The Winter Essential: Polarized Sunglasses

When we think of sunglasses, we often associate them with summer and protecting our eyes from the bright sun. However, polarized sunglasses are just as important in the winter, especially when it comes to outdoor activities. In this article, we will discuss the importance of polarized sunglasses in winter and why they should be a staple in your winter wardrobe.

Person wearing a yellow jacket, red hoodie, black beanie, and sunglasses standing in a snowy landscape.

What are polarized sunglasses?

Before we dive into the importance of polarized sunglasses in winter, let’s first understand what they are. Polarized sunglasses have a special filter that blocks intense reflected light, reducing glare and improving visibility. This is especially useful when engaging in outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or even driving in snowy conditions.

Protection from UV rays

One of the main reasons why polarized sunglasses are important in winter is because they provide protection from harmful UV rays. Just because the sun isn’t as bright in the winter, doesn’t mean it’s not emitting UV rays. In fact, snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, which can cause damage to your eyes. Wearing polarized sunglasses can help protect your eyes from these harmful rays and prevent long-term damage.

Reduced glare

Man wearing a beige jacket, black backpack, sunglasses, and smartwatch, kneeling in a snowy outdoor setting.

As mentioned earlier, polarized sunglasses have a special filter that reduces glare. This is especially important in winter when the sun is lower in the sky and can create intense glare off of snow and ice. This glare can be blinding and make it difficult to see, which can be dangerous when engaging in outdoor activities. Polarized sunglasses can help reduce this glare and improve visibility, making it safer to participate in winter sports or even just drive on snowy roads.

Improved contrast and depth perception

Another benefit of polarized sunglasses in winter is improved contrast and depth perception. The filter in polarized sunglasses helps to enhance colors and make objects appear more defined. This is especially useful when navigating through snowy landscapes, as it can be difficult to distinguish between different shades of white. With polarized sunglasses, you can see more clearly and have a better sense of depth, making it easier to navigate through snowy terrain.

Polarized mirror sunglasses

For those who are looking for even more protection and style, polarized mirror sunglasses are a great option. These sunglasses have a reflective coating on the outside of the lenses, which not only reduces glare but also adds an extra layer of protection from UV rays. They also come in a variety of colors and styles, making them a fashionable choice for winter activities.

Orange-soled boot kicking towards the camera in a snowy forest.

 

Anti-Fog polarized sunglasses

Adding an anti-fog coating to the lenses of polarized sunglasses can be a great way to prevent fogging and moisture buildup, especially during winter sports and activities. This coating works by creating a hydrophilic layer on the lens surface, which helps to disperse moisture and prevent it from forming droplets that can obstruct your vision.

Man wearing a black Burton sweater with a mountain logo, sunglasses, and a yellow beanie in snowy surroundings.

In conclusion, polarized sunglasses are not just for summer. They are an essential accessory for winter activities and can provide protection from UV rays, reduce glare, and improve contrast and depth perception. Consider investing in a pair of polarized sunglasses, or even polarized mirror or anti-fog polarized sunglasses, to keep your eyes safe and comfortable during the winter months.

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About the Author: Frankie Marina

With over 15 years of experience in the optical industry, Frankie Marina is a seasoned optician who has held various roles, from General Manager overseeing optical labs and collaborating with eye doctors to her meticulous position as Final Inspector ensuring the precision of each ordered pair of glasses. Throughout her career, she has refined her expertise. Frankie’s skills include troubleshooting vision errors and curating frames for high-profile VIP clients, effortlessly blending functionality with style. Today, as a dedicated optician with Zenni Optical, Frankie is committed to helping people see better and live better by sharing her wealth of knowledge and discover eyewear solutions that not only promote clear vision, but also instill confidence.