What Are the Best Sunglasses for Glare?

Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory. Though sunglasses come in many shapes and styles, the best sunglasses are those that provide critical protection against the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays which can be harmful to eye's surfaces and internal structure. To minimize risk of eye damage, ophthalmologist and optometrist recommend that people use of sun glasses when they are going to be exposed to the sun long enough to get a suntan or sunburn.

Shapes and Sizes

• The best sunglasses should effectively block UV rays.

  Sunglasses come in all sizes and shapes and can add additional style to completing a desired look. They can also be expensive, depending on the style and location of where they are purchased. Neither style nor cost can guarantee that your selection is the best for blocking glare. The best sunglasses that block glare are those that are treated with a specific chemical by the manufacturer or those that have specially coated lenses. The best quality sunglasses are labeled as blocking 99 to 100 percent UV rays or as UV adsorption up to 400nm.

Consider Color

• Darker sunglasses block more light.

  Color is another factor to consider when purchasing sunglasses. Dark glasses protect against glare and other hazards without disturbing vision, and they make it easier for you to see signals and street lights. The best sunglasses will block 75 to 90 percent visible light. A good technique to test if the glasses are dark enough is to view yourself in the mirror with your shades on. If you can see your eyes, then it is likely that your shades are not dark enough.

Special Features

• Select special features that best fits your needs. Polarized sunglasses cut reflective glare when sun bounces off surfaces such as pavement and water. Mirror-coated glasses reduce visible light from entering the eyes. Gradient cuts are dark at the top to cut glare from the sky and are lighter at the bottom to allow driver to have a clearer vision. Photochromic glasses automatically darken when the environment is light and lightens when the environment is dark. Special features do not guarantee protection against UV rays. Therefore it is necessary to read the label to ensure that the eyeware you select can adequately protect your eyes.

Healthy Eyes

• Children should also wear sunglasses that protects from glare.

  When you purchase the best sunglasses that block glare, you are contributing to keeping your eyes healthier. Eyes can develop cataracts, near-sightedness or various eye cancers when they are exposed to excessive lights. Therefore, it is a good practice to protect your eyes year round in all weather conditions that radiates light. In addition, parents should purchase sunglasses that block glare for their children since their eyes are sensitive to sunlight as well.