How Do Polarized Lenses Work?

Polarized lenses work by filtering out scattered, reflected light, or glare, that bounces off of surfaces. In Maui Jim’s quest to make eyewear that does justice to the rich, natural splendor of Hawaii, counteracting glare from the water is a main goal. Eliminating this extra, “noisy” light, allows for a clearer image with sharper definition and vivid colors.

It’s no wonder polarized sunglasses are preferred by people who spend time on the water or at the beach. Here’s some additional, in-depth information about glare and polarization:

What is Glare?

Sunlight radiates out in all directions. When rays of light align along a single plane, the light is said to be “polarized.” In nature, this commonly happens when sunlight bounces off a horizontal surface, like a lake, or the hood of a car. This polarized light can be intense and overwhelm your vision, blocking out details and distorting colors. For example, even though a body of water may be clear and still, glare can keep you from seeing anything below the surface. Glare has been known to cause automobile and boating accidents, and can increase eye fatigue, and possibly cause eye damage over time.

Image of car at beach through Maui JIm lens

Polarization Filters Out Glare

The solution to the problem of glare? Polarized sunglasses. Lenses are polarized by coating them with a specially designed compound that naturally arranges its molecules in a uniform direction. Since most of the glare in our world is caused by horizontal reflection off a shiny surface, polarized lenses feature vertical filter patterns that only allow vertically polarized light to pass through. To see this effect in action, put on a pair of polarized glasses, and look at the reflective hood of a car in the bright sunlight. Tilt your head to the side, and you should start to notice more and more glare seeping into your vision.

At Maui Jim, our patented PolarizedPlus2® technology eliminates horizontal glare while also protecting against UV rays and managing high energy visible light. Our polarized lenses offer an exceptionally high-contrast image and true colors that will have you seeing the nature around you as if for the first time.

Enjoy Your Beautiful World

Polarized lenses will help you get the most out of your experiences, whether you’re boating between exotic islands or driving home from work. Maui Jim has created sunglasses that are meant to manage the effects of the strongest sun on the planet, while still providing the contrast, details, and natural hues that will allow you to appreciate the beauty of your natural world. Stay outside for longer and protect your eyes without diminishing the complexities of the environment around you. With polarized sunglasses from Maui Jim, you’ll see the world in a whole new light.