by Maddie Shelton | Nov 3, 2023 | Eye Health, Eyewear
Winter’s glorious landscapes and glistening snow can create a picturesque wonderland. However, for those who spend time outdoors, this beauty often comes with a blinding challenge—snow glare. Understanding the science behind snow glare and how polarized shades can enhance visibility is essential for staying safe and thriving during winter activities.
The Science Behind Snow Glare
Snow glare, also known as snow blindness or photokeratitis, occurs when the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are reflected off the snow’s surface. This reflection can be incredibly intense and damaging to the eyes. Snow is Mother Nature’s natural mirror, bouncing the sunlight in all directions, including directly into your eyes.
Here’s how it works:
- Reflection: When sunlight hits the snow, it bounces off the surface at multiple angles.
- Scattering: These reflected rays scatter in all directions, including directly into your eyes.
- Intensity: The intensity of snow glare can be significantly higher than the usual sunlight due to the additional reflection.
- UV Exposure: Snow glare exposes your eyes to harmful UV rays, which can cause painful damage to the cornea, just like a sunburn on the skin.
Why Polarized Sunglasses Are Essential
Polarized sunglasses are designed to combat glare by blocking polarized light, such as the light reflected off water, roads, and, in this case, snow. Here’s how they work:
- Polarization: Polarized lenses contain a specially curated filter that blocks horizontal light waves while allowing vertical waves to pass through.
- Glare Reduction: By filtering out horizontally polarized light, polarized sunglasses drastically reduce glare and reflections.
- Enhanced Clarity: These lenses improve contrast and clarity, making objects in your vision appear sharper and more defined.
- UV Protection: Besides reducing glare, polarized lenses offer 100% UV protection, safeguarding your eyes from harmful UV rays year-round.
Benefits of Polarized Sunglasses in Winter
- Improved Visibility: Polarized sunglasses improve visibility in wintry conditions by reducing the intensity of glare. This is especially vital for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and driving.
- Reduced Eye Strain: Squinting and straining your eyes to see in bright, snowy conditions can lead to eye fatigue. Polarized sunglasses reduce the need to squint, thus reducing eye strain.
- Enhanced Safety: Better visibility means safer outdoor activities. Whether hitting the slopes, driving on snow and ice-covered roads, or simply taking a winter stroll, polarized sunglasses can help prevent incidents caused by impaired vision.
- Comfort and Eye Health: Protecting your eyes from the harsh effects of snow glare not only ensures your comfort but also safeguards your eye health now and down the road. Photokeratitis, which can result from UV exposure, is painful and can temporarily affect your vision by damaging the cornea.
Our Top Picks
- Maui Jim: Maui Jim is a brand known for its high-quality polarized lenses that enhance color contrast and reduce glare, making it easier to see in bright sunlight and snow glare.
- Zeal Optics: Zeal Optics curates eco-friendly, high-quality frames ready for any winter adventure. They also provide 100% UV protection, which means they block out harmful UVA and UVB rays that can cause eye damage and increase the risk of eye diseases.
- Ray-Ban: Ray-Bans are made with high-quality polarized lenses that reduce glare and provide excellent vision on snowy days.
Understanding the science of snow glare and the benefits of polarized sunglasses is crucial for anyone spending time outdoors in the winter. These specialized sunglasses not only enhance visibility but also provide essential protection against UV radiation. When winter arrives, have a reliable pair of polarized sunglasses to enjoy the snowy wonderland while keeping your eyes safe and comfortable. Stay stylish and protected during the winter season with this essential eyewear accessory. The Sunglass Shoppe has a variety of unique and designer frames that can be fitted with polarized lenses, both prescription and non-prescription. Visit one of our four locations in Petoskey, Traverse City, and Saugatuck. We’ll help you find the right sunglasses for your lifestyle and unique personality.
by Maddie Shelton | Oct 10, 2023 | Eyewear, Trends
Just as the stars influence our personalities and destinies, they can also inspire our sense of fashion. Are you curious to know which sunglasses align best with your zodiac sign? Look no further as we embark on a cosmic journey through the eyewear universe. We will explore how your star sign traits can lead you to the ideal pair of sunnies. Whether you’re an adventurous Aries or a dreamy Pisces, we’ve got you covered.
