Give Your Eyes Some Well Deserved Shade
Sunglasses have been around for centuries, dating back to the Roman Empire when emperors would watch gladiator fights through flat panels of smoky quartz to reduce glare. However, it wasn't until the 18th century that sunglasses began to be used as a fashion accessory.
In the early 1900s, sunglasses became more popular among the general public as people began to recognize their practical benefits in reducing glare and protecting the eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays. In 1929, Sam Foster started selling sunglasses on the Atlantic City boardwalk, and soon after, sunglasses became a must-have accessory for Hollywood stars.
During World War II, sunglasses became an essential accessory for soldiers, and the military began to develop sunglasses with specialized lenses to protect pilots' eyes from the glare at high altitudes. In the 1950s and 60s, sunglasses became a symbol of cool and rebellion, with icons like James Dean and Audrey Hepburn sporting popular styles.
In the 1970s and 80s, sunglasses continued to evolve with the introduction of new materials such as lightweight plastics and mirrored lenses. Sports sunglasses also became popular with the rise of outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and cycling.
Today, sunglasses are not only a fashion statement but also an essential accessory for eye protection. They come in a wide range of styles, materials, and colors, and offer advanced features like polarized lenses and photochromic lenses that adjust to changing light conditions.
Choosing a good pair of sunglasses goes beyond just picking out a stylish frame. Here are some tips to help you pick out a good pair of sunglasses:
Look for sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection: The most important factor to consider when choosing sunglasses is their ability to block out harmful UV rays. Look for sunglasses that have a label indicating that they provide 100% UV protection.
Choose lenses with the right tint: The tint of your sunglasses can affect your ability to see clearly in different lighting conditions. Grey, green, and brown tints are popular choices as they provide good color perception without distorting colors.
Consider the shape of the lenses: The shape of the lenses can affect how well they protect your eyes from the sun. Look for sunglasses with lenses that wrap around the sides of your face to provide better coverage.
Check for polarized lenses: Polarized lenses can help reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water, snow, and pavement. If you spend a lot of time outdoors near these surfaces, consider sunglasses with polarized lenses.
Ensure a comfortable fit: Make sure the sunglasses fit comfortably on your face without slipping or pinching. Look for sunglasses with adjustable nose pads or temples for a more customized fit.
Consider your lifestyle: If you lead an active lifestyle, consider sunglasses with shatter-resistant lenses and a durable frame. If you'll be using your sunglasses for driving, look for lenses with anti-reflective coating to reduce glare from other vehicles.