The sun is shining, the weather is warm; it’s a great season to be outdoors in Wyoming. But don’t forget to protect your eyes from that summer sun!

That’s right, your eyes! Too much sun exposure can lead to cataracts and other eye ailments. By wearing sunglasses you can help protect your eyes, and they may just help you see better during your outdoor adventures.

How do you choose the right sunglasses?

When you buy sunglasses, make sure they offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection. Sunglasses that are simply dark, or offer less than 100 percent protection, are not good enough for your eyes. This is because, depending on how dark they are, the shade of the lenses may cause your pupils to dilate and let in more light, exposing your eyes to more of the sun’s radiation.

Not sure if your sunglasses offer 100 percent protection? Stop by our Optical Center – we can test them!

UVA vs. UVB

UV rays are the sun’s ultraviolet rays, a form of radiation. UVA rays are long-wave, and UVB rays are short-wave, although both can only be detected and measured with scientific equipment. Both UVA and UVB rays can be harmful to your eyes, and both need to be blocked out.

Polarized Lenses

Polarized lenses are like mini-blinds for your eyes. Mini, tiny, blinds that block glare and can help you see more clearly. They also help you see through water, so they can be great for fishing. (Some fishermen favor red and green-tinted glasses, which are made to cut out some blue colors and give the wearer clearer vision through the water.) Polarized lenses don’t automatically block ultraviolet rays, though, so make sure to buy polarized sunglasses that also offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection.

We offer prescription sunglasses with no appointment necessary. Learn more about our Optical Center here.

Notice

Our Optical Department will close at 2:00 PM on November 20th to attend the memorial service for a dear friend and colleague. 

We apologize for the inconvenience.