Maximizing Eye Protection: The Best Lens Features for Blocking Glare, UV, and Blue Light

Research shows that excessive ultraviolet (UV) rays entering around the frame of regular glasses can reduce the protective effect of the lenses and cause eye damage.

Wraparound Design

The wraparound shape of certain sunglasses helps prevent light from entering around the frame and reaching your eyes from various angles, offering better protection from UV rays and glare. This design provides comprehensive eye protection.

Gradient Lenses

Gradient lenses are darker at the top and gradually become lighter toward the bottom, or vice versa. These lenses help cut glare from the sky while still allowing for clear vision below. They are particularly useful for driving as they shield your eyes from bright sunlight without darkening your view of the dashboard. However, gradient lenses are less effective in reducing glare in snowy or beach environments, where the light is reflected more intensely.

Double gradient lenses (darker at both the top and bottom, with a lighter center) are more suitable for activities like sailing or skiing, where light is reflected off surfaces like water or snow. However, they are not recommended for driving, as they can make the dashboard appear too dark.

Mirror Coating

Mirror coatings are thin layers of metallic coatings applied to regular lenses. While these coatings help reduce the amount of visible light entering your eyes, they do not offer complete protection from UV radiation.

Blocking 90% of Infrared Rays

Infrared wavelengths are invisible and produce heat. Although sunlight contains a low level of infrared rays, our eyes can typically tolerate them well. Some sunglass manufacturers advertise infrared protection as a health benefit, but research has not shown a significant link between infrared exposure and eye disease.

Blue Light Blocking

The debate over whether blue light is harmful to the eyes continues. Lenses designed to block all blue light typically have an amber tint, which gives the surrounding environment a yellow or orange hue. This tint is believed to enhance clarity, especially in snowy or foggy conditions. As a result, amber sunglasses are popular among skiers, hunters, boaters, and pilots.