We already understand the importance of wearing sunglasses, but did you know that not all shades are created equal? Polarized wooden sunglasses take things up a notch by filtering out harsh, reflected light, making a huge difference when you are in the great outdoors. But how to tell if sunglasses are polarized? There are a few simple ways to check, and knowing the difference can help you get the best protection for your eyes. Here is how to find out.
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What Are Polarized Sunglasses?
Polarized sunglasses are designed to reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and roads, making them a popular choice for outdoor activities. They feature a special filter that blocks intense, horizontally reflected light, providing clearer vision and reducing eye strain.
Benefits of Polarized Lenses
Before discussing how to tell if sunglasses are polarized, it is important to understand the many advantages of owning a pair.
- Reduces glare: Cuts down harsh reflections from water, roads, and other shiny surfaces.
- Improves visual clarity: Enhances contrast and sharpness, so details appear clearer and colors look more vibrant.
- Reduces eye strain: Minimizes squinting and discomfort, especially in bright environments, helping your eyes feel less fatigued.
- Better vision in water: Helps you see beneath the surface by blocking out the blinding reflections that come off the water.
- Helps with depth perception: Makes objects appear more defined, which can be useful for sports, fishing, or any activity that requires precise vision.
How to Identify Polarized Lenses
Check Your Polarized Sunglasses With Water
One of the simplest ways to determine how to tell if sunglasses are polarized is by using water. Place a few drops of water on the lens and observe the reflections. If you notice a rainbow-like reflection, your sunglasses are polarized.
Another effective test is to wear them while looking into a body of water. Polarized lenses reduce glare, making it easier to see objects beneath the surface.
Look for Vertical Lines
Polarized lenses are designed to block horizontal light while allowing vertical light to pass through. To test this, look at a surface with straight vertical lines, such as a building or the side of a car. If the lines remain clear while glare from other surfaces is reduced, your sunglasses are polarized.
Test With a Computer Screen
One of the most effective ways to determine how to tell if sunglasses are polarized is by using a computer screen. A simple method is to hold your sunglasses in front of an LCD screen and rotate them at a 90-degree angle. If the lenses darken or the screen appears to fade, this indicates that the sunglasses are polarized. This happens because both the screen and polarized lenses use similar light-filtering technology, causing the light to cancel out at certain angles.
Compare Polarized Lenses
Another way to check how to tell if sunglasses are polarized is by comparing them to non-polarized lenses. Polarized lenses often have a slightly different appearance, such as a unique tint or a subtle texture. When placed side by side with regular lenses, they may also reflect light differently.
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Handcrafted Polarized Sunglasses by Treehut
Want a pair that checks all the boxes? Treehut’s polarized sunglasses combine style, durability, and sustainability. They offer 100% UV protection to keep your eyes safe while cutting glare for clearer vision. Each pair is handcrafted in San Francisco from responsibly sourced wood, giving every frame a unique, natural touch. Plus, with custom engraving available, you can make them truly your own.
