Classic Sunglasses to Wear for Driving

Jul 29, 2019 02:30 PM EDT | Hannah Smith

If you've ever experienced coming up over a hill into the low sun, you'll know exactly how scary it can be. Without sunglasses, you literally can't see a thing. Driving is tiring on the eyes and driving in conditions of high glare, and that could be snowscapes, wet roads or bright sun, is particularly tiring. Wearing the right pair of sunglasses will make driving a safer and more comfortable experience.

Most of us, when we choose a pair of sunglasses, probably spend most of the time thinking about what style of frame is going to look the coolest,but when it comes to sunglasses for driving, you really need to think carefully about getting the right pair, because some sunglasses can impair your vision, rather than enhance it.

Choose the right style of frame

Don't choose a heavy frame for driving or a chunky frame that blocks your peripheral vision. Go for a frame that is lightweight and has large lenses. Aviators were designed for pilots and consequently are a great sunglass style for driving, but wrap-around sports glasses also work well.

Not all lenses are suitable

Harmful UV rays pass through the glass, so even when driving you should be choosing lenses with 100% UV protection, however, category four lenses, which are designed for strong sunlight are far too dark for regular driving. Your driving lenses should be category two, which filter somewhere between 18% and 40% of light and will not impair your vision. Some colored lenses reduce the color spectrum, so for example, pink, blue and green lenses make red, an important color to see when driving, indistinguishable. Grey and brown are color neutral and don't alter how colors appear. Gradient lenses enable you to see the dashboard but are unhelpful when the sun is low. Photochromatic lenses, which respond to UV light, don't function properly inside a car because of your windshield filters out about 40% of UV rays. Polarized lenses are the best choice because they provide glare reduction and improve clarity.

Here are four stylish shades that are great for driving, but if there's nothing here that you fancy, remember, it's always worth choosing a branded pair, to ensure you have durable frames and quality lenses.

Maui Jim Peahi

These sunglasses take their name from the legendary surf break on Maui's north shore and are known for the durability of their frames and the outstanding clarity of their lenses. These polarized, wide lenses, with a wrap around the frame, sit close to the face and are lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Ray-Ban RB3183

A super lightweight, curved frame from this iconic brand. You can even have your prescription lenses fitted.

Oakley Holbrook

Lightweight plastic frames and lenses, these polarized driving glasses are some of the most reasonably priced on the market.

Tom Ford Marlon TFO 339

These very lightweight Aviators are a comfortable and stylish choice for driving in all conditions.

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