Are polarized sunglasses that much better then just UV sunglasses?

UV protection should be on the tip of everyone's mind nowadays in regards to their skin and eyes when they take a stroll on Santa Monica beaches or any outdoor space.  Protecting your eyes from harmful rays can prolong healthy, clear vision for years to come.  Lately optometrist have been recommending polarized lenses over usual sunglasses; what is the real difference?

Most sunglasses you find in optical shops have UV protection, however not all are polarized.  Polarization of a lens means the lens is able to reduce not only direct light but also indirect light.  If you think about the sunlight it comes from one source; the sun (direct light).  There is also light that reflects from other surfaces, like puddles of water reflecting light from the sun (indirect light; glare).  The polarized lens will block the sunlight and this annoying glare; increasing comfort mostly.  Some motorcycle shields will add this to help motorist view puddles of oil on roads.  I find them especially useful on cloudy days when I can't seem to stop squinting from the glare leaving every cloud (light is bouncing from cloud to cloud to increase glare).  They allow me to view the world clearly and reduces my potential for wrinkles near my eyes.  

The UV protection exist in both polarized and non-polarized sunglasses; they are equal in benefits but different in visual comfort.  My personal advice would be to consider polarized lenses (Maui Jim sunglasses are known as world leaders in best polarized sunglasses, we are an official dealer at Eyed LA Optometry) if you spend a lot of time outdoors near reflecting surfaces like the ocean; you're eyes will thank you.   

See and Be Seen! at Eyed LA Optometry in Brentwood, West Los Angeles

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