Which is Better: UV or Polarized Lenses

When choosing sunglasses, it’s helpful to understand the difference between UV protection and polarization. Both features offer unique benefits that can enhance comfort and clarity outdoors. In this guide, our Sunglass Experts explain what sets them apart to help you find the right lenses for your needs.

What are UV Rays?

Sunglasses with 100% UV protection are made to block out the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays aren’t visible to the eye but can cause lasting damage to both your eyes and skin. There are three kinds of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

Ultraviolet A (UVA) – With longer wavelengths, UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and eyes. Over time, they can contribute to wrinkles, premature aging, and increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions.
Ultraviolet B (UVB) – Shorter in wavelength, UVB rays mostly affect the outer layers of the skin and eyes. They’re the main problem behind sunburns and can also lead to skin cancer and eye damage.
Ultraviolet C (UVC) – UVC rays have the shortest wavelengths and are the most harmful, but they are absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and do not reach our bodies.

Lenses with 100% UV protection are designed with coatings or materials that block both UVA and UVB rays, helping keep your eyes safe and comfortable in bright conditions.

How is Polarization Beneficial?

Polarized sunglasses are specifically designed to cut down glare from surfaces like water, snow, glass, and other reflective areas. Glare occurs when light waves from the sun or other sources bounce off flat surfaces and line up in a horizontal pattern. This concentrated, intense light can cause discomfort, strain your eyes, and reduce how well you see. Polarized lenses work by blocking these horizontally aligned light waves while letting vertical light waves pass through.

The polarizing filter in the lenses is typically a vertically oriented chemical film. When horizontally polarized light hits this filter, it’s blocked from passing through, which significantly reduces glare reaching your eyes. By filtering out this horizontal light, polarized lenses boost visual clarity, ease eye strain, and enhance comfort in bright, reflective environments.

Note: It is best not to use them with LCD screens.

Which is better for you?

While UV protection and polarization can be combined in a single pair of sunglasses, they cannot be added after the fact. Protecting your eyes from UV rays is the most important factor for long-term eye health, so if you have to choose, always prioritize sunglasses with 100% UV protection. Wear them anytime you’re outdoors, even on cloudy days.

Glare, on the other hand, doesn’t cause lasting harm, but it can cause discomfort and light sensitivity. If you notice light sensitivity while wearing UV-blocking lenses, it’s likely due to glare which is something that polarized sunglasses are designed to reduce.

Ultimately, neither feature is better than the other; the right choice depends on your specific needs and how you use your sunglasses. If you have more questions, stop by your local SCHEELS and talk with a Sunglasses Expert.