GROUP TEST POLARIZED SUNGLASSES
Bright sunlight, little shelter, white decks and sails, and glare reflected off the water all make being at sea a hostile environment for our eyes. We all know the discomfort of squinting into sun, trying to pick out the next navigation mark or up at the sails on a bright day. Even in overcast conditions, the amount of light around can be visually tiring.
With all this light comes harmful ultraviolet radiation. Exposure over a few years can contribute to corneal damage, cataracts and macular degeneration amongst other conditions, and as sailors, we are more exposed than most. Far from being a mere fashion accessory, a proper pair of sunglasses that blocks out the harmful rays and makes it easier for us to see is essential.
Most sailors will opt for polarized sunglasses. If you haven’t tried them before and don’t know what the fuss is about, ask to try someone else’s next time you’re out on the water. Tip your head on one side to see what things look like with dark glasses, then look normally to see how much additional glare the polarization cuts out and you’ll be amazed. They do have some downsides, however, including the frustrating characteristic that they can make it hard to see digital screens and instrument read-outs at certain angles – see p84 for an explanation of how polarization works and why this happens.
Like buying clothing or footwear, finding the right pair of sunglasses is a hugely personal choice. Everyone’s face is different, and finding ones that fit comfortably and securely in a style that you like will take a certain amount of trying on. Most brands carry multiple styles, however, that use the same ideas and technologies to suit a range of wearers.
THE MAIN CONSIDERATIONS INCLUDE:
Flatter ‘lifestyle’ sunglasses (very on trend this year),
