-resistant, Lightweight and Durable.
- 【Lightweight TR90 Frame】The Cool Black Unbreakable Sunglasses are Made of Premium TR90, Ultra Light Weight, Flexible, Durable, Produced Through Swiss Technology as a Resilient Thermoplastic Memory Material. Non-slip Nose Pads are Comfortable & Skin-friendly. Unique Flex Hinges Design, Don't Press Head.
- 【Perfect all Rounder】The Square Frame Design is Classic & Everlasting Fashion Style for Men. Moreover, It Adds more Sport Elements. It's Choice for Driving, Fishing, Climbing, Running, Hiking, Cycling, Skiing, Boating or Other Outdoor Activities. BEST WISHES GIFT - Specially Designed for Urban Fashion Men. Nice Gift Package, Making it a Wonderful Gift Idea for Your Family and Friends. These Sun Shades Glasses are Suitable for 70s, 80s, 90s.
- 【Product Dimension】Lens Width: 60 MM(2.36 inches) | Lens Height: 45 MM(1.77 inches) | Temple Length: 140 MM(5.51 inches) | Nose Bridge: 18 MM(0.71 inches) | Frame Length: 140 MM (5.51 inches).
- 【Risk Free After-Sale Service】Lifetime Breakage Warranty on Frame & Lens and 30 Day Money Back Guarantee.
- [100% UV400 Protection]: Our sports sunglasses feature HD polarized TAC lenses that offer full protection against harmful UVA, UVB and blue light, avoid the occurrence of glare. keeping your eyes safe and comfortable in even the brightest conditions. The TAC lens and frames are impact resistant, scratch resistant,flexible, durable and unbreakable.
- [Fashion Sports Design]: Experience the perfect fit with SUOSO sports sunglasses—engineered to contour seamlessly to your face. Our rubber nose pads and flexible temples ensure a customized, secure fit, preventing slippage and providing unparalleled comfort during even the most intense activities. Elevate your performance with sunglasses designed to stay in place and enhance your vision.
- [Ultra Light Frame]: Our frames are made from high-quality PC material that is both lightweight and durable. The rubber nose pad ensures that the sunglasses stay in place, even during intense physical activities.
- [Multi-Purpose Sport Sunglasses]: Our sunglasses are versatile and suitable for a range of sports and activities, include driving and cycling, motorcycle, running, fishing, climbing, hiking or other outdoor activities enthusiasts.
- [Excellent After Sales Service]: We stand behind our products and offer excellent after-sales service. If you have any issues with your sunglasses, our friendly customer service team is always available to help.
- NO SLIP: We use a special grip coating and silicone nose inserts to construct our frame to help eliminate slippage when sweating.
- NO BOUNCE: Our frame is snug and lightweight, with a comfortable fit to prevent bouncing while crushing any workout.
- ALL POLARIZED: We use glare-reducing, polarized lenses with UV400 protection that blocks 100% of those harmful UVA and UVB rays.
- ALL ORIGINAL: A classic frame shape with timeless appeal, our original style that will always be IN. (Unlike those heinous trends of the ‘00s.)
- ABOUT GOODR: In 2015, goodr was created to solve a problem: running sunglasses were expensive, ugly, and over-engineered. To solve this, we set out to design a pair of running sunglasses that were affordable, stylish, and all-performance. And so, goodr was born. BOOM. Problem solved. You're welcome.
Polarized Sunglasses Buyer’s Guide
It’s no secret that the protecting your skin from the harsh UV rays of the sun is extremely important. While you slather on the sunscreen and don wide-brimmed hats to protect your skin from the sun, there’s another vital part of your body that is just as sensitive to and can be damaged by the sun: your eyes.
Why Choose Polarized Sunglasses?
The sun emits three types of UV radiation, and that radiation can damage the sensitive cells in your eyes. The damage the sun causes to the eyes is cumulative, meaning that the effects happen over a prolonged period of time and the damage usually doesn’t surface for years.
Experts have stated that isolating the specific amount of damage that UV radiation causes to the eyes is difficult to isolate; however, several studies have concluded that the impact builds up over time and can increase the risk of developing vision and eye health problems later on in life. Among the more serious problems that can occur include:
- Cataracts: A clouding of the eyes that occurs gradually and eventually, it can destroy vision.
- Pterygium. Often referred to as “surfer’s eye”, this condition is marked by a soft, fleshy overgrowth of the clear layer on the surface of the eyeball and inside the lids of the eyes, known as the conjunctiva.
- Pingueculae. A growth on the conjunctiva that appears as a chalk-like or yellowish color that extends across the cornea, it’s believed that pingueculae can develop into pterygium.
