Old Man Winter is here, and the weather is changing. You may find yourself storing away many summer and fall items that will no longer be relevant until next spring. Sunglasses should not be one of the items you’re storing away as they offer tremendous protection to your eyes.

Keeping your sunglasses around during winter will ensure eye protection against many harmful elements.

Sunglasses Offer Protection Against UV Rays in the Winter

Just as sunglasses are crucial to wear during the summer, they are just as important in the winter. UV rays continue to penetrate through cloud cover on a standard winter day. Although temperatures are low and colder, the amount of ultraviolet rays your eyes are exposed to is dangerous.

It’s no surprise that the snow is bright. Some think it’s only due to the brightness of its color. But in fact, 80% of UV radiation is reflected off fresh snow. As you walk out your door on a snowy day, you may notice the intense brightness. Much of the outside light is harmful rays casting down from the sun and reflecting into your eyes.

The American Optometric Association recommends wearing quality sunglasses that block out at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, your sunglasses should screen 75-90 percent of visible light.

Also, learn why you need to wear sunglasses in the fall.

Wear Sunglasses for Winter Activities

Colder and snowy weather does not prevent people from enjoying the outdoors. Much like summer, you may have hobbies that you enjoy in the winter. Whether it’s hitting the slopes, or driving to your local grocery store, sunglasses should always be worn when outside.

Sunglasses during winter activities can also serve as an additional layer to the colder weather. Think about skiing down a large hill and the wind blowing in your face. Although it sounds amazing, your eyes are exposed to danger if not properly protected. The wind can severely dry out your eyes and cause vision issues.

Sunglasses Prevent Snow Blindness

Snow blindness is s temporary eye pain and discomfort after exposure to too much ultraviolet (UV) light. It’s similar to having a sunburn on your eyes. All it takes is being outside for a few minutes to experience this unfortunate situation. Although it’s typically not serious, it may last a few days and lead to other issues.

Issues caused by snow blindness may cause you to get in an auto accident and other hazardous encounters. This is primarily due to decreased eye vision that snow blindness causes. The bright snow reflecting the sun’s UV rays into your eyes is never a good situation. Sunglasses will prevent the winter glare and snow blindness from occurring.

Sunglasses Protect Against Harmful Winter Elements

As stated above, one of the most dangerous elements affecting your eyes is UV rays. Aside from that, winter offers unseen elements and debris that can easily enter your eyes. Wind can blow dirt and dust around and irritate your eyes. We can all agree that it’s not fun when you have to stop enjoying the outdoors because something is in your eye.

Sunglasses help prevent this from happening by acting as a shield. It’s essential to select a pair of quality sunglasses that will endure the outside winter elements and enhance your vision.

How to Select the Right Sunglasses for Winter?

Here at Charlie V, we recommend shadewear with polarized lenses. Frames with polarized lenses will provide the protection your eyes need during the winter months. UV rays are blocked, vision is enhanced, and eye health is kept safe. We offer a variety of sunglasses with the latest style in color and design for all ages. It’s a great way to display your stylish side while enjoying the winter months.