When Not To Use Polarized Lenses

Polarized lenses have been gaining in popularity due to their ability to dramatically reduce glare from smooth surfaces such as water and roads. Though they are perfect for many outdoor environments there are some instances when using polarized sunglasses may not benefit the wearer.

There is much debate about whether or not using polarized lenses during downhill skiing is a safe practice. Some experts say these lenses reduce the glare caused by the sun’s rays reflecting off the snow. Others warn that using polarized lenses may reduce a skier’s ability to distinguish between regular snow and more dangerous conditions such as icy patches or moguls.

There are also reports that using polarized lenses to view any type of LCD screen, such as the ones in the dashboard of some vehicles, could be problematic. Apparently, when an LCD screen is viewed at a certain angle through polarized lenses the screens can become invisible. Other instances of improper screen viewing can be at ATM (banking) machines or for those who wear polarized lenses indoors and work at a computer with an LCD screen.