Eyeglasses Blog: Polarized Sunglasses Guide. How and When to Buy and Not to Buy

Many people wonder what is polarized sunglasses, why they need them and why they cost more. Many people have a perception that polarized sunglasses are better than non-polarized, but they can't explain why.

What is polarized sunglasses anyways?

Without going into scientific explanation polarized lens is a lens that cuts horizontal glare. In other words is it made with a special filter inside that blocks optical waves that cause reflections on the surface. If you are driving for example you may see lots of light reflection on the surface of your car or side windows and mirrors. Through polarized lenses you will not see this glare. So polarized sunglasses are sunglasses that have polarized lens.

Polarized sunglasses Prada SPR 61L

Who needs polarized sunglasses?

When you read about benefits of polarized sunglasses you may be wondering it's a no brainier to get them. However if you don't spend much time driving, fishing, yachting or skiing you may not notice a difference. This is because under normal outside conditions you don't see much glare, on the street or back yard for example. You see lot's of glare when you are staring at the water, lake or an ocean for example. Driving is a separate topic. People divide between those who believe polarized glasses are good for driving and those who don't. Polarized lens interferes with car wind shield that has UV coating (most modern cars do). You will most likely see a rainbow when turning your eyes sideways if you are looking through polarized lens. Some people hate this and think that they would rather deal with the glare than with the annoying rainbow. But if you are surrounded by snow or water, polarized lenses will be very beneficial for your eyes. Your eyes will feel less strained and seeing will be an easier job for them.

Polarized sunglasses Boss 0413

Why polarized sunglasses are more expensive?

The process of manufacturing polarized lenses is much more complex than in manufacturing regular lenses. Here is detailed explanation: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polaroid_(polarizer)
Expect to pay $10 to $50 for polarized sunglasses than regular sunglasses depending on where they are made.

Will polarized sunglasses prevent from seeing digital screen?

Yes, polarized sunglasses will prevent from seeing digital screen such as phone, iPhone, laptop, GPS etc. If you bring polarized sunglasses close to digital screen and turn them 90 degrees, at about 45 degrees you will see how screen turns darker and eventually, at about 90 will go completely black. If you understand how polarized sunglasses are made, you will understand why this is happening. In short, polarized lens is cutting horizontal reflection and digital screen is nothing else but a screen with light reflections on it. Of course when polarized sunglasses were first invented there was no digital screens, so they became an instant hit. In today's world polarized sunglasses are not as popular mainly due to higher price and inconvenience of looking at digital screens for example.