The Benefits of Polarised Lenses: See the World Like Never Before

We’ve all been there. You’re out on the water, driving with the windows down, or soaking up some sun on the beach, only to find yourself squinting like you’re staring at a spotlight. That blinding glare bouncing off surfaces like water, sand, or pavement isn’t just annoying; it’s straining your eyes, dulling your view, harming your eyes and potentially causing headaches.

 Enter polarised lenses – the sunglasses upgrade that really should be the status quo, especially here in Australia. That’s why at Ozeano, we don’t offer non-polarised lenses. Unless you’re a pilot and need to see your cockpit lights and instruments, polarised lenses are what you need to enjoy the great outdoors.Polarised lenses allow you to see the world with sharper clarity, comfort, and protection. Let’s dive into what makes these lenses worth it, the key differences between polarised lenses and non-polarised lenses, and why they’re a must for your next adventure.

What Exactly Are Polarised Lenses?

Think of polarised lenses as sunglasses with a bit of extra superpower. They have a special filter that blocks horizontally reflected light, or glare, which is especially useful around reflective surfaces like water, sand, snow, and roads. Non-polarised lenses give you basic shade, but polarised lenses? They go the extra mile, cutting glare so you can see the world clearly, comfortably, and in vibrant colour.

The Difference Between Polarised Lenses and Non-Polarised Lenses

• Goodbye Glare: Polarised lenses are designed to cut glare, making everything clearer, especially in high-reflection situations like being on the water, snowy landscapes, or the road. Non-polarised lenses don’t have the same filter, so glare hits your eyes, which can lead to eye strain and even headaches.
• Better Contrast and Color: Polarised lenses enhance colors and sharpen details, making everything look a bit more vivid. Non-polarised lenses can dim light but don’t bring out contrast and detail in the same way.
• Eye Comfort: With polarised lenses, you won’t find yourself squinting at shiny surfaces or fighting eye strain after long hours outside. 

Now, it’s worth noting that polarised lenses generally cost a bit more than regular lenses, but the difference is only slight. We’re talking a few dollars on the manufacturer’s side. So if your eyewear company is requesting an extra $50 for their polarised option, that is a little bit cheeky. We believe that there really is no other option. And this goes for kids glasses also!

 Why Should I Wear Polarised Sunglasses?

Aside from the obvious boost in clarity and comfort, there are real benefits to choosing polarised lenses. Here’s a breakdown of why they’re a worthwhile addition to your sunglass collection:

1. Better Visual Clarity - No More Squinting!

• Ever feel like you can’t see through the glare on a beach day or while fishing on the lake? Polarised lenses take care of that, filtering out the harshest reflections and giving you a clearer, more vibrant view.
• This clarity boost is huge if you’re into outdoor sports, driving, or just hanging by the water, where reflections can be intense.

2. Safety First

• Polarised lenses are especially valuable for driving. Glare from other cars, the road, or even your own dashboard can be distracting and potentially dangerous. Polarised lenses cut through this glare, helping you focus on the road.

• They’re also fantastic for water sports and snow sports, where glare can make it difficult to see obstacles. With polarised lenses, you’ll have a safer, sharper view of your surroundings.

3. Reduced Eye Strain

• Nothing says relaxation like reducing the strain on your eyes. With polarised lenses, your eyes won’t have to fight against the glare, which means fewer headaches and less fatigue – just easier, more comfortable viewing.

4. Protection from UV Rays

• While polarisation itself doesn’t block UV rays, most polarised lenses come with built-in UV protection, so your eyes are shielded from harmful UVA and UVB rays. It’s not just about comfort – it’s about protecting your eyes for the long haul.

5. Enhanced Performance for Outdoor Activities

• Polarised lenses are a game-changer for activities like boating, skiing, or even a day of beach volleyball. They let you see the ball, the waves, and all the action around you without interference from harsh light.

Watch Out for Fashion Sunglasses

Fashion brands often focus more on style than function, meaning many of their sunglasses don’t have polarised lenses. They’re usually equipped with lower-quality lenses, which don’t protect your eyes the same way. And their frames will likely be made from a cheap plastic. 
Also, make sure your lenses are Category 3, UV400. This category is perfect for bright sunlight and offers excellent UV protection. Many fashion sunglasses only come with Category 2 lenses, which aren’t designed for intense sunlight and can still let in a lot of UV rays. So, while those designer shades might look great for brunch (or not in many cases!), they’re likely no match for a day out on the boat.

Are There Times When You Might Not Want Polarised Lenses?

• Using Digital Screens: LCD or LED screens (like GPS units, car dashboards, or ATMs) can sometimes look distorted with polarised lenses. You might notice rainbow effects or darker screens, but you can easily take your sunglasses off for a second if needed.
• Pilots Beware: For pilots, polarised lenses aren’t recommended because they can interfere with seeing certain instruments and other planes. But for the rest of us, it’s clear skies ahead.
• Low-Light Conditions: Polarised lenses aren’t ideal for dusk, dawn, or indoor environments, as they reduce the overall amount of light. For evening events or low-light activities, non-polarised lenses might be better suited.

Polarised lenses are a little more expensive than non-polarised ones, but the benefits far outweigh the cost. With clearer vision, reduced glare, and better eye protection, polarised sunglasses are the ideal companion for any outdoor adventure. Just remember to check that your lenses are Category 3, and be cautious of fashion brands that prioritise looks over function – because your eyes deserve better! Chemist brands usually offer polarised lenses these days but their hinges and frames are mostly terrible quality and won’t get you through a season. 
At Ozeano we don’t believe there is any other option than a dark non-gradient polarised lens. Shop our polarised sunglasses and polarised prescription lenses today.