Winter is officially here, which means in some areas stinging winds and cold rain, snow and sleet are also in the forecast. Most of us wouldn't ever think of leaving the house without a jacket in icy weather; nevertheless surprisingly, many people don't think to wear sunglasses. Although the sun may not be our first concern when we are battling the bitter cold, the sun's rays are still in full force during the winter months, and sometimes can be even stronger.
They don't call it a "winter wonderland" for no reason. Particularly in the aftermath of a blizzard, the blanket of snow covering the ground, trees and everything else in sight, actually intensifies the reflection of the sunlight. In fact, without sunglasses it can downright hurt your eyes when you first step outdoors following a glistening snow. The ultraviolet radiation that we are all so careful to avoid in the heat of the summer may actually be more hazardous during the wintertime due to the fact that it reflects off the snow or ice, giving you a second exposure. This is why sunglasses are an essential winter accessory.
Although you want to feel great in your shades, the most important consideration when deciding upon a pair of sunglasses is being certain they provide adequate protection against UV. Make certain your sunglasses block 100 percent of UV rays by looking for an indication that they are labeled UV 400 (this means they block all light with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers, which includes both UVA and UVB rays.) The good news is proper protection for your eyes isn't necessarily expensive. Many of the more affordable options exist that still provide complete ultraviolet protection.
Another important consideration in choosing sun wear is size. You want to make sure your glasses completely shield your eyes and if possible the surrounding areas. The more coverage you have, the less harmful radiation will be able to penetrate. Wrap around frames will also prevent radiation from entering through the sides.
For the skiers or snowboarders out there, it’s important to be aware that UV rays are more powerful at higher elevations, so be particularly sure to keep your eyes guarded on the slopes. In addition to sunglasses, it's a good idea to add on a wide brimmed hat that covers your eyes.
This winter, stay warm and keep your eyes safe! Don't forget to wear your sunglasses.
