What are polarized lenses?
Sunlight can be absorbed or reflected in several different directions. Sunlight that is bouncing off horizontal surfaces such as water, land or the hood of a car is usually reflected back in a similar horizontal direction. This reflection produces an agitating source of glare that cannot only create visual discomfort but can also cause a potentially blinding glare. Glare has the potential to create a very dangerous situation, especially while driving. Polarized lenses contain a laminated filter that allows only vertically oriented light to pass through. This blocks the horizontally oriented light so glare is almost eliminated.
What are some advantages of polarized lenses?
Polarized lenses offer the following advantages over non-polarized lenses:
• Improves visual comfort
• Improves contrast and visual clarity
• Reduces eyestrain
• Allows for true perception of colors
• Reduces reflections and eliminates glare
Do you need polarized lenses?
Originally, polarized lenses were mainly worn by boaters and fishermen. Because a polarized lens reduces glare, it makes it much easier to see deeper into the water for viewing fish and other obstacles. Today, however, polarized lenses are enjoyed by the general public and offered in many popular sunglasses brands. Polarized lenses are beneficial for people who do a lot of driving and are also a great option for sports enthusiasts.
What are the disadvantages of polarized lenses?
Polarized lenses can be troubling for people who need to see LCD screens clearly. In fact, wearing polarized lenses can make an LCD screen difficult to read and can even make it seem to disappear completely at certain angles. Therefore, operators of heavy equipment or pilots should not wear polarized lenses. Although polarized lenses are generally recommended for snow skiers, some downhill skiers complain that they do not provide enough contrast to differentiate between patches of ice, snow and hills, presenting a danger to the skier.
However, for most other sports and activities, polarized sunglasses offer great advantages. And today, many polarized lenses are available in combination with other features that can enhance outdoor experiences.