Drive Safe and in Style: A Guide to Choosing the Best Sunglasses for Driving

Sunset, open road ahead, and your trusty car - if you’re a keen driver, then no doubt these are the perfect ingredients to make for some truly memorable moments. But along with all that pleasure comes risk: every year many people suffer from severe eye injuries due to bright sunlight when driving – and that's why it’s always important to be mindful of how sunlight can affect your visibility on the road.

While regular prescription eyeglasses are certainly suitable for day-to-day driving around town, they are often insufficient in providing adequate protection against harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays and glare while out on the expressway; this is where polarized sunglasses come into play. Here, we'll explore why choosing the right pair of sunglasses can help you stay safe (and stylish!) while behind the wheel - so keep reading!

The Importance of Vision on the Road

Maintaining optimal vision while driving is an essential aspect of ensuring road safety. The necessity of eyewear is widely recognized by professional drivers, such as Joseph Newgarden, who attests to its importance in achieving precision while driving at high speeds. With every moment being critical on the road, even a slight error can put your safety in jeopardy and hence, clear and unobstructed vision can play a crucial role in avoiding it.

The risks involved in driving are quite evident, and to tackle them effectively, one must have clear visual acuity to move quickly and react promptly to the actions of fellow drivers. Therefore, it is imperative to safeguard one’s eyes by using suitable eyewear while driving and ensure a safe and smooth driving experience.

What to Look For When Choosing Sunglasses For Driving?

Here are some factors to consider when picking the best sunglasses for driving:

Frame

When shopping for new sunglasses, it is essential to prioritize the following aspects of frame technology:

Fit:

The first step is to try on the sunglasses and ensure they provide a comfortable fit. Since many individuals spend extended periods in the car, it's crucial to avoid sunglasses that exert excessive pressure on the temples, which can lead to headaches or migraines. Look for frames with straight-back temples or slightly hooked ends for optimal comfort.

Grip:

While not necessary for driving sunglasses, rubberized nose pads and temple tips can be beneficial. They often incorporate hydrophilic materials that become stickier when you sweat, enhancing grip.

Coverage:

Driving sunglasses should have wider and taller lens designs, ideally with a wraparound style. Sunlight can enter from the sides while driving, impairing vision. A wraparound design or frames with large lenses ensure comprehensive coverage. If you prefer a casual look with a comfortable fit, opt for a 6-base or flat frame.

Material:

When it comes to frame materials for driving sunglasses, durable options are worth considering. Acetate is a popular choice for maximum comfort, as it offers various textures, patterns, and color options. Eco-flex frame is another excellent choice for sunglasses due to its unbeatable combination of lightweight construction, flexibility, and outstanding durability.

One of the standout features of the Eco-Flex Frame is its use of TR-90, which sets it apart from other materials. TR-90 is known for its superior strength and resilience, ensuring that these sunglasses can withstand the demands of daily use and even rigorous activities.

Nylon-based frames are another popular option due to their strength, durability, and flexibility. Metal frames, although they typically lack extensive wraparound designs, are lightweight and feature thin temples for a comfortable fit. However, eco-flex frames offer the best of all worlds, combining a lightweight and flexible frame with superior impact resistance.

Lens Technology

Polarized Lenses:

Polarized lenses are essential for driving sunglasses. While driving, sun light reflecting off of wet roads, pavement, or other surfaces can create a glare that can be distracting. Polarized lenses help reduce this glare, allowing your eyes to relax and maintain comfort during your drive.

However, it's important to note that some digital dashboard displays in newer vehicles may not be visible with polarized lenses. Before hitting the road, ensure that your polarized lenses do not interfere with your car's display.

100% UV Protection Lens:

Wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection is critical for protecting your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays. This type of lens ensures that your eyes are well-shielded against the sun's dangerous radiation, allowing you to drive safely even during the brightest days.

Material:

The material used in the lenses is another important factor to consider. Glass lenses provide excellent optical clarity and durability, but they are heavier and more prone to breakage compared to plastic lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are a popular choice for sunglasses due to their lightweight construction, impact resistance, and superior optical clarity.

Nylon lenses are also ideal for driving sunglasses due to their scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant properties. Additionally, they are shatterproof, providing an essential safety feature that gives you peace of mind during high-intensity activities. It is recommended to choose nylon lenses instead of other options because of their superior clarity, lightness, and durability.

Transition Lenses:

For those who prefer a two-in-one solution, transition lenses are an excellent choice. Transition lenses darken when exposed to UV light. This helps with visibility in strong sunlight and offers the convenience of clear vision at night without having to change your glasses.

Gradient Lenses:

Gradient lenses are known for their fashion appeal but can also provide value for driving sunglasses. These lenses are darker at the top and gradually become lighter toward the bottom. When your focus is on the road, your eyes primarily look through the darker portion of the lens, protecting you from direct sunlight. As you glance down at the dashboard, the lower portion of the lens is clearer, making it easier to read displays.

