Sunglasses are far more than just a fashion statement – they are important for both safety and long-term health. More than just a protective barrier for your eyes from airborne dirt and dust, sunglasses protect you from cataracts, keratitis (inflammation of the cornea that can cause temporary impaired vision) and other ultraviolet radiation-related diseases. Sunglasses also protect your eyes from drying out and make it possible to see in many situations, such as riding into the sunset, when it’s almost impossible to see properly without them.
Keep the following points in mind when looking for a set of shades that will get you riding off into the sunset with confidence:
1. Shape – Wraparound frames or shields offer much better peripheral (side) vision, making them safer to use in areas with nearby traffic, plus they delay the onset of dry eyes when worn while riding. They also offer the best protection from debris, as their wraparound shape leaves very little space around the eyes exposed.
2. Lens types – Polycarbonate is super light and almost unbreakable, but it does not always provide the best optical clarity and can be expensive. One the other hand, plastic can scratch and is also not always the best for optical clarity either. Remember to check your lenses for distortion and get the best lenses you can afford – because the better you can see, the safer you will be.
3. UV protection – Make sure the sunglasses you choose have either UV material in the lenses or a UV-blocking coating.
4. Most importantly, get a pair you will wear; the best sunglasses in the world won’t do you any good unless you wear them.
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