When choosing sunglasses, style and fit are just two considerations. You'll also want to think about polarized vs. non-polarized sunglasses to choose the best lens for your lifestyle. While both options can protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, polarized lenses have a special coating that filters horizontal light rays and reduces glare.
This guide discusses the differences between the two to help you choose the perfect pair of sunglasses for you.
What Are Polarized Sunglasses Lenses?
Polarized sunglasses have a special coating that filters light and reduces glare when you're outdoors on a bright day. Their special filter specifically blocks horizontally polarized light, which is the source of glare from reflective surfaces like water, asphalt and snow. At the same time, the filter allows vertically polarized light to pass through, providing better contrast and making the outdoors appear crisp and clear.
Benefits of polarized sunglasses include:
- Reduce glare, enhancing your vision in bright and reflective environments.
- Improve contrast and clarity.
- Reduce eyestrain and fatigue on bright days.
- Enhance vision for water sports, driving and snow activities.
What Are Non-Polarized Lenses?
Non-polarized lenses are a type of sunglass lens that can reduce the overall intensity of sunlight. They usually have a standard tint, along with dyes or pigments that can absorb and reduce the amount of light that reaches the eye. Most are made from plastic or glass, and some offer UV protection to protect your eyes from long-term sun damage. Overall, non-polarized lenses can give you consistent shade, helping with light sensitivity so you can see more comfortably on sunny days.
Benefits of non-polarized sunglasses include:
- Basic protection from sunlight and UV rays.
- Consistent shade and reduced light intensity.
- Several affordable options.
Key Differences Between Polarized and Non-Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized and non-polarized sunglasses differ in terms of:
- Glare reduction: Polarized sunglasses can reduce the glare you notice on reflective surfaces like roads, water and snow. In contrast, non-polarized sunglasses only lower overall brightness and are less effective at handling glare.
- Light filtering: Polarized lenses can be more comfortable for people with light sensitivity, filtering out brightness and helping with vision. In comparison, non-polarized lenses only give basic light reduction and shade.
- Visual clarity: Polarized sunglasses can make your surroundings clearer and colors more vibrant on bright days, while non-polarized lenses will only reduce the overall brightness.
- UV protection: Both options can offer UV protection, since this is a separate coating that's not inherent to polarization. Just be sure to double-check the label on the sunglasses to make sure.
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Cost: In terms of cost, non-polarized sunglasses tend to be more affordable than polarized ones.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lens
To choose the best lenses for you, consider the following factors:
Your Lifestyle
Consider your lifestyle when picking out the right sunglasses lenses. For example, polarized lenses are usually the better choice if you live in a warmer climate where it's sunny most of the time. If you drive often or spend most of your time boating and swimming, polarized lenses can reduce the glare reflected from the water or the sand at the beach. They also make a great fit for cyclists, reducing glare from the road.
In comparison, if you spend less time outdoors, often look at screens or are in situations where seeing light reflections is important, non-polarized sunglasses might be a better option. Polarized sunglasses can make it hard to read LCD displays or instruments, so pilots or anyone who operates heavy machinery would likely want to opt for non-polarized lenses. Non-polarized lenses might also be better sports sunglasses for skiers since they allow wearers to see reflections from icy patches on slopes.
The Specific Activity
You might also choose your lens to fit the specific activity of the day or those you do most often. For activities on a bright day, polarized lenses are usually the preferred option since they can reduce eyestrain and make it more comfortable to see. Many people use polarized sunglasses for outdoor activities like hiking and hanging out on the beach or by the pool, for example.
While there are many benefits of polarized sunglasses, they aren't ideal in some situations. For example, when you're looking at an LCD screen, these glasses can make it hard to see information. Also, polarized lenses can filter out the glare reflected from ice, making it harder to see icy patches on the road while driving.
Personal Preference
In the end, your choice of lenses will come down to personal preference. Many people might only wear polarized sunglasses for driving or if they know they'll be out in bright sun for an extended time. Others might opt for non-polarized sunglasses when they're lounging on their patio or on overcast days when it's not too bright. Consider the comfort level you want or the practicality of the lenses for your lifestyle.
Whether you decide on polarized or non-polarized sunglasses, remember to check if they offer UV protection. The sun's rays can harm your eyes in the short and long term. Choose a pair that's stylish, comfortable and offers protection for your needs.
Browse Custom Prescription Sunglasses Options
You can find both polarized and non-polarized prescription sunglasses designed specifically for your vision needs and lifestyle. An eye care professional can help you choose the prescription and perfect lens type for your needs. At Eyemart Express, we offer the following options to customize your sunglasses:
- Photochromic lenses: Also known as transition lenses, our photochromic options shift from clear indoors to tinted outdoors — ideal if you're always on the move.
- Polarized lenses: We offer polarized sunglasses that can reduce glare, increase visibility and give you high-quality UV protection that's perfect for sunny days.
- Mirrored lenses: Our mirrored lenses, with their reflective coating, provide even more protection from glare and UV rays. They're best for outdoor enthusiasts, athletes and adventure seekers.
Whether you're a morning commuter battling glare or always in search of your next adventure, Eyemart Express can build the perfect sunglasses for you, no matter what life calls for.
Get Personalized Eyewear Solutions at Eyemart Express
When choosing between polarized and non-polarized eyewear, consider your lifestyle, favorite activities and your personal comfort preferences. At Eyemart Express, we'll help you find the perfect sunglasses for your lifestyle, whether you're a sports or adventure enthusiast or simply need a prescription pair that adds comfort on sunny days. Our expert team will help you choose from an extensive collection and customizable options, making sure you get the best eyewear to protect your eyes and enhance your vision.
Browse our available sunglasses online or visit us at any of our locations across the U.S. for a personalized recommendation from our friendly team.