Lens Color:

The choice of lens color for driving sunglasses is crucial as it affects visibility and the ability to perceive colors and contrasts on the road. Research indicates that pink, blue, and green lenses should generally be avoided while driving as they can make red lights difficult to distinguish.

However, exceptions exist for sunglasses in these hues that are specifically labeled as safe for driving. The recommended lens colors for driving sunglasses are grey and brown with polarization, as they are color-neutral and do not alter the perception of colors.

Additionally, sunglasses designed for drivers often feature yellow and amber-toned lenses, which enhance contrast and definition. It is important to consider these factors to ensure optimal visibility and safety while driving.

Lens Coating:

Finally, look for lenses that feature an anti-reflective coating. This type of coating helps reduce glare by eliminating reflections from the back surface of your sunglasses. It also prevents light from bouncing off the inside surfaces of the lens, further enhancing clarity and safety.

Size and Shape of Lens:

The size and shape of the lens should complement the shape of your face. Large, oversized lenses are often preferred for driving sunglasses as they provide optimal coverage from UV radiation and glare. Additionally, since most individuals wear helmets or hats while driving, rounded lenses that accommodate this type of headgear can be beneficial.

Tint Density

When choosing lenses for driving sunglasses, the tint density is another crucial factor to consider. Tint density is rated on a scale from 0 (clear) to 4 (very dark) and determines how much light reaches the wearer's eyes. Even if two pairs of sunglasses have similar grey lenses, they may block different levels of light depending on their density ratings.

While some individuals prefer darker lenses for driving, it is important to select a lens tint that does not significantly alter the colors you see. Opting for a class 0 that is suitable for both day and nighttime driving.

So, when selecting the perfect pair of driving sunglasses, consider these factors to ensure optimal comfort, visibility, and safety on the road. With these features in mind, you can drive safely and enjoy the ride.

From Where to Purchase Best Driving Sunglasses?

When it comes to purchasing driving sunglasses, look no further than Valley Rays. We take pride in being your go-to destination for top-quality eyewear that guarantees a superior driving experience. Our Lucid Lens, meticulously crafted with high-grade nylon, offers a perfect blend of clarity, comfort, and resilience. Say goodbye to annoying glare and pesky smudges with our anti-glare and oleophobic coatings.

Not to mention, our sunglasses come in a variety of options including scratch-resistant, 100% UV protection, and blue light blocking, ensuring your eyes stay protected no matter the conditions. Need to be polarized, gradient, transition, or prescription driving sunglasses? We've got you covered in every shape, size, and color you desire.

But that's not all! We believe in sustainability without compromising style or performance. That's why our Eco-Flex frame, constructed from high-grade TR-90, boasts an unbeatable combination of lightness, flexibility, and durability. What sets us apart? Our frame's eco-friendly composition, harnesses the power of plant oil instead of petroleum, making it a planet-friendly choice that doesn't skimp on quality. And with a comfortable grip, lasting wear, and sleek design, you won't have to sacrifice style for sustainability.

So if you're seeking the perfect pair of driving sunglasses that offer superior protection without compromising quality or style, look no further than Valley Rays. Our commitment to excellence ensures your satisfaction is guaranteed! Invest in a pair today and experience the Valley Ray's difference. Drive safe and in style with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the Safest Lens Color for Driving Sunglasses?

A: The recommended lens colors for driving sunglasses are grey and brown or amber lenses with polarization, as they are color-neutral and do not alter the perception of colors. Additionally, many drivers prefer yellow or amber-toned lenses to enhance contrast and definition.

Q: Are Transition Lenses Good For Driving?

A: Transition lenses are an excellent choice for driving sunglasses as they darken when exposed to UV light, providing protection from the sun's glare and allowing clear vision at night.

Q: Are Polarized Lenses Better For Driving?

A: Polarised lenses are ideal for driving as they reduce glare and make it easier to distinguish colors on the road. However, it is best to select lenses that are specifically labeled for driving as they may provide superior protection and visibility.

Q: What Features Should I Look For in a Pair of Driving Glasses?

A: When selecting the perfect pair of driving sunglasses, consider lens color (grey or brown with polarization), neutral tint density, lens coating (anti-reflective for reduced glare), and 100% UV protection polarized lenses. Frames like aviators, with large lenses and thin arms, are a good choice for keeping your peripheral vision intact while also shielding your eyes from the sun.

Final Verdict - Wear Sunglasses With High Impact Rating

Hopefully, this guide has provided you with the information necessary to make an informed decision when choosing the perfect pair of driving sunglasses. From lens color and coating to frame material and tint density, there are many factors to consider for optimal visibility and safety on the road.

By selecting lenses that provide 100% harmful UV rays protection as well as features such as polarization that reduce glare from reflective surfaces, you can ensure your eyes are well-protected. Invest in a pair of Valley Rays driving sunglasses today for the ultimate protection and experience the difference.