Winter sunglasses are considered unnecessary by many people. During the preparation for a new season, we typically change our wardrobe to accommodate the changing weather. The most common association we have with sunglasses is the sunny beach during the summer months. Wearing sunglasses in winter is considered strange by many of us. It is important to note, however, that this is an entirely incorrect statement as UV rays continue to cause damage to your eyes. It does not matter what time of year it is, sunglasses remain an essential item.

1. Avoid exposure to UV rays by wearing sunglasses

UV radiation from the sun can cause skin damage. You are probably aware of this. You may also risk developing several medical conditions if you are exposed to too much UV rays. In the winter months, the sun is lower in the sky, which results in a stronger concentration of UV rays. That’s true, I must admit. Winter is still a crucial time to protect yourself against UV rays (if not even more so).

In addition to providing reliable 100% UV protection, each of our sunglasses options will assist in protecting your eyes. There are three types of tints available: dark, gradient, and polarized. As an alternative, Transitions® lenses are available, which automatically adjust to the lighting surrounding you. There are different types of sunglasses that are suited to different activities, so based on what you do most often with your sunglasses, you can determine what is most appropriate for you.

Our Ask the Optician video below provides a more detailed explanation of UV protection.

Ensure the prevention of future eye diseases

When exposed to UV rays for an extended period of time, you are more likely to develop diseases including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), corneal sunburn (also known as snow blindness), cataracts and skin cancer around the eyelids. You can protect yourself from UV rays with sunglasses. It is also possible to prevent premature wrinkles from developing around your eyes by wearing sunglasses.

Avoid snow blindness

Skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities are all fun during the winter months, which is why you should invest in a quality pair of sunglasses. An eye condition caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays, snow blindness can be described as a sunburn of the eyes. This is a temporary condition that can be uncomfortable for a few days. We often experience this problem in winter when surfaces such as wet roads and snow are more likely to reflect light.

Our regular sunglasses will protect you against bright sunlight when you wear them in the snow. As an alternative to polarized sunglasses, we would recommend wearing sunglasses that block out blinding glare reflected from snowy surfaces in these conditions.

Take precautions to protect your eyes from the elements

Winds are often colder during the winter months. You may have noticed that your eyes produce tears when a sharp blast of cold air is blown into them. It is important to note that cold air can’t hold as much moisture as warm air, which results in your tears evaporating quickly, causing your eyes to become dry and uncomfortable. Consequently, dry eyes may result. It is important to protect your eyes from sharp winds during the winter by wearing sunglasses. This will minimize the evaporation of your tears, ensuring that your eyes remain moist naturally.

There is also the possibility that dust and debris can enter your eyes during very strong winds in order to scratch or injure them. The fit and security of sports sunglasses from brands such as Oakley and Harrington Sport can not be overstated. The sunglasses are ideal for those facing harsh weather conditions, as they stay securely on your face and protect your eyes from all directions.

Reduce the reflection of light

Wet and icy surfaces reflect sunlight, as previously stated. Glare is the reflection of sunlight that can seriously impair your vision and make it difficult for you to see clearly. The first thing you should do if it begins to rain or snow outside is to make sure you have the appropriate pair of sunglasses available.

The winter sun can be harmful, so it is important to wear polarised sunglasses. This type of footwear is especially suitable for outdoor activities and winter sports. You should ensure that your eyewear is anti-glare.

Make sure you drive safely

You can also reduce distractions caused by blinding glare while driving during the daytime by wearing sunglasses. Make sure that you and other road users are safe. Those who are interested in driving should consider Transitions® Drivewear® lenses, which are specifically designed to enhance their driving performance. Their performance is unaffected by the weather conditions, whether it is overcast or sunny.

A gradient tint is an ideal option for driving during the day, as the top of the tint is dark and fades to a clearer shade as the tint descends. In the top section, your eyes will be protected from the sunlight overhead, while in the lower section, you will be able to see and navigate your dashboard more easily.

Ensure that you do not experience eye strain or headaches

When the light levels are high, our pupils narrow in order to minimise the amount of light reaching the retina. It is important to note, however, that when bright light is suddenly reflected off of a surface such as snow, our pupils do not have enough time to narrow and so we squint our eyes, resulting in straining of the eyes.

It is recommended that you use our light intelligent photochromic lenses, which are automatically adapted to changing light conditions. Whenever you move outside, they convert into convenient sunglasses from a pair of fully transparent glasses. As a result, you will not have to carry between sunglasses and glasses everywhere you go in the winter. Adaptable lenses provide protection both indoors and outdoors.

Consider purchasing anti-reflective glasses

When the weather turns cold during the winter, opt for one of our affordable lens packages instead of wearing sunglasses. The anti-reflective and anti-UV coating is included as part of our Gold, Platinum, or Diamond packages. Thus, you will be provided with a pair of glasses that will keep you protected from harmful UVA and UVB rays, as well as eliminate problematic reflections and glare. It is particularly beneficial for those who are driving at night because the lenses will reduce the amount of reflected light from nearby cars’ headlights.