If you’re shopping for a new pair of sunglasses, you may wonder whether to pick polarized or non-polarized lenses. Both can be good options for blocking harmful UV rays, but there are a few key differences. Let’s discuss this more in-depth.
Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses
The main difference between polarized and non-polarized lenses is that polarized ones reduce glare from bright sunlight and reflective surfaces. They also counteract bright surface glare.
Polarized lenses contain a special chemical that blocks out bright light that reflects off smooth surfaces. Like non-polarized lenses, they also reduce ambient light.
Conversely, non-polarized lenses reduce the overall intensity of light by treating all light equally. Sparkles, shimmers, and glare may still bother your eyes in certain conditions, such as snow or water.
Where to Buy Sunglasses
- Biggest Selection: GlassesUSA
- Fastest Delivery: EyeBuyDirect
- Best Independent Retailer: Warby Parker
Where to Buy Sunglasses
Biggest Selection: GlassesUSA
Fastest Delivery: EyeBuyDirect
Best Independent Retailer: Warby Parker
When is it Better to Use Polarized Lenses?
If you spend a lot of time on the road or by the water, polarized sunglasses would be better. These will help deflect bright glares from asphalt and calm water.
Polarized lenses can also reduce glare and the amount of light that reaches your eyes. It can reduce eye strain and potentially reduce tiredness.
Finally, these lenses can make images crisper and cleaner. Overall, you should consider getting polarized glasses when you are:
- Driving in daylight
- Biking
- Jogging
- Fishing
- Boating
- Skiing in snowy conditions
When are Non-Polarized Lenses Better?
Polarized lenses can make LCD screens difficult to read. Because of this, pilots are advised to wear non-polarized sunglasses while flying to avoid danger and confusion when using the plane’s control panel.
Non-polarized glasses are also good if you’re reading texts from phones, ATMs, etc. Other situations where you should wear non-polarized sunglasses include:
- Operating heavy machinery
- Driving in at night low-light situations
- Reading
- Using digital screens
Non-polarized lenses are also good for skiing in icy conditions, as polarized sunglasses may make patches of ice less noticeable.
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Best Places to Buy Glasses
Best Overall
Warby Parker has stylish, high-quality frames at affordable prices.
Also Great
Liingo Eyewear is another great option to buy glasses online.
Best on a Budget
EyeBuyDirect has a wide variety of budget frames starting at $6.
Best Places to Buy Contacts
Best Overall
Discount Contacts is our #1 recommendation to buy contacts online.
Also Great
GlassesUSA has a huge selection of contacts, glasses, & sunglasses.
