Linking sunglasses to the beach, road trips, and summer is common. However, it’s crucial to remember that even in winter, when the sun is less visible, your eyes remain vulnerable to harm.
Snow on the ground reflects light, leading to glare, eye strain, impaired vision, and related discomfort. The good news is that safeguarding your eyes in winter is simple: using an item likely already in your bag or car.
In this article, you will learn three compelling reasons to wear sunglasses during the winter season.
1. Protect your eyes from UV rays
Sneaky and potentially harmful ultraviolet (UV) light can seriously threaten your eyes in winter. Sunglasses not only enhance your look and make seeing more pleasant, but their main job is to shield your eyes from UV rays all year round.
Although unseen by our eyes, ultraviolet light comes in three categories: UVA, UVB, and UVC, with wavelengths ranging from 100 to 400 nanometers. Sunglasses with a UV40 or UV400 rating effectively block these light frequencies, ensuring complete protection for your eyes and the surrounding skin.
If you go without sunglasses, you expose yourself to the risk of long-term eye damage when regularly facing intense and prolonged doses of UV light. Conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and premature skin aging could become real concerns. That’s why wearing sunglasses in winter is a wise choice.
2. Prevent snow blindness
For winter enthusiasts who enjoy skiing and snow activities, it’s smart to invest in reliable eye protection. Winter sun, especially at higher elevations where snow reflects sunlight, can lead to snow blindness—a painful, temporary eye condition caused by too much UV exposure. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, headaches, blurred vision, tearing, sensitivity to light, eyelid twitching, and a gritty feeling in the eye. To avoid these issues, consider using eye protection like sunglasses or adaptive lenses that adjust to light changes for better visual accuracy. These lenses eliminate the need for carrying sunglasses, letting you enjoy the outdoors worry-free. Moreover, wearing eye protection during winter sports not only shields against UV exposure but also guards your eyes from potential injuries caused by flying particles and prevents the cold from affecting blood vessels and freezing the cornea.
3. Safety when driving
Dealing with sun glare while driving is irritating and can be unsafe. Winter conditions make it worse with reflective snow and ice surfaces. This glare affects seeing other vehicles, traffic signals, road conditions, and pedestrians. Brightness can cause headaches and eye strain, lowering road alertness. Choose sunglasses with good contrast, clear colour distinction, and visibility for both sunny and cloudy conditions. Brown and grey-tinted lenses reduce light without distorting colours effectively.
Final Words
Considering the potential for eye damage might be daunting, but safeguarding your vision in winter is simple – just put on your sunglasses. Keeping out glare, avoiding eye strain and headaches, and protecting against UV rays and debris are excellent reasons to don your shades. This winter, prioritize your eye health and safety!
FAQs
How much do sunglasses cost?
The cost of sunglasses can vary widely depending on the brand, style, and features. On average, you can find sunglasses ranging from £20 to £200 or more. High-end designer brands tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Are Bentley Platinum sunglasses worth the hefty £35,890 price tag?
The brand showcases its dedication to top-tier fashion with these sunglasses since they are crafted from platinum—a durable and rare precious metal. The design exudes sleek sophistication, adorned with the distinctive Bentley logo on the temples, elevating the exclusivity of these already luxurious shades. So, apparently, many folks think they are worth it. Personally, I would definitely get myself a pair of Bentley Platinum when I win the big prize of PlayNGo’s Book of Dead video slot.
Can you wear sunglasses all year round?
Sunglasses are not just a fashion accessory; they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. UV rays can be present even on cloudy days, and prolonged exposure can lead to eye damage. Wearing sunglasses throughout the year is a smart and healthy choice to shield your eyes from these potential risks.
Is it weird to wear sunglasses in winter?
While some may associate sunglasses with bright sunlight and warm weather, they are equally important in winter. Snow can reflect sunlight, intensifying its impact on your eyes. Additionally, cold winds can lead to dry eyes, and sunglasses provide an extra layer of protection against wind and debris. So, wearing sunglasses in winter is practical and a sensible way to care for your eye health year-round.
Which sunglasses are best for winter?
Optimal winter sunglasses feature UV protective lenses with a category 3 tint, providing ample facial coverage. This ensures protection against both UVA and UVB rays in various light conditions. Choose large frames and lenses to reduce exposure to wind, cold, and reflected sunlight, enhancing overall eye protection.
