Choosing The Right Winter Sunglasses
The winter season may bring shorter days and chillier weather, but don’t let that fool you into thinking the low-hanging winter sun can’t irritate your eyes. Reflections from shiny surfaces like snow and ice can make winter sunlight just as intense as the summer sun.
While you might not be pulling out your sunbathing gear anytime soon, the colder months are still the perfect time to safely make the most of the sun with a stylish pair of sunglasses. Not only do they make a fabulous addition to your winter wardrobe, but they also offer pivotal eye protection from UV and offer visual comfort from the sun’s rays.
In this blog, we’ll explore this season’s must-have lens types and share some expert tips to help you pick the perfect winter sunglasses for making the most of those crisp, bright winter days.
Sunglasses: a key winter accessory
If you’re heading out for a winter walk or off to the slopes, you’ll probably make sure a hat, scarf and gloves are at the top of your packing list. But what about sunglasses? Many people forget that sunglasses are just as necessary for protecting your eyes against the winter sun as they are during the summer.
Snow and ice might look magical, but they’re also seriously reflective—snow can bounce back up to 90% of the sun’s light! If you’re not protecting your eyes, this can lead to something called photokeratitis (aka snow blindness). Essentially, it’s like a sunburn for your eyes, caused by UV rays reflecting off shiny surfaces like snow or ice. Popping on a pair of shades when you’re out in the winter does more than just stop the squint—it’s a simple way to keep your eyes safe and happy!
Driving is another winter activity where the sun can cause a few problems. With the sun sitting lower in the sky, its rays can create intense glare and reflections off glossy surfaces. This doesn’t just mean snow and ice but also bodies of water, wet roads and car windscreens. Plus, when driving in winter, the sun is more often in your direct line of sight, making its rays feel more intense. Together, this can lead to distractions and eye strain, which can make driving less safe.
While sunglasses can do wonders for improving your cold-weather wardrobe, more importantly, they safeguard your eyes from distracting light and offer UV protection.
Polarised sunglasses explained
Polarised sunglasses contain a special lens designed to reduce glare caused by light reflecting off those shiny winter surfaces we mentioned earlier.
The lenses feature a distinctive coating that filters out horizontal light waves, which are the main cause of glare while allowing vertical light waves to pass through.
As a result, everything will appear clearer, sharper and more comfortable to look at, especially in bright outdoor conditions. This makes them particularly beneficial for cold-weather activities where glare can impair vision, like skiing, snowboarding and winter road trips.
Polarised lenses are available in a range of hues, such as grey, brown, and green, each offering an exceptional visual experience.
For instance, grey lenses are perfect for bright, sunny conditions, making them an excellent choice for outdoor activities like skiing, where glare from the snow can be intense.
Brown lenses enhance contrast and depth perception, especially in low-light situations such as overcast days. This makes them particularly beneficial for hiking or skiing when visibility is reduced.
Finally, green lenses improve contrast without distorting colours, making them ideal for cycling or driving.
The benefits of photochromic glasses
Photochromic glasses have lenses that automatically adapt to the environment based on changes in light exposure. But how exactly do they work?
When exposed to UV light, which is found in natural sunlight as opposed to artificial lighting, the lenses darken. However, once indoors or in lower-light environments, they gradually return to a clear state.
This adaptability makes them ideal for winter activities, where outdoor light conditions can shift rapidly from sunny to overcast or when you frequently move from an outdoor to an indoor setting.
In addition to their practical benefits, photochromic lenses offer a stylish aesthetic that perfectly suits the fashion-forward wearer. How so? With a range of colour choices, which means they can effortlessly complement a variety of winter wardrobes.
At Optikal Opticians, we offer the latest photochromic lens technology with Transitions® GenS™ lenses, available in 8 stylish colours. So why not match your lenses with your frames for the ultimate attention to detail and tailored look? And all while enjoying the superior convenience of lenses that adjust to your surroundings.
Wraparound sunglasses for winter
When it comes to winter sports, wraparound sunglasses are a must-have for your eyewear collection. Designed for extensive coverage, they shield your eyes from wind, snow, peripheral glare, and other harsh conditions you encounter during the colder months.
Whether you’re skiing down slopes, snowboarding through fresh powder, or hiking snowy trails, these sunglasses provide reliable eye protection so you can focus on the adventure. Their dynamic design exudes a sporty edge, adding a bold touch to your outdoor look. Plus, the secure fit ensures they stay perfectly in place, no matter how active you get.
Practical, stylish, and built for performance—wraparound sunglasses are the ultimate companion for any winter sport.
Come and explore our sunglasses collection today
To browse our extensive range of sunglasses, visit us at one of our opticians in Potters Bar, Temple Fortune or Finchley. Our friendly staff look forward to helping you find your favourite winter shades so you can enjoy the season in both safety and style.