Polarized Sunglasses for Georgia Sun: What They Do and What to Look For

At a glance: Polarized lenses cut the reflected glare that bounces off water, pavement and car hoods, which makes driving, boating and golf more comfortable. Polarization by itself does not add UV protection, so look for sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays.

Glare versus UV: two different jobs

Sunglasses do two separate things. UV protection shields your eyes from ultraviolet rays linked to cataracts and other sun damage. Polarization reduces glare, the bright reflected light that makes you squint. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB, and points out that polarization does not by itself add sun protection. It also notes that darker lenses don't automatically block more UV. Read more in our post on UV protection.

How polarized lenses work

Light reflecting off a flat surface like a lake or a wet road becomes concentrated in one direction. A polarized lens has a filter that blocks light in that direction, so the harsh glare drops away while the rest of the scene stays clear. The result is less squinting and less eye fatigue on bright days.

One quirk: polarized lenses can make some phone, car dashboard and gas pump screens look dark or patchy at certain angles. Tilting the screen usually fixes it.

Maui Jim and PolarizedPlus2

Maui Jim got its start in the 1980s selling sunglasses on Ka'anapali Beach in Lahaina, Maui. Its PolarizedPlus2 lenses are its signature. According to Maui Jim, they eliminate 99.9 percent of horizontal glare, block 100 percent of UVA and UVB, and use a blend of rare earth elements to boost color and contrast. Maui Jim offers several lens materials, including SuperThin Glass for the highest optical clarity and lighter, more impact-resistant materials such as MauiPure and MauiBrilliant.

What to look for in sunglasses

• 99 to 100 percent UVA and UVB protection, or a "UV400" label.
• Polarization if you drive, fish, boat, golf or spend time near water.
• Coverage. Larger or wraparound frames block more light from the sides.
• Your prescription. Clip-ons and wearing sunglasses over glasses are a compromise. Prescription sunglasses, including progressives, let you see clearly at every distance in the sun.

Prescription sunglasses

Many Maui Jim frames, along with many of our designer sunglasses, can be made with your prescription. Our opticians can also tint lenses in our in-house lab to turn almost any frame into a matching pair of sunglasses. See why a luxury frame deserves a luxury lens. Polarized lenses are for daytime; for headlight glare after dark, read our post on night driving glasses.

Browse our sunglasses collection, or stop by our Alpharetta optical and our opticians will show you the polarized and prescription sun options in stock.

Frequently asked questions

Do polarized sunglasses protect against UV?

Polarization reduces glare. UV protection is separate, so check that the lenses block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB.

Are darker sunglasses better for my eyes?

Not necessarily. Darker lenses don't automatically block more UV. Check the UV label.

Can I get Maui Jim sunglasses in my prescription?

Many Maui Jim frames can be made with prescription lenses. Our opticians will check your frame and prescription.

Visit Reimbold Eye Group in Alpharetta

Ready for clearer, more comfortable sunny days? Book online or call 770-776-9000. We are at 4180 Old Milton Pkwy 1-D, Alpharetta, GA 30005, open Tuesday to Thursday 10 am to 6 pm, Friday 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday 9 am to 2 pm.