The Differences between Tinted and Polarized Sunglasses

When it comes to picking the right pair of sunglasses, the choice can be overwhelming. From frame styles and lens colours to lens types, there are a lot of options available in the market. Two types of lenses which are often compared and debated upon are tinted lenses and polarized lenses.

Tinted Sunglasses

Tinted lenses are the most popular type of lenses found in sunglasses. They are made by adding a gradient of colour to the lens, which makes them darker towards the top and lighter towards the bottom. They are designed to reduce the amount of light entering the eye, which makes them perfect for bright days.

Tinted lenses come in a variety of colours such as grey, brown, and green. Each colour has its own unique benefits. For example, grey lenses reduce brightness without distorting colours, brown lenses are good for enhancing contrast and depth perception, and green lenses are good for reducing eye strain in bright light.

Advantages of Tinted Sunglasses

They are widely available in a variety of colours and styles.
They are relatively cheaper than polarized sunglasses.
They are a great option for reducing glare in bright light.

Disadvantages of Tinted Sunglasses

They do not reduce glare as effectively as polarized sunglasses.
They can distort colours, making them less effective for activities such as driving or sports.
They do not provide enough protection from harmful UV rays.

Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses are made by adding a special filter to the lens which helps to reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water, snow, and road surfaces. The filter is designed to block horizontal light waves and allows only vertical light waves to enter the eyes. This results in a much clearer view without any glare or distorted vision.

Advantages of Polarized Sunglasses

They block glare more effectively than tinted sunglasses.
They provide better clarity and contrast, making them ideal for activities such as fishing, boating, and driving.
They provide significant protection from UV rays.

Disadvantages of Polarized Sunglasses

They are more expensive than tinted sunglasses.
They can cause distortion when looking at certain digital screens such as smartphones or GPS devices.
They can be too dark for certain lighting conditions.

Conclusion

Both tinted and polarized sunglasses have their own unique features and benefits. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the intended use of the sunglasses. If you are looking for a cheaper option that reduces glare in bright light, tinted sunglasses are a great choice. However, if you want better clarity and protection from UV rays, polarized sunglasses are worth the investment.

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