Every day we know more and more about the harmful effects of the sun on the skin and vision, polarized sunglasses are an effective and modern solution to this problem. These glasses work by considerably reducing the sun's glare on surfaces such as water and asphalt.
Their protection mechanism is very simple, they have a thin film added to the lenses. This dissipates light reflections and filters UV rays. In this way, they provide comfort and safety.
In this article we will explain in detail the advantages of wearing polarized sunglasses. In addition, we tell you all about the different types that exist and their uses. Read to the end to learn all the details and get the best out of them.
Advantages of wearing polarized sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses cover a wide range of needs, depending on the activity to be performed. Their uses can condition the color of the lenses, design, types of materials, and even the weight of the frame. Below, we explain their advantages from the uses that can be given to them:
Driving
Polarized sunglasses are vital when driving a vehicle, as your life safety and that of your fellow human beings is at stake. Wearing them while driving avoids reflections from the car itself and from the road.
They are ideal for very sunny days and for trips involving long journeys. In addition to protecting from light and reflections, they considerably reduce eye fatigue. The advantages of using polarized sunglasses for driving are many, among them, that they offer greater sharpness and contrast in focus.
Detailed, relaxed and more restful vision allows greater control of the vehicle and reduces reaction time and braking distance.
In sports
Sudden glare during sports activities is reduced with the use of polarized sunglasses. In addition, they improve clarity and comfort by providing a much more accurate view of colors.
In sports such as trail running they are useful as a reflective screen, also to protect you from possible insects in the environment. They protect you from branches on the trail and from dirt if you are in mountainous areas.
Types of polarized sunglasses
Visual demands vary according to the type of sport you practice. The types of glasses, their shades, the frame model and other details will be determined by the activity. Polycarbonate is the material usually used in the manufacture of these glasses due to its high impact resistance.
Among some of the properties of polycarbonate are the following:
- Its extreme transparency makes it a multifunctional material.
- As a protective element it has high rigidity and resistance.
- It is an excellent protector against ultraviolet rays.
- It has properties such as electrical insulation.
Polarized ski and snowboard goggles
If it is necessary to change the lens to adapt to the weather, it is best to use the so-called blizzard goggles. They are usually made of polycarbonate to avoid breakage that can damage the eyes.
Brown, pink or orange polarized sunglasses lenses have a specific purpose. They are the ideal type of glasses for sunny days and for visiting glaciers. On the other hand, to distinguish the relief in the snow on cloudy days, yellow lenses are best.
Polarized sunglasses for cycling
Polarized cycling sunglasses in general are aerodynamic and lightweight. They combat the symptoms of eye fatigue. Their use prevents blurred vision, dryness and burning of the corneas. In addition, they reduce the exposure of the eyes to the sun, avoiding the effects of ultraviolet light.
Note that polarized sunglasses can be perfectly combined with lenses formulated for astigmatism or myopia.
Polarized sunglasses and tennis
If you play tennis and have vision problems, a pair of polarized sunglasses is the solution. You should wear prescription tennis sunglasses that serve three basic functions:
- Protect your eyes from a possible ball.
- Protect your eyes from the sun.
- Correct the light graduation according to its intensity.
Not wearing the right sunglasses for this sport can cause sun damage. Take into account that in order to avoid excessive light entering the eyes, a tension is generated in the eyelids and frown. This is a natural reaction of the body and completely uncontrollable. Usually, this tendency in the player ends up producing persistent headaches.
Polarized Baseball Sunglasses
Polarized baseball sunglasses are made with TAC Polycarbonate, which protects against the sun's UV rays and impact. It is possible that over time the polycarbonate has weakened, in this case, it is best to replace them with new ones.
Certified protective eyewear is available for outfielders; there are also certified goggles for baserunners and batters. When protective goggles do not fit narrow faces, it is best to use 3-millimeter thick polycarbonate goggles.
Note that it is advisable to consult your doctor about corrective goggles if you wear contact lenses or corrective eyeglasses. Injuries caused by not protecting yourself are much more frequent than in cases where there is adequate protection. We could point out some of them:
Polarized sunglasses and beach volleyball.
In most outdoor sports, polarized sunglasses are highly recommended. In the case of beach volleyball, they are mandatory. It is not possible to follow the trajectory of the ball for competitive purposes without protective polarized sunglasses.
For the practice of this discipline, polarized sunglasses must comply with these minimum characteristics:
- To have a firm fit, that they do not move when jumping or lying on the sand, but that they are not uncomfortable.
- They should be as dark as possible, allowing them to counteract the intense ranges of luminosity to which they are exposed.
- 100% protection against ultraviolet rays.
Polarized sunglasses for children
The harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation accumulate over the years. For this reason, the use of polarized sunglasses is essential to avoid future damage. In the case of children, vulnerability is even greater.
Because the crystalline lens is almost transparent until they are 10-12 years old, they are more susceptible to retinal damage. It is therefore essential to use polarized glasses for adequate protection of children.
Prolonged exposure to solar radiation increases the risk of cataracts. In children, UV or A ultraviolet radiation can cause serious injuries.
Polarized sunglasses for the postoperative period
Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, known as LASIK surgery, is a surgical intervention in the corneal area. Its purpose is to improve the patient's vision and avoid the use of contact lenses or corrective glasses. It consists of a permanent modification of the cornea.
LASIK surgery is indicated to correct vision difficulties in cases of farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism. The use of polarized sunglasses is essential after LASIK surgery for three basic reasons:
- It prevents damage to ocular tissues by blocking ultraviolet rays.
- It decreases sensitivity to light by reducing the amount that can reach the eyes.
- The postoperative tendency to rub or scratch the eyes can be avoided by wearing glasses.
Postoperative use of polarized sunglasses should be maintained permanently for at least the first 24 hours. In any case, it will reduce light sensitivity and outdoors it will block ultraviolet radiation. Lifetime use of sunglasses is suggested whenever in the presence of sunlight.
