Sunglass Outlet Blog

The Right Lenses
The proper sunglass lens should block nearly all UV light and greatly reduce harmful infrared rays. They will also eliminate glare and bring the visible light down resulting in all day comfort on the eyes.

Light Transmission
The amount of light that goes through the lenses and reaches our eyes is light transmission.  The optimal light transmission range for sunglasses is 10% to 30%. So a lens with a light transmission of 20% would allow 20% of light to pass while blocking the 80%.

How the sunglasses will be used is most important.  On average most people do not need lenses rated less than 10%. A very dark lens may keep out more light but as conditions change, say driving in and out of dark shaded areas, visibility can be dropped to zero.

UV Transmission
For outdoor, direct sunlight activties it is always good to block at least 95% of UV light. Lower UV blockage is acceptable while driving as windshields will absorb some harmful light.

Optical Quality
The optical quality means the lens is distortion free. Non-Optical lenses create eye-straining distortions as opposed to optical lenses, the lines reflected in these lenses will follow in straight lines and through the even contours of the lens.

Your Eyes Work Hard
Seeing is a highly active function. Your eyes continually focus and adjust, receiving a constant flow of colors and visual impressions. Normally, all this activity happens routinely and without noticeable strain.

The Burden of Glare
to see well, causing eye fatigue and headaches.

The Benefits of Top Quality Sunglasses
This is why quality designed sunglasses are such an important part of our outdoor life.  They help us to see comfortably and clearly in sunlight, to counteract the discomfort caused by bright light, and to protect our eyes from glare.  This brilliant,  sometimes blinding light is intensified when it reflects off water, snow, concrete highways, glass buildings or chrome.  Glare is discomforting, causing your eyes to work harder.  Your pupils contract, your eyelids squint,  and the muscles around your eyes contract. Your eyes must work harder to prevent permanent damage that could lead to cataracts, eye diseases,  and even blindness.  Lesser quality sunglasses are often more of a danger than a help. Lenses may not provide proper protection from UV rays and glare and are often marked with blurry, irregular surfaces that distort vision, causing added eye strain and fatigue. Top quality sunglasses provide relaxed comfort and complete protection even during long exposure to harsh glare.

Year-Round Protection
Your eyes need glare protection year round. The winter sun is often brighter and snow-reflected glare can be more intense than the brightest summer day. In the mountains the sunlight can be 4 times more intense than at sea level. Damaging UV rays are present year-round and throughout all daylight hours.

Night Driving
Wearing sunglasses during the day can help improve your night driving. Exposure to strong sunlight without adequate glare protection can sharply hinder your night vision. Even a few hours of exposure can slow your eyes’ adaptation process as darkness falls.
Repeated exposure can delay this adaptation even longer and your night vision could be cut by 50% or more.