We’ve talked a lot on our blog about polarized lenses, but haven’t really talked much about how they work. So today we’ll answer the question “What are polarized lenses?” while also recommending a few pairs from our own collection.

We wear eyeglasses and sunglasses to help us see, and to protect our eyes. Polarized lenses are coated with a film that reduces glare, which occurs when light from the sun hits a reflective surface. A polarized lens counteracts that glare, allowing you to see more clearly and reducing the harm caused by UV rays.

When rays from the sun hit a flat surface, light is reflected in every direction back at your eyes and is magnified, which causes glare. Glare messes with your view and color perception, lowers your depth perception, and can even cause temporary blindness.

A regular pair of sunglasses will only reduce light that is transmitted through the lens vertically and horizontally. The filter on a polarized lens absorbs horizontal light but allows vertical light waves through, which means the light is only moving in one direction, and glare is eliminated.

There are two types of polarized lenses:

• .75 mm – These lenses are made from thin sheets of film and are better for casual sports – golf, running – where you don’t need to worry about impact resistance.
• 1 mm – As you might suspect, these offer more impact resistance than .77 mm lenses because they have a thicker film, although they reduce the same amount of glare.

There are a few tests you can do tell if your lenses are polarized.

One way is to use a computer monitor. Look through the lenses at your computer, and turn them to a 60-degree angle. If they’re polarized, the lenses will turn black. You can also use the 60-degree method a few other ways:

• If you have a new pair of sunglasses, look at the test tag or sticker through the lens, and then rotate to a 60-degree angle. On polarized lenses, the sticker will get darker.
• Get two pairs of sunglasses and look through them at the same time, and then rotate one pair to 60 degrees. If both pairs are polarized, the overlapping lenses will become darker.
• Hold the glasses so you’re looking at a reflective surface through the lenses, and rotate to a 60-degree angle. If the sunglasses are polarized, you’ll see less glare.

If you’re ready to buy a pair of polarized sunglasses, consider the Switch Collection from Liberty Sport. Here are five of our top pairs.

1. H-Wall

Our H-Wall sweptback ski lenses were named for a black diamond ski run in Tahoe where visibility decreases dramatically when the afternoon sun drops behind the mountain. To supersize your view, a quick change to a contrast-maximizing yellow ski lens will make your run visible. The H-Wall’s chassis and 8-base lenses prevent light leakage. Vented nose pads enhance airflow to minimize lens fogging.

2. Pathfinder

These glasses transform instantly from lifestyle sunglasses to adaptable performance-specific gear when you add or remove the Switch magnetic eyecups. Pathfinder sports sunglasses provide great coverage with their large lens, 6-base wrap-around design, and soft rubber nose pads. Perfectly designed to fit comfortably beneath a motorcycle or climbing helmet, its head hugging, flexible temples include a TPR insert for added grip, and an adjustable strap for when you’ve got both hands full.

3. Stormrider

Like the Pathfinder, these glasses can switch from lifestyle sunglasses to versatile performance specific gear by quickly adding or removing the Switch magnetic eyecups. The Stormrider high-performance prescription sunglasses feature a unisex 6 base lens curvature and narrower rectangular eye shape. Lightweight and impact-resistant injected nylon construction, increased lens retention, flexible temple construction and an adjustable strap are designed for head hugging performance and helmet-friendly comfort.

4. Arya

A brilliant fusion of fashion, unambiguous performance and comfort for women, Arya delivers optical splendor in any setting. The large panoramic 8 base lens profile and patented Switch® light management lens technology offer spectacular peripheral views, maximum coverage, protection and the superior visual clarity. The Arya is chic yet practical, with a flexible nylon frame that is ultra-light and designed for balanced weight distribution for allday comfort. A variety of additional lens tints are available allowing you to go from full sun to low light conditions.

5. The Lynx

These sport prescription sunglasses blend bold, confident styling with great fit. Their full wrap, wide temple, and large lens shape offers maximum protection against the elements. An ideal choice for sports where the wind and sun are at their fiercest. Lynx prescription sport sunglasses are unparalleled in their ability to adapt to changing light conditions in hi-def.

Of course, these aren’t the only polarized sunglasses we offer. Be sure to visit our website to find the pair that works for you.