By: Rebecca Compton-Hall

Sales Associate at Clearview Eyewear

 As we head into fall and winter, you might think it’s time to put away your sunglasses along with the shorts and sandals. But, not so fast. Harmful UV rays don’t disappear in the winter and there’s actually a lot of glare that emanates from snow and ice. You should actually wear your sunglasses all year long.

So, it’s still worth purchasing a good pair of sunglasses even though summer is over. Those shades will help protect you from developing various eye conditions that contribute to vision loss as you age. Besides finding a pair with full UV protection, here are some other tips to help you achieve the best performance from your sunglasses.

Look for good coverage

Sunglass frames tend to be a bit larger than regular glasses so this is helpful when trying to get good coverage. Some sunglasses also have a bit of a curve or wrap. However, if you need prescription sunglasses, you might be more restricted in terms of the size and curvature of the frame. For example, depending on your prescription, a larger frame could mean thicker lenses, and a curve that is too severe could create distortion on the periphery. Don’t be too concerned though; a reputable eyewear provider, like Clearview Eyewear, can help you navigate these considerations.

Find the right colour and tint

The first thing you should determine is the colour of tint you would like in your sunglasses. This is a personal decision because it depends on what your eye prefers. Grey tints keep things looking darker all the time. So it might feel “gloomy” when it’s overcast but it might feel more restful to you in direct sunlight. Grey tints are more neutral; they do not distort or enhance colours like other tints. Brown or rose tints, on the other hand, keep things looking a bit brighter while still cutting glare. These tints tend to be a bit more versatile in various lighting conditions, but they can also distort or enhance colours.

Consider polarization

The next thing to determine is whether you would prefer polarized or non-polarized sunglasses. Polarization provides maximum glare cutting, but it can also distort images. For instance, car windshields can appear “checkered” or a screen display might seem discoloured. Polarized lenses also tend to be lighter in colour. Alternatively, a dark tinted non-polarized lens will still cut glare, but not to the same extent as a polarized lens. However, opting for a non-polarized lens will often lower the overall cost.

Many people consider sunglasses to be a staple of their summer wardrobe. You reach for those shades when the sun is out in full force, but don’t put them away when the temperatures start to drop! Find ones that provide maximum protection and performance and wear them all year round. You’ll be doing yourself a favour. A good pair of sunglasses is a year round investment that will pay dividends.