3 Reasons To Get Polarized Lenses For a 2nd Pair

Polarized sunglasses are more than a fashion accessory-they’re a smart choice for protecting your eyes and enhancing your vision here in the PNW.

Whether you’re skiing down the slopes at Crystal or White Pass or fishing by a lake or in the sound, polarized lenses offer several benefits. They can be made as distance glasses or as progressives (do you like to read outdoors or on the beach in Hawaii or San Diego?

Here are three reasons to get sunglasses as a second pair:

1. Enhanced Clarity and Reduced Glare

One of the most significant benefits of polarized lenses is their ability to reduce glare. Glare occurs when light reflects off surfaces like water, snow, or pavement, making it harder to see clearly. Polarized sunglasses filter out this intense reflected light, allowing you to see more comfortably.

• While skiing: Snow can create intense glare on sunny days, making it difficult to see changes in the terrain. Polarized sunglasses help skiers spot obstacles, ice patches, or changes in the slope, enhancing safety and performance.
• While fishing: Glare off the water can make it nearly impossible to see beneath the surface. Polarized lenses cut through the reflection, allowing anglers to spot fish and underwater structures more easily.

2. Reduced Eye Strain and Better Comfort

Constant exposure to bright sunlight and glare can cause eye strain and fatigue, leading to discomfort or headaches. Polarized sunglasses minimize this strain by filtering out harsh light, providing a more relaxed viewing experience.

• Outdoor activities: Whether you’re spending a day on the slopes or casting a line, your eyes will feel less tired, letting you enjoy your activities longer without discomfort.

3. Improved Visual Contrast and Color Perception

Polarized lenses can enhance visual contrast, making colors appear more vibrant and improving overall vision in bright conditions. This is especially helpful when you need to discern subtle details in your surroundings, whether for safety or performance.

• For skiers: Polarized sunglasses help distinguish between ice and snow, enabling faster and more accurate reactions while descending the slopes.
• For anglers: You’ll be able to see ripples, changes in water movement, and fish with much greater clarity, giving you a competitive advantage.

A Word of Caution: Polarized Lenses and Screen Visibility

While polarized lenses offer many benefits, they could make it challenging to see certain digital screens. If you’re using your phone, checking your GPS, or driving a car with newer LCD or LED displays, the polarization can interfere with screen visibility, creating dark spots or rendering the display unreadable. This is something to keep in mind, especially if you rely on these screens frequently while on the go.

Polarized sunglasses are a solid investment for anyone who spends time outdoors in the PNW, especially in activities like skiing or fishing. They reduce glare, improve comfort, and enhance visual clarity, all while protecting your eyes. Just be aware that they may not be ideal for viewing some screens!