Sunglasses can add the perfect flair to summer outfits, however, their wear and usage declines during the winter months. Year-round usage of sunglasses has several advantages besides just looking cool, and wearing them only during the summer greatly limits sunglasses’ benefits for the eyes. Here are a few reasons why sunglasses should be worn year-round, especially in the winter.

Protection from UV rays 

Ultraviolet (UV) light rays are emitted by the sun and are shorter than visible light rays. While moderate amounts of UV exposure can be beneficial, such as supplementing Vitamin D levels, too much exposure to UV rays can cause several eye problems, including corneal sunburn, cataracts and skin cancer of the skin immediately surrounding the eyelids. The best type of protection from UV rays are polarized sunglasses, available from most major sunglasses brands. Polarization occurs in an invisible layer, so be aware when shopping for sunglasses that the tint of the sunglasses does not equal the polarization protection! 

Glare reduction is one of the main reasons most people wear sunglasses. However, there is a misconception that in the winter, since there is less daylight and cooler temperatures, glare from the sun is not as bad as it is in summer. The opposite is actually true! Since the sun is lower during the winter months, its angle aims directly through your car’s windshield more often, increasing glare. Additionally, snow and ice are great reflectors of light. Even if the sun is high in the sky at midday or partially obscured by clouds, the presence of snow or ice may make it feel like the sun is shining directly in your face. Wearing sunglasses can eliminate the temporary blindness caused when looking straight into an unexpected snowbank or patch of ice. 

Driving is a strenuous activity for the eyes. Vehicles are constantly moving around you, and signs and other landmarks pass quickly in and out of the field of vision. Drivers often end up squinting, which causes eye strain, fatigue and headaches, among other problems. This only gets worse in winter, when snow and ice cover lines on the roadway, portions of signs and other landmarks that may be usual reference points. Wearing sunglasses lessens the need to squint and can significantly improve quality of life by leading to less eye pain and headaches. 

Overall eye health 

It’s no secret that winters are colder and winder. Hands and lips get chapped easily, and eyes can get irritated in the same way! The cold air is harsh on the eyes and gusty winds break down the tear film that helps protect the eye. Wearing sunglasses lessens the amount of winter weather that hits the eye, preventing it from getting as dry and irritable. Additionally, eye protection of any kind blocks debris that may be carried by the wind or that can occur during popular winter activities like skiing, sledding and snowboarding. Winter air also tends to be drier and dustier than summer air, so sunglasses can block smaller particles of debris and keep some of the dryness away. 

Fashion 

All of this is not to say that sunglasses can’t complement a great winter outfit! Many outdoor adventurers find a highly reflective pair of sunglasses to be the perfect addition to snowsuits or other heavy gear. Darker lenses may pair well with scarves or overcoats as well. 

Wearing high-quality sunglasses in the winter provides all of the same health benefits that are gained from wearing sunglasses in the summer. From a decreased chance of developing various eye disorders to an eye that is less dry and irritated, sunglasses should be a staple eyewear product in all seasons – even if you don’t wear prescription glasses or contacts. 

Purchasing sunglasses 

Ready for some new sunglasses? Prevea Optical offers numerous options for prescription and non-prescription sunglasses to fit a variety of needs. Find your nearest Prevea Optical location.