Q. Do all sunglasses provide UV protection?
A. "UV" stands for ultraviolet light or radiation, of which UVA and UVB pose the greatest threat to eye health, and can specifically cause damage to the eye’s retina. Lenses with 100 percent UV protection absorb these rays and can prohibit dangerous UV light from reaching the eye. While everyone needs to protect their eyes, it is important to note that certain people are particularly at risk, including those who live in the U.S. sunbelt, people who've had laser, cataract or other eye surgeries, contact lens wearers, those with eye disease and finally anyone using photosensitizing medications such as tetracycline.
Q. Is there a specific number or word to look for with regards to UV protection (i.e. "blocks 99% of UVA and UVB rays")?
A. All sunglasses sold by us are manufactured by trusted sunglass brands like Maui Jim, and provide sunglasses with 100% UV lens protection. Sunglass Superstore cautions consumers against buying any sunglass products sold by unauthorized street merchants and the like, as there are no guarantees that these products are authentic or will provide the same level of UV protection. In fact, nearly all counterfeit products are more harmful to your eyes than nothing at all.
Q. Is lens color important in terms of protection?
A. Lens color alters the visible light that comes through the lens. The darkness of the tint also affects the amount of light transmitted through the lens. A darker tint means less light passes through the lens but keep in mind that the darker the tint, the more your retinas may dilate, exposing them to more of the sun’s rays. So, a really dark lens isn’t necessarily better regarding UV protection. Lens color is particularly important if you are a sports and/or outdoor enthusiast. Brown or amber lenses that cut haze and improve contrast are therefore highly recommended for outdoor activities.
Q. What are polarized lenses and when are they more useful?
A. Polarized lens include an additional filter layer which helps to block out glare. Polarized lenses are great for year-round use as they filter out reflective glare, helps prevents blind spots, enhances color contrast and depth perception. They are particularly useful and highly recommended for driving, and for snow and water activities where light reflects off surfaces, which can impair vision and cause significant discomfort.
Q. Does the UV protection ever "wear out"? Do scratched lenses effect UV protection?
A. A high quality lens should last during the normal term of wear and tear for a sunglass. Severely scratched lenses should be replaced as the UV protection could be compromised.
Q. What features are available for my glasses?
A.
Anti-reflective: A lens coating on the inside of the lens that controls reflection with a micro-thin metal oxide coating.
Clearseal: An ultra smooth, durable and protective layer that repels water, dirt and oils.
Mirrors: A shiny reflective coating on the outside of a lens that limit the amount of light entering your eyes so you feel more comfortable.
Gradients: Lens tinting or shading that is greater at the top of a lens and is lighter at the bottom, which offers protection from glare.
Polarized: A filter within the lens that blocks reflective glare, prevents blind spots, enhances color contrast and depth perception.
