Buying Polarized vs Non Polarized Sunglasses

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Polarized sunglasses have become increasingly popular in recent years. Most retailers specializing in sunglasses today carry styles in both polarized and non-polarized versions. However, because polarized lenses cost anywhere from $20 to $40 extra, many people still opt for regular lenses. But are polarized glasses worth the money? What exactly makes them special and how do they differ from non-polarized lenses?

Origin

Polarized lenses were built to block the glare that's caused by refracted light. They were originally used by boaters and fishermen because it helped the see despite the glare from the water around them. Bikers, joggers and outdoors enthusiasts soon started wearing polarized sunglasses as well.

What's different about polarized lenses?

Non-polarized sunglasses rely on shaded lenses to block light. However, glare resulting from light reflected by smooth flat surfaces can get past regular, shaded lenses. Polarized sunglasses, however, are designed to block reflected glare.

How do they do this? The answer is fairly simple. Light reflected off flat surfaces becomes horizontally polarized. By being vertically polarized, polarized lenses can block horizontally polarized glare, which can not only be annoying, but also dangerous when it impedes clear visibility. For example, while driving along long, flat stretches of road in the daytime, polarized prescription sunglasses can help you see more clearly and drive more safely by eliminating road glare and glare coming off the hoods of other cars.

Are there any cons to polarized lenses?

Polarized lenses can be problematic when looking at LCD screens, as these tend to become invisible when looked at through polarizes sunglasses. The problem can be remedied easily though, by simply removing your sunglasses when looking at ATM screens, lap tops, and other kinds of LCD displays.

A more serious consideration is the fact that polarized lenses might not be the best option for skiers and snowboarders, since in addition to reducing snow glare, polarized lenses also reduce visibility in the snow, which can be very dangerous, as going at high speeds and being unable to distinguish hazardous snow patches can result in accidents. The level of visibility reduction, however, also depends on the color of shades you're wearing.