Aries (March 21 – April 19): Dynamic and Bold
Aries individuals are known for their fearless and adventurous spirit. They gravitate toward bold and daring sunglass styles that make a statement. Think oversized frames with vibrant colors or unique geometric shapes, such as the ILLA or Sïto collections. Aries, your sunglasses should match your unstoppable energy!
Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Practical and Luxurious
Taurus signs appreciate the finer things in life, and their sunglasses are no exception. Look for classic, high-quality frames like timeless aviators or elegant tortoiseshell patterns. You can never go wrong with the infamous Ray-Ban collection! Taurus, your sunglasses should be as practical as they are luxurious.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Versatile and Curious
Geminis have a natural curiosity and love for versatility. Opt for sunglasses with neutral-colored lenses or frames that can be adapted to various styles. Maui Jim would be a fantastic and diverse collection! Geminis, your sunglasses should coincide with your ever-changing interests.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Protective and Nurturing
Cancer signs are nurturing and protective by nature. Consider sunglasses with polarized lenses or UV protection to shield your sensitive eyes. Zeal Optics offers exquisite UV protection with a fashionable touch. Look for frames with gentle curves and soft colors that reflect your caring personality.
Leo (July 23 – August 22): Confident and Dramatic
Leos love the spotlight and gravitate toward sunglasses that exude confidence and drama. Look for oversized, glamorous frames or ones adorned with bold embellishments. Consider checking out the Morel collection! Leos, your sunglasses should be as radiant as you are!
Virgo (August 23 – September 22): Practical and Detail-Oriented
Virgos appreciate practicality and attention to detail. Choose sunglasses with clean lines and minimalist designs. Focus on high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The Ovvo Optics collection creates high-performance, technologically advanced eyewear that undergoes 85 steps of craftmanship. Virgos, your sunglasses should reflect your meticulous nature.
Libra (September 23 – October 22): Harmonious and Stylish
Libras have a natural sense of style and seek harmony in all things. Opt for sunglasses that feature balanced designs, like classic wayfarers or round frames. Ray-Bans would be an excellent choice to achieve a balanced and stylish statement. Look for color combinations that complement your wardrobe effortlessly.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Mysterious and Intense
Scorpios have a magnetic and intense personality. Choose sunglasses with dark, mysterious frames and tinted lenses. The State Optical Co. collection boasts many darker frames and lenses in various shapes. Embrace cat-eye or square styles that accentuate your enigmatic allure.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Adventurous and Optimistic
Sagittarians have a spirit of adventure and optimism. Go for sporty sunglasses with durable frames to keep up with your active lifestyle. Costa sunglasses are the perfect choice for those on the go, seeking thrills and high-quality durability. Look for vibrant colors that reflect your inner love for life.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Practical and Disciplined
Capricorns are practical and disciplined individuals. Opt for timeless and durable sunglasses like classic aviators or rectangular frames. You can never go wrong with a pair of Oakley shades! Focus on functionality and quality that will stand the test of time.
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Innovative and Unique
Aquarians are known for their innovative thinking and unique style. Choose sunglasses with unconventional shapes or futuristic designs. The Nina Mûr crafts gorgeous frames from refined natural wood, various color options, and shapes. This collection is the perfect combination of innovation, design, and quality! Embrace unconventional materials that reflect your forward-thinking approach.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Dreamy and Compassionate
Pisceans have a dreamy and compassionate nature. Look for sunglasses with soft, flowing lines and ethereal colors. The Krewe collection offers sunglasses with an array of colors, patterns, and shapes while maintaining a delicate and classic style. Consider frames with gradient or pastel-tinted lenses that capture your empathetic spirit.
Your star sign can offer valuable insights into your personality and style preferences, even when selecting the perfect pair of sunglasses. So, the next time you’re at one of The Sunglass Shoppe’s four locations searching for eyewear, let the stars guide you toward the sunglasses that reflect your style!
