Best Sunglasses for Driving

While you drive, your eyes need to be at their best. Whether you’re traveling across the country or just commuting to work, your eyes should be protected at all times. Because of their specific features, there are some sunglasses that are better for driving than others.

What to Look for When Buying Sunglasses for Driving

Sunglasses come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they vary vastly in price. First, before you dive too deep in the catalog, make sure that the driving sunglasses you’re choosing from are 100% protective against UVA and UVB rays. Next, look at the quality of the material, the comfort and durability of the design, and the type of lens. Those are three key features of sunglasses that make it an ideal pair for driving.

The Material: Metal vs. Plastic

When it comes to sunglasses frame material, metal and plastic both have their pros and cons. Plastic can be less durable than metal but comes in a larger variety of colors and shapes. A high-quality plastic, like acetate, is the best choice of plastic because it’s nylon-based and won’t peel under consistent heat. Metal is lightweight and flexible but can get hot under constant rays.

The Design : Style vs. Comfort

The design of sunglasses plays an important role when it comes to being the best pair for driving. Not all of the latest trends in sunglasses style are the best for driving. Oversized and wrap style frames will cover your eyes from the sun at every angle. The fit is also very important. Make sure the frame you pick isn’t too loose or too tight. Wait to wear those petite round or heart-shaped frames for when you get to your destination and not while you’re driving.

The Lens: Polarized vs. Non-Polarized

Polarized lenses are usually preferred over non-polarized lenses for driving. Since they block horizontal light waves from flat surfaces, it’s effective in reducing reflections and eliminating glare from wet surfaces, headlights, cars, and street signs. However, the same filter that eliminates glare also blurs images from liquid crystal display (LCD) screens. So if your car has a LCD dashboard and/or display screen, polarized lenses are not the way to go. If you opt for non-polarized lenses, brownish tones like copper and amber are the best tints for driving. They increase contrast much better than gray and green lenses.

Don’t Forget Your Passenger

The driver isn’t the only one whose eyes need to be protected. Passengers should also wear sunglasses, especially children.