A Tip From Maui Jim:  Not All Polarized Sunglasses Are The Same

LAHAINA, Hawaii, April 13, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Anyone who has tried a pair of polarized sunglasses can attest to the benefits they offer. Polarization reduces glare, improves clarity and contrast and reduces eye fatigue. Driving in bright sunlight becomes easier. Views becomes clearer and more vibrant.

But is all polarization the same? The answer is clearly no.

First, what is polarization? As light is transmitted, its waves shoot off in all different directions. When those light waves happen to align in one particular direction, that light is considered polarized. For example, when light reflects of a shiny, horizontal surface, it becomes horizontally polarized and creates glare. By adding a polarized filter to sunglasses, they will allow in more of the clear, vertically polarized light, while reducing all that pesky horizontal glare.

No doubt, polarization is definitely a good thing when it comes to sunglasses. But what makes some polarized sunglasses better (and more expensive) than others? It's all about the quality of the polarized filter and technology used in its application. Some less expensive sunglasses claim to offer polarization, but may only block out 10% of reflected glare. This is because their polarization filter simply allows too much horizontal light to pass through the lens. Think of it like a pair of blinds on a window that just aren't closed enough.

On other hand, a premium pair of sunglasses with a quality polarization filter can block out nearly all glare. Maui Jim PolarizedPlus2^® lens technology not only eliminates glare, but also features a patented blend of three rare Earth elements infused onto the lens itself. By enhancing red, green and blue light waves, this not only results in increased clarity and detail, but actually increases and balances the saturation of colors we see (while filtering out colors we can't see that may cause interference).

So while any pair of polarized sunglasses can bring a little more clarity to your favorites activities, not all polarization is created equal. And like most things in life, you get what you pay for. Differences in materials, technology and application can help you see the world in whole new light.

About Maui Jim:

Maui Jim sunglasses were born on the beaches of Maui and designed to protect eyes from the harsh rays of the island sun. Today, Maui Jim is recognized for unparalleled "Aloha Spirit" and customer service as well as patented PolarizedPlus2® lens technology, which blocks 100% of UV rays and eliminates glare while enhancing color, definition and depth perception.  Maui Jim sunglasses have earned the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation as an effective UV filter for the eyes and surrounding skin.  For more information, visit MauiJim.com or on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram at @OfficialMauiJim.

SOURCE Maui Jim, Inc.