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POLARIZED OR PHOTOCHROMIC? HOW TO PICK THE PERFECT LENS
Polarized vs. Photochromic: A Quick Comparison
If you’ve ever shopped for sunglasses, you’ve probably seen the terms polarized and photochromic thrown around. Both offer unique benefits, but they serve very different purposes. So, which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
| Feature | Polarized Lenses | Photochromic Lenses |
| How They Work | Reduce glare by filtering horizontal light waves (especially on water, snow, or roads). | Darken automatically based on UV exposure, adapting to changing light conditions. |
| Best For | Fishing, boating, driving, high-glare environments. | Trail running, biking, snow sports, variable light conditions. |
| Won’t Work Well For | Heavily shaded areas, screens (some digital displays become hard to see). | Instant transitions (there’s a short delay when light conditions change). |
Polarized Lenses: Why (and When) You Need Them
If you’ve ever squinted at blinding glare bouncing off the water or the road, polarized lenses are for you. By filtering out horizontal light waves, they dramatically reduce eye strain and improve contrast.
Best Uses for Polarized Sunglasses:
✅ Fishing & Boating (see past the surface glare into the water)
✅ Driving (cut down on windshield glare)
Common Myths About Polarized Lenses:
❌ All polarization is the same – Cheap polarized lenses can distort colors and reduce clarity. Glade’s are engineered for top-tier optics.
❌ They’re great for all sports – Not always! Cyclists, trail runners, and skiers often prefer photochromic lenses since polarized lenses can make it harder to see subtle terrain details.
Glade’s Best Polarized Picks:
Photochromic Lenses: The Adapt-All Workhorse
Photochromic lenses automatically adjust to the light around you, darkening in bright sun and clearing up in low light. If you move through different lighting conditions, these are a game-changer.
Best Uses for Photochromic Sunglasses:
✅ Trail Running (shaded forests to open ridgelines)
✅ Mountain Biking (quick transitions between light and shade)
✅ Snow Sports (reduce eye strain in bright conditions but still work when the light shifts)
✅ All-Day Wear (no need to swap lenses as the light changes)
Glade’s Best Photochromic Picks:
So, Which Should You Choose?
- Go Polarized if you’re on the water, driving long distances, or need to cut down on glare.
- Go Photochromic if you’re moving through different lighting conditions and need seamless transitions—especially for trail running, biking, and snow sports.
- Go Both if you want specialized eyewear for different activities—because honestly, you can never have too many sunglasses.
Still unsure? Check out Glade’s full lineup and find the perfect shades for your next adventure.
Unitl next time,
- Tanner
