Polarized lenses

Polarized lenses block the horizontal glare that bounces off water, snow and roads. They make bright days more comfortable and are best suited to sunglasses rather than everyday clear lenses.

Woman in aviator sunglasses beside a bright blue sea
Photo: Ljupco Dzambazovski / Pexels
Light reflected from a flat surface is partly horizontally polarized; a polarized filter reduces that component.Incoming lightReflective surfacePolarized filterLess reflected glareDaylight use — check visibility of vehicle displays
Light reflected from a flat surface is partly horizontally polarized; a polarized filter reduces that component.

Where they help

Light reflected from flat surfaces is mostly horizontal. A polarized filter blocks that direction, so the glare off a lake or a wet road drops sharply while the scene stays clear. Fishing, cycling, skiing and long drives in the sun are common reasons to choose them.

Practical limits

Some phone, car and cash-machine screens look dark or patchy through polarized lenses. Tilt your head to check. Polarized lenses are tinted, so they are for daylight only.

With your prescription

Polarization, tint colour, prescription and lens index are separate choices. The lens step shows which combinations are available for your frame.

Tint colours

Grey keeps colours most natural and suits general use. Brown and amber raise contrast, which many people like for driving, fishing and changing light. Green sits between the two. The colours offered for each lens type are listed in the lens step.

Caring for polarized lenses

The filter is a thin layer inside the lens, so treat the surfaces gently. Rinse off grit before wiping, use a microfibre cloth and keep the glasses in a case rather than loose in a bag.

Polarized questions

Do polarized lenses protect against UV?

Polarization and UV protection are separate properties. Check the lens description for UV protection.

Why does my phone screen look black?

Many screens use their own polarizing layer. Turn the phone or tilt your head and the image returns.

Can I wear polarized lenses at night?

No. They are tinted and reduce the light reaching your eyes.

Find your next frame

Compare shapes and measurements, then explore suitable lens options.

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