Ultraviolet rays from the sun are incredibly damaging to our eyes contributing to the development of both cataract and Age-Related Macula Degeneration. According to World Health Organization, 20 percent of cataract cases are avoidable with proper UV eye protection.
When sunlight is reflected from a horizontal surface, like land, water or the bonnet of a car, it is often reflected back horizontally, producing a very strong glare. For us, it means that ground reflections cause a lot of interference with our vision when walking, driving or on the water.
Normal tinted sunglasses lenses provide protection against both vertical and horizontal UV rays. However, they don’t diminish the glare from reflected horizontal rays. Polarized glasses have a built-in, laminated filter that permits only vertical light rays to pass through, and almost totally blocks horizontal rays to eliminate glare without making the world seem excessively dark and gloomy.
When driving, especially in the summer, horizontal rays of light constantly bounce off the road, increasing eye fatigue and discomfort. You can instantly reduce this glare with polarised lenses. Anglers can get a more accurate look at fish habitats as the polarisation almost eliminates reflections off the surface of the water. For sailors, windsurfers and others on the water, this can prevent accidents as they are able to perceive underwater obstacles, and the more complex movement of underwater currents.
We should all wear our sunglasses more to protect our eyes and enhance our visual comfort. At Jacksons we strongly recommend that anyone contemplating the purchase of new sunglasses has polarised rather than tinted lenses.