Polarised or UV protection: Which is better?
When it comes to choosing a pair of sunglasses, the options are more extensive than ever. Not only do you have to select a silhouette and colourway that suits your face shape, you also have to consider the lenses and what they offer. Two options that buyers often look for are UV protection and polarised lenses. Some even mistakenly think they’re the same thing. Here, we clear up any confusion and identify which type of lens is best for you.
Polarised lenses
Polarised lenses have a laminate fused into them that is arranged in tiny vertical stripes. This only allows light that is vertically angled into your eyes. Since the dazzling reflected light from water, snow, cars or buildings comes in horizontal waves, the lenses filter these out, removing the glare and any associated interference with vision. Polarising lenses offer a range of benefits including:
1. Improved vision in bright sunshine
2. Improved safety when driving, working or participating in sport
3. Reduced eye strain
They are typically used by fishermen, athletes and snow sports enthusiasts. They can also assist with driving when there’s standing water on the road.
UV protection lenses
Lenses with UV protection have a special coating that blocks the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Although invisible, these can be as damaging to your eyes as they are to your skin, causing eye strain, cataracts, corneal sunburn (photokeratitis) and even age-related macular degeneration. UV protection lenses are specifically made to filter out UVA and UVB light, preserving the health of your eyes.
Which is better?
Both UV protection and polarised lenses have benefits for those wearing sunglasses, and the good news is that you can get lenses that offer both options. However, if you can’t obtain a pair of sunglasses with both, it’s recommended that you opt for UV protection, since it does more for the long term protection of your eyes.
In addition, if you are aiming to wear your sunglasses in overcast conditions, or you need optical glasses for working or reading LCD displays, polarised lenses aren’t recommended. This is because they reduce the amount of light that enters the eye, and can cause distortions in the way you see screens and digital displays.
Buying sunglasses
When shopping for sunglasses, be sure to check the labels carefully, or ask your optician about their protective properties. Unfortunately, not all sunglasses offer adequate UV protection, so look for those that block 99-100% of UV light. Equally, if you’re looking for polarised sunglasses in particular, check the label; otherwise, assume they’re not.
If you’re looking to buy DITA sunglasses that offer UV protection and have polarising laminate, there are plenty of options available, such as the DITA Flight Seven. Here at The Eye Establishment, our experts can help you find the perfect pair of DITA eye glasses or sunglasses to suit your style, meet your prescription needs and protect your eyes. We have a fantastic selection of DITA men’s frames and women’s frames, which you can view online or discover by visiting our boutique optician in Kensington.