Montauk Pioneer - July 4, 2008

You may have noticed advertisements promoting polarized sunglasses but do you really understand what all the fuss is about? We all know the importance of protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays, not to mention the comfort of reducing the sun's brightness on our eyes. How does polarization play out in the equation? Polarized sunglasses are manufactured using technology that blocks the transmission of horizontal light through polarized sunglass lenses. Through the alignment of vertical filters, a polarized lens allows light to vibrate in only one direction. What does this mean? Your sunglasses are now capable of reducing the glare from shiny objects, i.e. glare off of water, snow, the road, the hood of your car, etc. Polarized lenses were first invented in 1936 by Edwin H. Land, but the invention gained momentum when used by pilots to diminish glare and increase vision clarity.

Many people have reported a significant increase in comfort when wearing polarized sunglasses. You experience less squinting, eyestrain is diminished and eyesight is actually better when the glare from shimmering surfaces is reduced. Aside from the issue of comfort, decreasing glare is a safety concern. Sight is often diminished by bright glares and details can be missed or misinterpreted. Using a polarized lens decreases the likelihood of vision-distorted accidents when boating and driving. Many have found this type of eyewear indispensable for driving, skiing, boating, fishing and golfing. Here in Montauk you may find your yacht and boating outings more satisfying with fewer headaches through this simple change in eye wear. It has also been reported that many experience a greater sense of alertness when driving without the glare of the sun lulling them into a tranquil sleepiness. For those outdoor computer users, it is also possible these sunglasses can reduce the sun's glare off of a computer screen (we all know how irritating that is on a bright day).

It is important to note that polarized and UV protection is not the same thing. When purchasing sunglasses be sure your glasses block 99 to 100% of damaging UV rays in addition to having the polarized feature. Comfort is not a substitute for long term safety and damage reduction. Another component when purchasing sunglasses is price. It costs the manufacturer more to produce polarized sunglasses so it makes sense that it will cost you more to buy them. In most cases the difference can be as little as a $40 increase. If you have not tried a pair, it is assured you will notice a big difference and most find the extra cost worth it. Just in case you were concerned, they come in just as fashionable brands and styles as their non-polarized counterparts. Originally there was a yellow tint to a polarized lens but this is no longer the case and you would be hard pressed to notice a difference in current models. Most stores that sell sunglasses have polarized options to choose from, including those found locally in Montauk.

When it comes to the question of polarizing or not; I think the evidence rests on the side of polarization. Don't take my word for it - try a pair yourself and see the difference.