How to tell if your sunglasses are polarized?

The heat waves and endless fun that summer promises are just around the corner. You can make the most of the carefree vibes of this season by exploring the outdoors. When you do, you should have a trusted pair of sunnies in your bag, preferably the polarized kind. This type of glass offers an additional shield for the eyes and provides better vision.

The development of polarized lenses

Polarized sunglasses refer to eyewear with lenses that have a specialized filter. This layer eliminates glare that reflects off certain surfaces like roads, water, or snow. The light concentrating on the surface produces a glaring effect, which makes it harder to see clearly.

Polarized sunglasses are the brainchild of American inventor Edwin H. Land in 1935. This eyewear answered the call for a pair of glasses that could reduce glare and improve visual clarity. Polarized sunnies righted several visual difficulties found in older eyewear designs.

The creator of this type of glass eventually developed Polaroid Corporation and made significant leaps in the industry. Polarized lenses were utilized in aviator sunglasses, which became the staple eyewear for pilots, and later for the public.

Are your sunglasses really polarized?

When buying sunnies, it’s crucial that you select a pair that provides the best protection for your eyes. Choosing polarized lenses is a good decision, especially if you plan to stay outdoors for long periods.

That said, it's important to check whether the pair you select truly has these specialized filters. Here are a few ways to tell if your sunglasses are polarized.

1.Testing on a reflective surface

On any flat, shiny surface like a mirror, hold a flashlight on it to produce some glare. Move the sunglasses away slightly from your face. Then, tilt the eyewear sideways at about a 60-degree angle to see if the anti-glare feature is effective or not.

Afterward, look directly through the sunglasses to inspect whether they block glare or not. Sunglasses with these lenses in place will reduce the glare significantly, helping you see more clearly.

2.Comparing to new polarized sunglasses

If you already have a pair of this eyewear, you can use it to compare your new pair. Hold them 1-2 inches apart, the polarized pair closer to your line of vision. Then, face the two sunnies towards any bright light.

Then, move the glasses sideways at a 60-degree angle and notice how objects look through the lenses. The overlapping section should look darker; otherwise, the pair in question is not polarized.

3.Looking at the computer

Max out the brightness of your computer screen and try to open a blank document with a white background. Wear your sunglasses and move left to right while tilting your head. A polarized pair should make the document appear black. This effect is because the lenses and a computer’s typical anti-glare feature will cancel out.

Are polarized sunglasses better?

While polarized sunglasses cannot promise 100% protection against ultraviolet rays, you can still get plenty of benefits from wearing them. For one, polarized lenses can help you get clearer vision, especially when out in a brightly lit environment. It can also promote a more accurate vision, which will keep you safe, especially outdoors.

It’s best to invest in a pair of these sunnies rather than buying a pair without this filter. As it reduces glare, these sunnies can help you visualize your surroundings crisply.

Polarized sunglasses for men

Now that you know how to tell if sunglasses are polarized, it’s time to pick a pair that works for you. Here are the top designs for men that are on trend today!

1.Ayza Square Sunglasses

The simple frame of the Ayza Square Sunglasses coupled with clean lines make it a luxurious piece. This pair is a sure head-turner once you wear it as you go about your day. Match it with a casual or formal outfit and look a million dollars wherever you go.

2.Colt Oval Sunglasses

The handsome pair of Colt Oval Sunglasses are a top polarized pair that you can purchase. The slim, geometric frame is very much on the trend today, giving your style the spruce it needs.

3.Brody Oval Sunglasses

Another oval choice, the Brody Oval Sunglasses, offers a great contrast to typical sunnies. This eyewear has a patterned accent for the bottom rims, and a solid upper frame. Overall, these sunnies are a must-have for the summer.

4.Bayla Square Sunglasses

The bold and daring Bayla Square Sunglasses are a man’s best friend outdoors. You can get great coverage against sunrays while also allowing you to see the environment and all its colors accurately.

5.Rabih Aviator Sunglasses

Take a classic design and make it modern and you get the Rabih Aviator Sunglasses. The round lenses of this piece coupled with the sleek frame create an extra stylish vibe to your getup.

Polarized sunglasses for women

Get your pair of polarized sunglasses specifically designed for women. These chic and stylish pairs are some of the best picks in today’s trends list!

1.Adnan Aviator Sunglasses

A blend of classic and modern, the Adnan Aviator Sunglasses are an instant hit for the ladies. This pair has the perfect balance between fun and functional eyewear, with polarized lenses that offer an unhampered vision for you.

2.Raymond Square Sunglasses

The block design of Raymond Square Sunglasses featuring a transparent frame is an absolute stunner. This pick is summer personified, injecting a vibrant aura to your outfit.

3.Desery Square Sunglasses

When choosing polarized lenses, it’s a wise choice to go for big and bold. Desery Square Sunglasses feature a thin frame and gradient tints that define a stylish and protective piece.

4.Zona Cat-eye Sunglasses

You might think the Zona Cat-eye Sunglasses have small lenses, but it more than makes up for the design. This ultra-chic pair exudes an elegant vibe that can complete your high-end look.

5.Efah Oval Sunglasses

If you’ve had enough of the usual, you can buy the Efah Oval Sunglasses. This unique and trendy piece has heart-shaped lenses and a rimless frame, with gold accents that add novelty to the design.

Shop Polarized Sunnies at Lensmart

Visit Lensmart today and browse through a great collection of polarized glasses to wear this summer. Let this guide tell you how to tell if sunglasses are polarized and get your pair from our trusted e-store!

More articles:

8 best polarized sunglasses for men & women

Polarized lenses: types, pros and cons

Polarized vs non polarized sunglasses, which are good for you?

How to buy the best prescription sunglasses?

Ultimate guide to buying the best sunglasses for your face shape

Polarized sunglasses explained: good to wear it all the time?