Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses

A pair of brown sunglasses on green leaves with red flowers in the corner

How polarized lenses vs. non-polarized lenses work?

In order to understand polarization, we must first understand light. Light is delivered in waves, and light waves that vibrate in more than one plane are referred to as unpolarized light. Polarized light waves, on the other hand, are light waves in which the vibrations occur in a single plane. This light travels in both vertical and horizontal directions. Horizontal light tends to be more problematic because it creates unwanted and potentially dangerous glare by bouncing off of different surfaces. In terms of polarized vs. non-polarized lenses, this is a key distinction. Polarized lenses transform these light waves (so they become polarized), and as a result less disturbing to your vision. Non-polarized lenses don’t filter light in this way, so the glare is much more noticeable. 

What is the difference between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses?

Polarized vs. non-polarized sunglasses create an interesting debate on how they work and which is better suited for different situations. In terms of the polarized lens vs. non, both still typically protect against both types of UV light (UVA and UVB) in addition to bright light. However, there are two key differences between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses.

1. Glare protection

The ability to eliminate glare is drastically different for polarized versus non-polarized sunglasses. That’s because polarized lenses are specifically engineered to reduce glare and ensure you can see clearly even in the direct sun. This glare created by the sun can be annoying and even dangerous in some situations. Therefore, polarized sunglasses work to eliminate this glare that interferes with your vision.

2. Clear vision

You’ll notice clearer vision while in direct sunlight when wearing polarized sunglasses vs. non-polarized sunglasses. By cutting out the glare, the polarized lenses will help you see better outside.


To see if a pair of sunglasses are polarized vs. non-polarized sunglasses, there is a quick little test you can do yourself. First, put on your sunglasses and take a look at your phone screen. If you see a rainbow in your line of vision obstructing your view of the screen, then the glasses are most likely polarized lenses vs non. This is a simple way to distinguish between polarized sunglasses versus regular. Most companies use traditional polarized lenses, but at Felix Gray, we use thinner polarization, which we specifically designed to work with modern devices. This way you can look at your screen with minimal distortion every time and still get the benefits of polarized sunglasses. 

Man wearing sunglasses outside on bike

Why you should use polarized vs. non-polarized sunglasses?

Polarized or not, sunglasses are a staple of everyday life. Polarized lenses versus non-polarized have many benefits that make them worth the purchase. Sunglasses of some kind (either polarized or non-polarized) should be worn during outdoor activities in order to protect your eyes from the bright sunlight. However, there are certain situations and conditions where it is important to know when to wear polarized sunglasses vs. regular.

When to wear non-polarized sunglasses:

  • Skiing – When skiing, glare actually helps to distinguish the snow from ice. Therefore, skiers can see where to continue their path and avoid dangerous situations.

  • Flying – Pilots are advised to wear non-polarized sunglasses while flying because polarized lenses can sometimes make it difficult to see, and especially to read the controls and GPS in the cockpit.

  • Operating heavy machinery – This is because certain polarized lenses can make it challenging to see the controls or GPS screens used in these situations.

When to wear polarized vs. unpolarized sunglasses:

  • Driving – Always wear polarized vs. non-sunglasses when driving because the lenses help cut out any glare that may be dangerous to the driver. 

  • Fishing – Glare reflects very easily off of the water’s surface so polarized (vs. non-polarized) glasses are the best option when out on the water.

  • Biking – Polarized sunglasses can prevent any harmful glare from distracting the biker and potentially endangering them or others. 

  • Walking around – Basically, any activity that takes place outside in the sunlight can benefit from polarized sunglasses vs. non-polarized because of the added glare protection. Many people find that polarized are the best for most outdoor activities in general. 

Additionally, another advantage of polarized vs. non-polarized is that polarized lenses have several benefits for your eyesight. These advantages include enhanced comfort, reduced eye strain, and even improved visual clarity. All of these factors are important to note when buying sunglasses polarized vs. non-polarized.

Felix Gray Sunglasses

If you’re looking for the perfect pair of polarized sunnies, look no further than Felix Gray. Some brands charge more for polarized lenses, but that is not the case with Felix Gray. There is no need to worry if the sunglasses are polarized or not because all Felix Gray sunglasses come with polarized lenses to ensure glare reduction (anti-glare glasses). They also filter Blue Light to enhance color and block 100% of UVA and UVB light. The UV protection combined with the advanced Blue Light filter provides the best wearing experience possible. Blue Light scatters more than any other color (fun fact: that’s why the sky is blue!). This scattering can cause colors to appear muted and washed out. Felix Gray combats this with the proprietary color enhancement feature so you can see in true color.

Additionally, the glasses feature thin polarized lenses made to work with digital screens so images are always accurate. Felix Gray sunnies also come with 360-degree protection that features a super hydrophobic backside AR (Anti-Reflective) coating to ensure that no damaging light can be reflected back into your eyes. All in all, polarized lenses vs. non-polarized have many benefits for your eyes and you can get great pairs at Felix Gray. They come in various colors and styles that both look great and are highly effective. If you have any questions or concerns before buying, during your search, or after you buy your new sunglasses, don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Experience Team through email, chat, phone, or Facebook messenger. If you’re looking for incredible quality, top-rated polarized sunglasses, Felix Gray is the place for you.

3 Shares: