Sunglasses are an essential accessory for many people, not only for their functionality but also for their fashion appeal. However, with so many options in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right sunglasses for your needs. One type that has become increasingly popular in recent years are mirrored sunglasses. But are mirrored sunglasses good?
What Are Mirrored Sunglasses?
Mirrored sunglasses are a type of eyewear that have reflective coatings on the lenses. This reflective coating is what gives the sunglasses their mirror-like appearance. The coating is usually applied on the front surface of the lenses, and it reflects the light that hits it. Hence, these lenses are also called reflective sunglasses.
Pros of Mirrored Sunglasses
Enhanced UV Protection
One of the most significant benefits of mirrored sunglasses is their enhanced UV protection. The reflective coating on the lenses helps to block harmful UV rays more effectively than regular tinted lenses. This is because it reflects the UV rays off the lenses, preventing them from passing into your eyes.
Reduction of Glare
Mirrored sunglasses reflect light away from your eyes, which reduces the amount of glare that you experience. This makes them an excellent option for people who spend a lot of time in bright outdoor conditions, such as on the water, snow, or in high-glare urban areas.
Style Statement
Mirrored sunglasses have become a popular fashion accessory due to their striking appearance. They come in a wide range of colors and designs that can add a unique touch of style to any outfit.
Cons of Mirrored Sunglasses
Visibility Issues
One of the biggest drawbacks of mirrored sunglasses is that they can sometimes impact your visibility. The reflective coating can cause distortion and even make it difficult to see clearly, especially in low-light conditions or at night.
Scratching
Mirrored sunglasses can be more prone to scratches than other types of sunglasses due to their coatings. This can be frustrating, as scratches can negatively impact visibility and diminish the lifespan of the glasses.
Cost
Mirrored sunglasses can be more expensive than other sunglasses due to the additional manufacturing process required for the reflective coating. This can make them less accessible to people on a budget.
How to Choose the Right Mirrored Sunglasses
When choosing the right mirrored sunglasses, the following factors should be considered:
Purpose
Think about what activities you plan on doing while wearing the sunglasses. If you're using them for activities like water sports or skiing, polarized lenses may be a better option for reducing glare. If you're using them for fashion and for everyday wear, mirrored sunglasses may be the way to go.
Lens Quality
Choose a brand that provides high-quality lenses, with good clarity, color, and contrast. This ensures that your eyes are well-protected and that you can see clearly. Also, make sure that the lenses are large enough to cover your eyes properly and provide adequate protection against the sun.
Frame Style and Fit
Choose a frame style that suits your face shape and your individual style. When it comes to the fit, ensure that the sunglasses sit comfortably on your nose and ears, without slipping or feeling too tight.
Conclusion
Mirrored sunglasses certainly have their pros and cons, and whether they are good for you or not, depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for sunglasses that offer enhanced UV protection, glare reduction, and a stylish appearance, mirrored sunglasses may be the right choice for you. However, they do have some drawbacks, such as visibility issues and potential scratching that you will need to consider before making a purchase.