Why Can't Pilots Wear Polarized Sunglasses?
Polarized light travels in both horizontal and vertical directions. Horizontal light creates glare by bouncing off of surfaces, causing horizontal reflection. Polarized sunglasses have filters that minimize horizontal reflection, allowing only vertical light to pass through to the eye. However, polarized sunglasses may not be the most suitable pilot eyewear.
When selecting pilot sunglasses, make sure to consider the following features:
Polarization
Polarized sunglasses may not be the best choice for the cockpit. Polarization interferes with windscreens and digital devices, producing rainbow swirls, black squares, and other distortions. This is because device screens and windscreens already have anti-glare features. When combined with polarized glasses, excessive filtering creates problems with visibility.
The best glasses for aviators are those that are non-polarized, like Method Seven’s SKY and FLT product lines. Polarization is one of the most important things to consider when choosing pilot sunglasses.
Tint
When it comes to tint, consider not only the color of the lens, but also how images appear when you look through them. Choosing glasses that allow you to see things in their native color will enhance visual performance and reduce color distortion.
Blue, violet, and neutral grey lenses keep the eyes relaxed, provide better contrast and reduce glare.
Red, brown and green lenses can also increase contrast; while orange, amber and yellow lenses produce sharper vision. Though these lenses can make images appear warmer and more tropical; they often cause color distortion in natural environments.
The amount of tint matters, as it affects the amount of visible light that reaches the eye. Too little tint results in too much brightness. On the other hand, too much tint makes it hard to see clearly in the cockpit without removing your glasses.
Ultraviolet Protection
Choose lenses that provide 100% ultraviolet protection. All of Method Seven’s lenses provide complete protection from UVA, UVB, and UVC light.
Lens Material
Glass, polycarbonate, and plastic are all materials commonly used to make lenses. The type of material affects things like scratch resistance, quality of the optics, weight, and impact resistance.Consider whether it’s most important to you to have a lightweight accessory or one that will not break easily. If optical quality it your primary concern, a glass lens is the best choice.
Corrective Lenses
Some classes of pilots are prohibited from wearing contact lenses. Therefore, some aviators in need of corrective lenses must choose sunglasses with corrective lenses built in. If vision correction is required, polycarbonate lenses are a better option than those made from glass.
Photochromic Lenses
Photochromic lenses darken when exposed to bright light and lighten when exposed to dark light. These lenses are not recommended for pilots as it can take some time for them to lighten again after being exposed to dark conditions.
Compatibility With Other Devices
Make sure that sunglasses used for flying are compatible with other equipment you will use in the cockpit. Aviator sunglasses should fit comfortably while wearing headsets, helmets, and oxygen masks. Method Seven pilot sunglasses are compatible with devices commonly used in the cockpit.
Check the Frames
Choose the frame most suitable one for you.Aviator frames are the most popular; however, there are many different options available for flight sunglasses. Method Seven provides frames with classic aviator styling as well as wrap around frames for additional coverage. Your choice will come down to personal preference and functionality.
Fit
A good pair of aviator sunglasses should fit you well and not constantly fall off of your face. A good fit will ensure that the glasses aren’t displaced during turbulence, or when performing aerobatic maneuvers such as flying sideways or upside down.
Gender
In general, women can wear the same style of glasses worn by men. However, women’s glasses should be smaller in size. Method Seven designs aviator sunglasses for both men and women. A popular pair of aviator glasses for women are the Aviatrix SKY Sunglasses, which are specially designed for women’s faces.
Coatings
Various coatings can be applied to sunglass lenses in order to block residual UV radiation, to increase the lifespan of the lenses, enhance optical clarity, and make them easier to clean. The coatings must be applied correctly in order to be effective. Make sure to choose high quality sunglasses with precisely applied coatings, like those manufactured by Method Seven.
Availability
Take your time choosing a trusted seller or credible manufacturer. If you cannot find a trusted retailer near you, consider buying the products online and having them shipped to you. You can always rely on Method Seven as a trusted brand. We design our glasses in the USA, using the latest technology.
Cost
Given that the lenses you choose will protect your eyes from harmful UV light, it is well worth the extra cost of high quality sunglasses.Consider purchasing more than one pair, so that you have a backup pair readily available in the event that your sunglasses become damaged or lost. In addition, different styles or tints may be more appropriate for different flying conditions.
Conclusion
When buying high altitude sunglasses, don’t take chances on your eyes. Invest in high quality products, and consider them as valuable tools in your flight kit. Met
