Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience, but polarized glasses it also comes with inherent risks. One of these risks is constant exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause eye damage, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and even skin cancer around the eyes. Wearing polarized glasses while riding can help reduce these risks, but are they really good for motorcycle riding? In this article, we will examine the benefits and drawbacks of polarized glasses for motorcycle riders.
First, let’s define what polarized glasses are. Polarized glasses are designed to reduce glare from surfaces such as water, snow, and roadways. They work by blocking horizontally polarized light waves, which are the primary cause of glare. This makes them a popular choice for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and driving. The polarized lenses can be made of glass or plastic and are available in various colors, including gray, brown, and green.
Now, let’s examine the advantages of wearing polarized glasses while riding a motorcycle. First and foremost, they reduce glare, which is particularly useful when riding on sunny days or during sunset or sunrise. Glare can be very distracting and even dangerous, as it can obscure obstacles and impair vision. Polarized glasses also enhance contrast, which makes it easier to see objects on the road, such as potholes, debris, and other hazards. They can also improve visual clarity and reduce eye strain, which can be beneficial during long rides.
Another advantage of polarized glasses is that they offer protection against harmful UV rays. Exposure to UV radiation can cause a range of eye problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and even skin cancer around the eyes. Polarized glasses can block up to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays, which makes them an effective way to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
However, there are some drawbacks to wearing polarized glasses while riding a motorcycle. One potential issue is that they can reduce visibility in certain situations. For example, some riders report that polarized glasses can make it difficult to see digital displays, LCD screens, or other reflective surfaces, such as mirrors or wet pavement. They can also create a rainbow effect when looking through tinted windscreens or helmet visors, which can be distracting.
Another issue is that some polarized glasses can alter color perception. This can be particularly problematic when riding in changing lighting conditions, such as during sunset or sunrise, or in areas with rapidly changing shadows. Riders who rely on color cues, such as when identifying traffic signals or brake lights, may find that polarized glasses can be a hindrance.
So, are polarized glasses good for motorcycle riding? The answer is not straightforward. While they offer numerous benefits, including reducing glare and protecting against UV radiation, they also have some potential drawbacks, such as reduced visibility and altered color perception. Ultimately, the decision to wear polarized glasses while riding a motorcycle comes down to personal preference and specific riding conditions. Riders should weigh the benefits and drawbacks and choose the option that best suits their needs.
If you decide to wear polarized glasses while riding a motorcycle, there are some important factors to consider when choosing a pair. Look for glasses with a wraparound design that provides ample coverage and minimizes peripheral glare. Also, choose glasses with lenses that are shatterproof and scratch-resistant, as well as frames that fit securely and comfortably under a helmet. Finally, consider getting glasses with interchangeable lenses to adapt to changing lighting conditions.
In conclusion, polarized glasses can be a useful accessory for motorcycle riders, but they are not without their limitations. They offer benefits such as reduced glare and UV protection but can also reduce visibility and alter color perception. Riders should weigh the pros and cons