Sunglasses – The Most Important Things We Need to Know When Choosing Them

Sunglasses are not just an accessory for the summer. Now it is the best time to stop at some optics where you can find the newest models and discounts.

In the summer of 1929 Sam Foster opens a stall on the seafront promenade in Atlantic City and the holidaymakers of the eastern U.S. coast are the first people in the world who could buy sunglasses. Thus began the history of the product which only a year later would become a fashion phenomenon.

Ray-Ban is the first company in the world which uses a polarizing filter in the manufacture of glasses. The idea of the producers came in 1936 when Lieutenant John MacCready complained that the sun impaired his vision during a flight by balloon.

The sunglasses are an integral part of the style of Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” during the same decade. During the 80’s Tom Cruise puts the “pilot” glasses in “Top Gun” and a decade later the debuting director Quentin Tarantino gives his actors Ray-Ban sunglasses.

In 2010 manufacturers of sunglasses look back to previous years to renew the design and to add the best protection and quality.

The main function of sunglasses is to protect the eyes from the harmful ultraviolet rays. All quality sunglasses in the European Union must stop at least 95% of the harmful UVA and UVB radiation (with wavelength of 380nm), while experts recommend sunglasses that block 99-100% if the rays (with wavelength of 400nm).

The degree of UV protection is not related to the degree of darkness of the glass – darker lenses do not protect the eye better. They even make the pupil open more, allowing more harmful rays. This is why in the choice of sunglasses you should not make compromises – the unprotected sunglasses lead to eye damage.

Although they provide protection against UV rays, it is good for the sunglasses to be polarized. This is essential for drivers in the summer, for skiers in winter, for anyone who goes to beach and mountains. The polarizing filter eliminates the glare from the road, snow or water and in this way it contributes to a clearer vision and less eye strain.

You should choose your sunglasses minding two things – the good quality and protection. Do not buy glasses only because you like them, always pay attention to the protection.

This year manufacturers have sought inspiration amongst the classic glasses from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. The extravagance is not expressed with many stones and glitter, but in fine details or interesting forms. Large rounded frames are still in vogue, but smaller round glasses are preparing for a big comeback. You can find many models in the optician stores – plastic or metal, in the classic white or black, purple, red or gold-the choice is yours.