Polarized Lenses VS Regular Sunglasses

Summer is in full swing, and it is getting hotter by the minute! With all the heat and humidity that cloaks Boca Raton, comes intense sunlight. 

 

Now is when you should have a great pair of sunglasses. 

 

If you plan to start your day at Hillsboro Inlet and end up at Mizner Park for dinner, polarized lenses are in order.

 

So what is the best kind of eye protection from the Florida sun?

 

Today, we aren’t talking about the dizzying array of frames and manufacturers out there. 

 

Today we are talking about lenses: polarized lenses VS regular lenses. 

 

What’s the difference and does it really matter?

 

Boca Opticians is located on West Palmetto Park Road. We take great pride in providing South Floridians the best experience when it comes to purchasing eyewear. Our boutique offers high-end glasses with the best prices around.

What are polarized lenses?

These lenses protect you from the sun’s UV rays and just as important, the glare. This kind of lens has a special coating on it that helps reduce glare. The sun’s light reflecting off surfaces and water is what causes glare. This happens when the light bounces off from these surfaces and enters your eyes, interfering with your vision. Your eyes will squint and tear up, forcing you to look away.

 

The special coating applied to polarized lenses neutralizes the glare. You will see objects ahead of you more clearly without distortion. It will also improve your depth and color perception. 

 

As with regular lenses, they also protect you from harmful UV rays.

 

What is the difference between the two lens types?

Regular sunglass lenses are designed to limit the sunlight that passes through the lens vertically and horizontally. Because of its special coating, polarized lenses absorb horizontal light and reduce the vertical sunlight that passes through. 

 

This makes the light pass through the lenses in one direction, instead of two. With only one way for the light to enter your eyes, glare is eliminated.

The pros of wearing polarized lenses.

For many Boca Raton residents, the outdoors is why we live here. Being outside means being in the sun. Polarized lenses are made to enhance your vision while still protecting your eyes. Spending your weekend at the beach, pool, or on the water is much more enjoyable with these sunglasses.

 

The great thing about polarized lenses is that they can help indoors as well. If you suffer from light sensitivity, a pair of these glasses will fit the bill. 

 

Cataract surgery patients can also find great relief from wearing polarized lenses. It also helps those who work indoors where sunlight is cast through windows all day.

 

The main benefits from wearing polarized lenses are:

 

• Glare reduction
• Protection from UV rays
• Increased contrast
• Better color perception
• Sharper images
• Reduced eye strain from squinting
• Better general visual comfort in sunlight

The cons of wearing polarized lenses.

As with anything in life, you have pros and cons. 

 

With that being said, there are instances where polarized lenses might not be ideal. There are times when the reflection from glares is needed. 

 

The FAA recommends that pilots not use polarized lenses as they could interfere with visibility through the cockpit window. LED and LCD screens are also hard to view when wearing these types of glasses. 

 

Believe it or not, you could have trouble reading the display on a gas pump. This also applies to cellphones as well as GPS devices.

Options other than polarized lenses.

If you find that polarized lenses are not ideal for your lifestyle, consider the following options:

 

• Mirrored sunglasses
• Photochromic lenses (transition lenses)
• Blue lenses
• Polycarbonate lenses
• High index plastic lenses (UV only protection)

Where to find the best-polarized lenses on the market.

Whether you choose to go with a polarized lens or regular sunglasses, Boca Opticians has it covered! We can help you find the perfect pair of glasses to fit any need. 

We also provide repair and fitting services. Stop by today or give us a call at (561) 725-7860. You can even take a look before coming in by taking a virtual tour of our shop!