UV Protection Sunglasses
Even before James Dean ever sported his first pair of Raya perennial symbol of cool. From the latter half of the twentieth century to the present day, sunglasses have helped define stylistic trends and allowed ordinary people to look and feel (at least temporarily) like their favorite celebrities. In addition to their obvious aesthetic benefits,
sunglasses are fundamentally functional objects, designed to protect eyes from harmful ultraviolet radiation or UV rays. Now, thanks to the many advances in lens technology over the past several years, we can protect ourselves and look good doing it.
Choosing UV Sunglasses
* The first thing you must consider when choosing a pair of sunglasses is the level of UV protection. Sunglasses are classified by the amount of UV rays they obstruct, so choose a pair that obstruct 99 to 100 percent of UV raysalso categorized as UV 400 protection (UV 400 protection is equivalent to 100 percent of UV rays).
* Do not assume that sunglasses with darkercolored lenses that do not obstruct 99 to 100 percent of UV rays can expand the size of the pupil, allowing more visible light to enter the eye. Adequate sunglasses should consistently deflect 75 to 90 percent of visible light.
* Doctors recommend that sunglasses be worn outside during all daylight hours; therefore, choose a pair of sunglasses based on how you plan to utilize them, particularly in relation to environments and activities. Many sunglasses are designed for specific purposes. From the beach to the snow and pretty much everywhere else in between, you'll be able to find a pair of
UV protection sunglasses to suit your needs.
* You do not need to break the bank to find the most protective and stylish sunglasses. Many inexpensive sunglasses are equally as effective (if not more effective) than those from designer brands, and they often look just as cool.
Extra Protection Options and Styles
Our eyes are not only extraordinarily sensitive to sunlight, they are also extraordinarily different from one another. As a result, sunglass manufacturers have gone to great lengths to improve upon the UV prevention lenses found in most models. Luckily this has not meant a sacrifice of style for functionality, as many brands have found inventive ways of coupling the need for eye protection with the basic human need to look great. All kidding aside, below you will find some prominent protection options, as well as some of the most lastingly popular sunglasses designs.
'''Protection Options'''
* '''Polarized Lenses:''' Immensely popular amongst lifeguards, water sports enthusiasts, and skiers alike, polarized lenses diminish the amount of reflected glare that bounces off of smooth surfaces, like water, snow, and concrete.
Polarized lenses are also used with ski goggles and snorkeling masks.
* '''Gradient Lenses: '''Great for driving, gradient lenses are designed with darker color shades at the top and lighter color shades at the bottom; therefore, the higher up you look the more protection you are receiving. Gradient lenses are often used by pilots.
* '''Mirrored Lenses: '''Equipped with a reflective outer layer, mirrored lenses help to heighten the senses of depth perception and contrast by turning light away from the eyes.
* '''Photochromic Lenses:''' Generally used by those who employ prescription eyewear, photochromic lenses automatically change their shade based on your surroundingsthereby eliminating the need for multiple pairs of glasses.
'''Styles'''
* '''Wayfarers: '''The definition of cool, made by RayWayfarers'>Bob Dylan or the hipster kid that just walked past you down the street, you can't beat Wayfarers.
* '''Aviators: '''Tom Cruise's shades in ''Top Gun'', need I say more. These glasses were also popularized by RaySunglasses'>aviators.
* '''Oversized: '''Originally made popular by Jackie O in the 1960's, these glasses have made a resurgence spurred on by many Italian designers; they offer an extremely continental look.
* '''Teashades: '''Classic John Lennon-style glasses, easily seen on psychedelic musicians and college English professors alike.
Quick Picks
Popular Sunglasses
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Oakley
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Maui Jim
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Serengeti
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Persol
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Stevelle Matte
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Electric
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Von Zipper
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Dragon
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Smith
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Vuarnet
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Gucci
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Prada
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Dior
Related Guides
External Links
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SunGlassology.com: A clearinghouse for all things sunglasses, focusing on both the aesthetic and health reasons for wearing sunglasses, and specific mention of the benefits of sunglasses in various activities.
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AllAboutVision.com: Optometrists discuss the effects of UV rays on our eyes and the benefits of sunglasses.