- Eye cancer. Excessive exposure to the UV rays of the sun can result in squamous cell cancer of the conjunctiva, or eye cancer. It can result in visual loss, and in severe cases, it can result in eye loss, too.
- Macular degeneration. This eye disease can lead to the loss of central vision that occurs progressively. Blurred vision is the initial effect, but as the condition progresses, it can result in blindness.
The above are just some of the reasons why protecting your eyes from the sun is important. Donning a pair of sunglasses is the best way to shield your eyes from the damaging rays of the sun.
While a pair of cheap drugstore sunglasses may be able to slightly shield your eyes and stop you from squinting, but they won’t protect your eyes from the long-term effects that your vision can potentially suffer. Fortunately, there is a way to both protect your eyes from sun damage. How? – With polarized sunglasses.
How do they Work?
Polarized lenses are treated with a chemical that is specially made to filter out light. The molecules in this chemical are lined up in such a way that they block some of the UV rays of the sun from passing through the lenses. These lenses can be equated to a blind handing on a sun-filled window.
With a blind, light only passes through the vertical openings in that can be seen; the same thing happens with polarized lenses. The chemical that’s applied to the lenses acts as a filter, and only rays of light that can pass through the vertical openings in the glasses and reach your eyes; in other words, for example, only the horizontal light waves that bounce off of a smooth surface of water will reach your eyes.
Because of the filtration, the images seen through polarized sunglasses are a little darker than they would appear through non-polarized lenses; however, the images you’ll see will be clearer and crisper, making it easier to see. The use of polarized sunglasses, especially over a prolonged period of time, not only prevent your eyes from becoming strained, by they can also prevent serious long-term damage.
Now that you’ve seen our top picks for the best polarized sunglasses, you’re probably wondering which option to choose. In this section, we highlight some of the most important features that you should take into consideration when you’re shopping for a pair of sunglasses. These features will help you determine which pair of sunglasses will work best for you.
Uses of Polarized Sunglasses
First and foremost, consider how you will be using the sunglasses; for example, will you be using them for everyday wear, such as while you’re driving, walking, or lounging poolside, or will you be wearing them while you’re playing sports, boating, or fishing.
Different designs are better suited for different activities. For you’re going to be wearing them for sports activities, for instance, a pair of sunglasses that are specifically made for sports use would be a better choice than a classic style.
Polarized Sunglasses Materials
You’ll also want to consider the materials that the frames and lenses are made of. Frames are usually made of plastic or metal, such as polycarbonate (plastic) or steel (metal). The material that the frames are made of will impact the durability and fit. The lenses can be made of glass or plastic, such as polycarbonate.
Glass lenses offer the best viewing quality and are more scratch-resistant than plastic, but they are prone to shattering and tend to be more expensive. Plastic lenses are lighter weight and impact resistant; they can be treated with a scratch-resistant coating, too. While they don’t have the same viewing quality as glass lenses, they are more durable and less expensive.
Polarized Sunglasses Styles
Of course, you’ll also want to consider the style of the sunglasses. There are a variety of different styles to choose from, with classic options, like aviator, and trendier designs, such as cat’s eye. The shape of your face will determine which style will look best on you; for instance, aviators tend to look best on round and angular faces, while round frames usually look best on round faces; however, you can choose whichever style you feel will work best for you.
In addition to the shape, the color of the classes impacts the style. Sunglasses are available in an assortment of color combinations; for instance, black lenses with black frames, or blue frames with gray lenses, and those are just a few examples. Choose a color that speaks to your taste and style and that will tie into your wardrobe. If you have the budget to do so, you might want to consider investing in a few different styles and colors so you can switch things up.
Polarized Sunglasses FAQs
Are polarized sunglasses worthwhile?
We think so. Because they offer such great sun protection, they can prevent your eyes from becoming damaged by UV rays.
Are polarized sunglasses more expensive than non-polarized sunglasses?
It depends on the glasses you choose; there are plenty of polarized sunglasses that are much less expensive than sunglasses that have non-polarized lenses.
Can I wear polarized lenses while driving?
Yes! In fact, they’re ideal for driving, as they reduce glare, which means you’ll be able to see the road better.
Conclusion
Polarized sunglasses protect your eyes from the harsh UV rays of the sun and with regular wear, they can minimize the risk of long-term eye and vision damage. There are so many different types of polarized sunglasses on the market. With the information presented in this guide, you should be able to find the best pair of polarized sunglasses that will suit your specific taste, style, and budget and that will offer the best protection for your eyes.
