Most people think of sunglasses as being a summer accessory. They are a necessity for beach days, pool parties, hiking and summer sports. However, they are equally (if not more) important when spending any time outside during the winter months. Here are a few of the biggest reasons why you should keep your prescription sunglasses out even during the colder months.
Snow Reflection
On a clear winter night with a fresh layer of snow on the ground, the light from the moon, stars, and street lamps reflecting on the snow can make nighttime appear almost as bright as a cloudy day. This is because light reflects on the white snow and bounces back. The same thing is true during the day but with even more intensity. Studies show that between 80 and 85% of the UV rays from the sun can bounce off the snow at any given time. This can even make driving difficult as the eyes are exposed to bright light. Even in between snowfalls when there is no snow on the ground, the sun can still reflect off of lighter-colored surfaces such as concrete or traffic signs.
Snow Blindness
Those who participate in winter sports are at an increased risk for a condition known as “snow blindness.” When unprotected eyes are exposed for an extended period of time to the harmful UV rays coming from the sun, the cornea can become sunburned. Not only is this extremely painful, but it can also take up to a week to heal. Frequent overexposure to sunlight even in the winter can cause problems later on, such as cataracts, blurriness, and other forms of decreased vision. It is important to remember that a higher altitude means increased UV levels, so the risk of snow blindness also increases.
Protect from Wind
The air in winter is particularly dry in many areas. When engaging in winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling, you are also often exposed to the cold dry wind that can be present at higher altitudes. Sunglasses can protect the eyes against the drying effects of the wind as well as dirt and dust.
Reduce Eye Strain
In the bright light that can often come during the winter, the eyes are continually having to compensate for the amount of light reaching the retina. When the pupils are continually constricting to keep the bright light from hitting the retina, the eyes can become tired. Eye strain can cause a myriad of symptoms such as headaches, muscle pain in the neck, shoulders, and back, irritated eyes, and even difficulty concentrating. Sunglasses can help keep the eyes from becoming strained when exposed to the sun’s rays.
Sunglasses are extremely important during the winter months just as they are during the summer. Although the air is colder, the sun’s UV rays are just as harmful. Using sunglasses during the winter can also protect the eyes from wind and debris and can keep them from becoming strained. Whether you are planning to engage in winter sports or are simply going to be driving to and from work, a pair of sunglasses is a necessity.