Are Polarized Sunglasses Good for Driving?

At Maui Jim, we’re inspired by Hawaii’s lush tropical scenery, but we know that whether you’re hitting the beach for a vacation getaway or just driving to work on your daily commute, sunglasses are a must. When the sun is low in the sky, the glare can not only be a nuisance for drivers but a real safety hazard. The best driving sunglasses are those that eliminate dangerous glare as much as possible, which is why we recommend polarized lenses for drivers looking to neutralize the blinding effects of sunlight while they’re on the road.

Glare Causes Thousands of Accidents a Year

Glare causes, or plays a part in causing thousands of car accidents across the globe every year. Whether you’re driving east on an early morning commute, heading west on a long road trip, or cruising through snow-covered plains, you’ve probably experienced the distracting and disorientating effect that glare can have on your vision when you’re behind the wheel.

Polarization Reduces Glare

Glare is an excess of horizontally polarized light caused by the sun reflecting off of shiny surfaces like ice, water, or other automobiles. It appears to the naked eye as a burst of white light that can obscure surrounding details. Polarized lenses are designed to virtually eliminate glare while also blocking harmful UV rays. Driving sunglasses with polarized lenses can eliminate glare and will help keep your vision sharp while operating a motor vehicle, bicycle, or boat in difficult lighting conditions. The best polarized sunglasses for driving should fit comfortably and have a large coverage area that will also shield your peripheral vision from the effects of glare.

At Maui Jim, our state-of-the-art PolarizedPlus2 sunglasses are engineered to handle the strongest sun in the world. This will help you keep your vision clear and enjoy the outdoors, even if it’s from stop and go traffic on the freeway.

True Colors Matter on the Road

What is the best lens color for driving sunglasses? It’s important to choose lenses that provide rich, vivid colors so that no key visual cues are missed on the road – red lights, for example. Our Neutral Gray and HCL® Bronze lenses are great for variable light conditions, from bright sunlight to overcast, and provide crisp contrast and clear colors.

Some sunglasses with a darker tint may not be suitable for low-light driving conditions. The time between when the sun is on the horizon and causing maximum glare, and when the sun sets, can be a mere matter of minutes. Be aware of lighting conditions, and make sure to remove your sunglasses if it becomes too dark to see.

Maui Jim sunglasses are designed to provide rich, true colors with maximum contrast. The result is advanced eyewear that is ideal for keeping you safe behind the wheel and enjoying your time on the road.

Q&A with Maui Jim Ambassador Mariko LumIs Blue light bad for your eyes?