UV and Sunglasses
UV and glare can create a variety of issues, from dangerous "snowblindness" to irreversible diseases and disorders that can threaten your eyesight.
Visit our Sunglass Cove at any of our locations to find a wide selection of designer solutions to these problems. With brand names such as RayBan, Maui Jim, Oakley, Tiffany and Co., Zeal, Michael Kors, Nike, Under Armor, and many others, there is something for everyone!
What are UV rays? UV stands for ultraviolet, a band of spectrum invisible to the eye. Ultraviolet light consists of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. UVC rays are stopped in Earth's atmosphere before they reach the eye, but UVA and UVB can both reach the eye and long term exposure leads to damage.
How does UV affect unprotected eyes? UV rays can cause proteins inside the lens to become opaque or cloudy, a condition known as cataracts. UV exposure can also cause retinal damage, changes in the eye tissues, and a temporary but irritating "sunburn" of the cornea called photokeratitis.
How do I know my glasses will protect my eyes? Choose glasses that claim to block at least 99 percent of UV rays -- UVA as well as UVB. Look for label reading "UV 400," since this designation means that the glasses block UV rays as small as 400 nanometers, providing 100 percent eye protection. Of course you need to protect your eyes from the glare caused by the visible spectrum as well. To accomplish this, select products that block 75 to 90 percent of visible light.
What are polarized lenses? Polarized lenses are specially designed to filter out certain types of glare that tend to radiate upward from horizontal surfaces when sunlight bounces off of these surfaces. They are recommended for tasks such as boating, fishing, skiing, golfing, jogging, and driving. Most polarized lenses will bear a label identifying them as such.
What colour tint is the best choice? Personal preference often guides tint selection. Trying on sunglasses and experiencing the vision differences can you help you decide. Different tints enhance your colour perception differently. Our staff can recommend the right tint for you lifestyle and activities. There are sunglass lenses designed specifically for golf, biking or running, and many other sports.
What types of glasses can I choose from? We are able to provide you with a wide range of sunglass options in prescription and non-prescription. If you normally wear glasses to correct your eyesight, you may be happy with a non-prescription pair of clip-ons or wraparound glasses that simply fit over your lenses. If you'd rather not wear that much equipment on your head all at once, you can order a pair of prescription "shades," or you can order photochromatic lenses that darken when exposed to bright light.
What additional types of protection should I consider? If you worry about light, including harmful UV, leaking in through sides or top of your sunglasses, wear a broad-brimmed hat to reduce some of this exposure. If you use prescription eyewear to correct your eyesight, you may also want to think about getting a pair of UV-blocking contact lenses in your prescription. These lenses may be worn alongside a non-prescription pair of sunglasses for optimum eye protection. Also, don’t forget to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin and reduce skin cancer risk.
Check out our online store to view some of our sunglass catalogue (not an extensive listing of all available sunglasses). Available in prescription and non-prescription.
