When you order replacement lenses, one of the first choices is polarized or non-polarized. Both block 100% of UV — the difference is how they handle glare. Here's a quick, practical guide.
What polarization does
Sunlight reflecting off flat surfaces — water, wet roads, snow, a car hood — becomes concentrated horizontal glare. A polarized lens has a built-in filter that blocks that glare, so you get sharper contrast, truer color, and far less eye strain.
Choose polarized if you…
- Drive a lot, or spend time near water, snow, or sand
- Fish, boat, golf, run, hike, or cycle outdoors
- Are sensitive to bright light or get tired eyes by mid-afternoon
Choose non-polarized if you…
- Look at LCD screens often while wearing them (dashboards, phones, instrument panels) — polarization can make some screens look dark or patchy
- Are a downhill skier or pilot who needs to read icy patches or cockpit displays
- Simply prefer a classic, even tint
The middle ground
Want glare protection and a tint that adapts to the light? Look at polarized photochromic lenses — one lens that darkens in the sun and cuts glare all day.
IMINTA offers both polarized and non-polarized replacement lenses for hundreds of frames, with free U.S. shipping, 60-day returns and a 1-year warranty. Find your frame →