Polarized lenses: what are the benefits?
Designed to eliminate glare, lenses with polarizing filters block the stray reflections caused by sunlight bouncing off surfaces. In the high mountains and at sea, they offer a significant gain in safety while increasing sensitivity to contrast and reducing eye fatigue. Find out how polarized lenses work and what the benefits of wearing them are.
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What is a polarized lens?
Among the different types of optical lenses, the polarized lens stands out as a real technological innovation. Invented by Edwin H. Land in 1929, it neutralises reflections and glare, both indoors and outdoors. It also protects the eyes from ultraviolet rays and reduces eye strain, providing unique visual comfort. By eliminating almost all annoying reflections, it makes shapes and colours sharper and enhances contrast and relief. Suitable for everyone – babies, children and adults – polarized lenses are well suited to sensitive eyes and recommended for activities at sea and in the mountains.
What is a polarized lens made of?
A polarized lens is generally made up of microscopic crystals all oriented in the same direction, so that the light received is redirected in one single direction. In eyewear, this eliminates stray reflections for the eye, whether they are caused by the sun on snow or on water.
When should you wear polarized lenses?
As described above, polarized lenses significantly improve visual acuity in bright conditions, whatever the weather.
+ An asset for the mountains and winter sports
Sunlight reflecting off the snow quickly tires the eyes. It can also have very unpleasant effects, such as headaches or burns to the skin and eyes. So to enjoy snow sports on the slopes (skiing, snowboarding) or any other outdoor activity in the mountains, it is highly recommended to wear good sunglasses to protect yourself against UV rays.
For the high mountains, Bollé offers a whole range of mountain sunglasses with high-performance polarized lenses. Ergonomic and ultra-tough, the ASCENDER and PATHFINDER will be your allies of choice for reaching the summits.
+ Enjoy water sports with peace of mind
Like snow, water is one of the most reflective surfaces – light bounces off it intensely. This is why polarized lenses are ideal for trips out to sea and to the beach, as they offer a very effective filter and protection. Whether boating, fishing or simply sunbathing, polarized sunglasses will protect your eyes so you can enjoy these moments in peace.
Available with a hydrophobic treatment and standard or polarized lenses, Bollé's AIRFIN, AIRDRIFT and WINDCHASER models are specifically designed for water sports. All three also feature Bollé's Thermogrip® technology, which keeps the frames perfectly in place on your face, however intense your activity.