Sunglasses have several important functions. We primarily use them to improve visibility in bright outdoor light. We also use them to protect our eyes from the UV rays of the sun and as a fashion accessory.
Sunglasses are mostly associated with summertime, but did you know that it is recommended to wear sunglasses all 12 months of the year? Here, we take a closer look at why and guide you on which sunglasses are best suited for you and your needs.
8 Reasons to Wear Sunglasses All Year Round
- To improve your vision, for example while driving. Depending on the sunglasses you choose, they can enhance your vision, highlight or reduce contrasts, and reduce glare and reflection from the sun
- To protect your eyes. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause eye damage such as corneal sunburn and cataracts
- Also wear sunglasses when it's cloudy. UV rays are still harmful in overcast weather, so check the UV index
- Remember sunglasses when using contact lenses. Although many contact lenses today come with protective filters, it's not always enough
- To prevent signs of aging. Just as on the rest of the body, UV rays accelerate the aging process in the delicate eye area. Reduce the risk of wrinkles and pigmentation around the eyes with sunglasses
- To protect against wind, dirt, and insects. Sunglasses also act as a shield against wind, pollen, insects, dust, and other foreign objects that can damage and irritate the eyes
- You can always hide your tired eyes behind a pair of shades
- As a fashion statement. Elevate your outfit with the timeless fashion accessory
Which Sunglasses Should I Choose?
When selecting your new sunglasses, there are several factors to consider in order to find your perfect fit. It’s essential to choose sunglasses that are suitable for the specific situations in which you will wear them, as well as a style that complements your personal taste and enhances your facial features.
Sunglass Lens Categories 0-4
Sunglass lenses are divided into 5 different lens categories that are used to indicate the amount of light filtered through the sunglass lenses. If you need sunglasses for specific conditions, it's a good idea to check the lens category to ensure they are suitable for the current lighting conditions and needs.
Category 0
Sunglasses in this category have no or very little filtering and provide no protection from the sun. They are solely for fashion and indoor use.
Category 1
These sunglasses provide light filtering. They are primarily used as café and shopping sunglasses but are also suitable for overcast days. They can be used both indoors and outdoors and serve as trendy statement sunglasses.
Category 2
Category 2 sunglasses are a popular choice, offering good protection against glare and are suitable for European summer.
Category 3
Most sunglasses fall into this category, recommended for bright sunlight. Category 3 sunglasses provide a high level of light filtering and good protection against the sun's harmful rays while reducing glare.
Category 4
Category 4 is for extreme conditions such as mountain hiking or water sports. They are too dark for everyday use and low light conditions as they limit vision too much. They are therefore not suitable for driving.
Sunglass Lens Colors and Their Functions
Sunglass lens color is more than just fashion trends and personal taste. Each color has its own function, making them particularly suitable for different weather conditions and activities. To get the most out of your sunglasses, it's a good idea to consider the individual benefits of colors when choosing new sunglasses.
Blue Sunglasses
Blue lenses provide a cool tone and reduce contrasts.
Brown Sunglasses
Brown lenses provide a warm, comfortable tone, block blue light, and enhance contrasts.
Green Sunglasses
Green lenses provide a cool tone that is relaxing. They reduce blue light, maintain color balance, and enhance contrasts.
Grey Sunglasses
Grey lenses provide a cool, balancing tone and preserve color differences.
Yellow and Orange Sunglasses
Yellow and orange lenses provide a warm tone, increase contrasts, and highlight details. They are especially suitable for skiing and activities in fog or reduced lighting.
Pink and Red Sunglasses
Pink and red lenses provide a warm tone and enhance contrasts even more than yellow and orange lenses. Red lenses are among other things used for hunting, and pink lenses are especially suitable for skiing in bright sunlight.
Sunglasses with Polarized Lenses
Sunglasses with polarized lenses, also known as polaroid sunglasses, have a special coating, an anti-glare filter, making them particularly suitable for driving and for staying by the water and skiing, as they help to remove the light reflected from asphalt, water, snow, and other reflective surfaces.
Guide to Sunglasses Based on Face Shapes
If you're unsure about which model will suit you best, see our guide to glasses based on face shapes - it also applies to sunglasses.