Should I Wear Sunglasses in The Winter?

Sunglasses are great for keeping your eyes safe and healthy, no matter the time of year. In this post, you will learn why wearing sunglasses in the winter is just as important as wearing them during the summer.

Protect Your Eyes from Harmful UV Rays

Exposing your eyes to UV Rays can lead to long-term, or even permanent, damage. UVA and UVB rays are the two most damaging forms of UV rays, which UV 400 lenses protect you from. Prolonged exposure to UV Rays without proper protection can lead to permanent cornea damage, the development of cataracts near your retinas, as well as other health concerns. The World Health Organization strongly recommends that you wear UV400 protection to keep your eyes healthy and safe. Investing in a UV400 protective pair of eyewear is essential for good eye health. This is the case no matter the time of year, because even when the temperatures are lower, the effects of UV rays don’t change how they affect your eyes and their health. 

To learn more about UV400 protection, click HERE.  


UV Rays Reflect Off Snow? 

Yes, it does. Even though it feels cold out in the middle of winter, the sun’s ultraviolet lights are still something to worry about. The UV index can even be higher on a bright snowy day than even the hottest summer days. This is because snow and ice, when on the ground, reflects the sun’s UV rays, increasing the amount of exposure your eyes have to UV light. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s UV light, meaning the increased amount of UV Ray exposure is not negligible. Long term exposure to UV light under these conditions can lead to ‘Snow Blindness’, a term for sunburned corneas. Sunglasses and snow goggles with UV400 are the perfect solution to harmful UV rays during the winter seasons or when you’re going to engage in winter sports and athletics. 

In short, UV Rays reflect off snow and ice, causing you to be exposed to more UV rays than normal. Sunglasses and Snow Goggles will help keep your eyes safe. 

Snow Goggles vs Sunglasses

Both Sunglasses and Snow Goggles will help your eyes safe on your next winter excursion. Whether you’re clearing the driveway or taking a trip up to the mountains, wearing the right eyewear is crucial. Snow Goggles offer a wider surface area for coverage - their large eyeshield provides universal coverage for your eyes from harmful UV rays. Snow Goggles aren’t coming off easily with their secure seal and back strap. Snowboarding, Skiing, whatever activity you need them for, they aren’t leaving your head. 

Snow Goggles are functional while also making a statement. Sunglasses, by comparison, offer a more subtle look. Coming in a wider array of styles and refraining from the boxy look of goggles, sunglasses can offer you similar UV protection while also being a stand out accessory. Snow Goggles (over time) can weigh on your head. If you need a break from them, but still want eye protection, just throw on a pair of handy sunglasses. Between being lightweight and easy to transport a pair of sunglasses can offer protection and be with you wherever you go.  

Is It Normal? 

Is it ‘normal’ to wear sunglasses out in public during the winter? Yes! We all wear coats, hats, mittens and other pieces of clothing in order to keep us safe from the elements, and sunglasses are no different. Sunglasses give you both comfort and safety, it just so happens you also look phenomenal while wearing them. One added bonus is they protect your face from the harsh winds of winter. Whether you’re up in the mountains for days at a time, or just doing everyday tasks in the middle of winter, wearing sunglasses is the best possible way to keep your eyes safe from the sun. 

Fashionable and Functional

UV rays are no joke, no matter what season it is. They can cause irreversible damage to your eyes. Keep them safe with UV400 protective sunglasses. Yes, the winter can get cold, but that doesn’t mean the sun’s UV rays still can’t hurt your eyes. On bright winter days do yourself a favor and throw on your favorite pair of UV400 shades. Not only will you look great, but you’ll feel great as well knowing that your eyes are safe from harm. If you’re snowboarding, skiing, or any other winter sport, bring along a pair of UV400 goggles with your favorite shades. Bringing both will give you versatility and flexibility. 

At Detour, we offer a wide range of both sunglasses and snow goggles...

Click HERE for Sunglasses.

Click HERE for Snow Goggles.

 

 

 

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