A Guide To Picking High Quality Polarized Sunglasses

Sunglasses provide eye protection against the rays of the sun. They are available in various styles and densities. Care in choosing the right sunglasses is a sensible move, regardless of the budget constraints and level of protection needed. The type of work and level of sunlight the wearer is exposed to are important factors in selecting the right pair of sunglasses. Read on to learn more about the benefits and considerations of high quality polarized sunglasses for women and men.

Anyone who spends a great deal of time outdoors should be aware of the extended protection needed for eyes to maintain health, clarity and focus. Some professions, such as pilots, are more regulated than others. Polarized sunglasses may not be the right fit for pilots, because they interfere with windscreens and device displays. People who engage in outdoor work, such as gardening, recreational activities like fishing, or sports such as tennis also need adequate eye protection, and may prefer polarized sunglasses. High quality sunglasses, whether they are polarized or non-polarized, offer immediate protection against glare and UV rays, and ensure that vision is protected over the long term.

Polarized lenses have applied chemicals that filters light entering the eyes. The chemical molecules are aligned in a way that blocks a portion of the light entering the lens. Only the light that can pass through the molecules reaches the eyes.When choosing eye protection from the sun's rays, consider VLT, filters, compatibility with helmets or head gear, coatings, and materials used.

Visible Light Transmission (VLT)

Visible Light Transmission is the amount of light which comes through the lenses and reaches the eye itself. A higher VLT results from less tint on the lens, so that more light comes through the lens and reaches the eye. A lower VLT indicates a darker tint, and more light is blocked from reaching the eye. A VLT as low as 9% means the lens is very dark; only 9% of visible light passes through the lenses. Pilots flying into the sun need this level of VLT in order to safely operate planes and other vehicles on land, or in the air.

Lens Filters

Polarized sunglasses and notch filters block some parts of the optical spectrum and let other ranges through, sharpening contrast. The sharper vision fields help to define objects, even when the wearer is moving. Sharp contrast is especially important when operating machinery in the sunlight or reading gauges and dials.

Filters are essentially invisible. They are built into the lenses themselves to limit or eliminate the amount of light which enters the eyes. Polarized lenses do more than reduce glare, when made well, they also make images appear clearer and sharper, as well as increase comfort and visual clarity.

Lens coatings and how they help eye protection

Method Seven offers a range of non-polarized and polarized sunglasses with high-quality coatings. These are engineered to improve clarity and color balancing, as well as eliminate glare. Metal buildings, headlights, and other shiny surfaces can cause glare, temporarily blinding anyone who is not protected with appropriate eyewear. Method Seven lens coatings block harmful ultraviolet lights, absorb infrared heat, balance color, and improve clarity.

Ultraviolet A and Ultraviolet B protection

Long wave Ultraviolet A light comprises about 95% of the UV light that reaches the eyes. The remaining 5% is Ultraviolet B light, the portion of the ultraviolet spectrum that causes sunburn. Eye protection must be effective against both UVA and UVB light. Effective eyewear blocks or limits both infrared heat energy and ultraviolet rays.

Style, Appearance and Composition

Appearance is often the first factor wearers consider before purchasing a pair of quality sunglasses. However, men and women should seek out the highest quality eye protection for their particular needs. Fortunately, there are many styles to choose from that offer maximum eye protection.

A number of design components contribute to the style of each pair of sunglasses. These include ear pieces, temple or arms, frame, and lenses. Earpieces can curve around the ears, or rest on top of them. The arms can extend all the way back to the back of ears, or attach to ear pieces. Frames are made of various materials, including plastic or metal. The weight of construction material will affect comfort.

Lens shapes can vary from one design to another. Oval, round, and rectangular are all common lens shapes. The frame shape typically mirrors the shape of the lenses. Frames are made of various materials and colors. Metal frames, such as titanium, are well known for their strength and durability. Nose pads are a common feature, and are one of the areas that receive the most complaints if not carefully selected. Poorly designed nose pieces can irritate sensitive skin along the bridge of the nose, or cause pressure and pain from improper adjustments.

Lens color can make a style statement as much as the shape of lenses. As discussed, the VLT level indicates whether the lens is dark or light. Too much light coming in from the side of lenses may affect the level of protection.

High quality sunglasses are an investment in your eyes. The right sunglasses can prevent eye strain and improve the long-term eye health.