415 Bridge St., Charlevoix, MI 49720
325 E. Lake St., Petoskey, MI 49770
222 Butler St., Saugatuck, MI 49453
137 E. Front St., Traverse City, MI 49686
by Maddie Shelton | Sep 8, 2023 | Travel
As summer’s warmth ends and the cool embrace of autumn rolls in, Traverse City, Michigan, transforms into a picturesque wonderland. The vibrant foliage, crisp air, and a bounty of seasonal offerings make it an ideal destination for a fall getaway. If you’re planning a visit, here are three must-do activities to take full advantage of the beauty and charm of Traverse City during the fall season.
Explore the Colorful Trails: Fall in Traverse City means a breathtaking display of colors. The surrounding forests and parks boast reds, oranges, and yellows. To fully appreciate this natural beauty, embark on a hiking adventure in one of the nearby state parks or nature reserves. The Grand Traverse region has an array of scenic trails, such as the Old Mission Peninsula, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the Boardman River Trail. Whether you’re an avid hiker or stroll, these trails offer a memorable journey through Michigan’s fall foliage.
Sip and Savor at Local Orchards and Wineries: Fall would only be complete with indulging in the region’s apple and grape harvests. Traverse City is renowned for its apple orchards and vineyards, making it the perfect place to experience the season’s essence. Take a scenic drive along the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail or the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail, where you can sample exceptional wines while surrounded by stunning autumn hues. Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery continues to be an ideal spot to explore unique wines and admire the view on the upper deck. Additionally, visit one of the many local orchards, such as Rennie Orchards, to pick your own apples or savor freshly baked apple pies and cider donuts. It’s a delicious way to celebrate fall’s flavors.
Traverse the Cherry Capital: Traverse City is famously known as the Cherry Capital of the World, and fall is the perfect time to explore its fruitful heritage. To taste Traverse City’s iconic cherries, take advantage of the chance to savor cherry-infused dishes, desserts, and beverages at local restaurants and cafes. You might even stumble upon a farmers’ market showcasing the region’s rich agricultural traditions if you’re lucky.
Traverse City, Michigan, beckons with its autumn charm, offering a delightful mix of outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and seasonal beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply seeking a serene fall escape, this destination has something to offer. Embrace the magic of fall in Traverse City and create lasting memories amidst the stunning landscapes and warm-hearted communities that define this enchanting corner of Michigan. Amid the fall exploration, stop by our downtown Traverse City location to explore our eyewear collections!
by Maddie Shelton | Aug 8, 2023 | Eye Health, Eyewear
We have entered a digital era where screen time has increased dramatically. Although these advancements have enhanced how we work, play, and communicate, there are some concerns when it comes to our eyes. Understanding and preventing digital eyestrain can help you avoid discomfort and protect your vision. Join us as we explain digital eyestrain, the symptoms, and tips to keep your eyes healthy in a technologically progressive age.
What is digital eyestrain?:
Digital eyestrain encompasses various vision-related issues arising from the use of digital devices like computers, smartphones, tablets, and e-readers. As we participate in screen time for extended periods, our eyes constantly focus and refocus, which can result in discomfort and strain. The overall main contributing factors to digital eyestrain are:
- Prolonged screen time: When spending long periods looking at a screen with no break, our eyes work overtime to maintain focus.
- Blue light exposure: Digital screens emit high-energy blue light, which can penetrate the eye deeply, cause eye fatigue, and disrupt sleep patterns.
- Screen glare and reflections: Glare caused by less-than-ideal lighting conditions and screen reflections puts added strain on our eyes as they struggle to decipher images.
- Small text and fonts: Squinting to read smaller text or fonts can cause strain to the eyes.
Recognizing symptoms of digital eyestrain:
The symptoms of digital eyestrain include eye fatigue, dryness, redness, burning sensation, headaches, blurred vision, and discomfort in the neck and shoulders. When detected early on, discomfort or the progression of discomfort can be avoided. If you are experiencing symptoms of digital eyestrain, consider contacting your ophthalmologist.
Understanding the 20-20-20 rule:
The 20-20-20 rule is an effective preventive measure before symptoms arise. The 20-20-20 rule suggests taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus on something 20 feet away to reduce eye strain and fatigue caused by prolonged screen use. This concept is easy yet effective when considering the health of your eyes and comfort.
Ergonomics and workspace optimization:
An eye-friendly workspace is a setup that prioritizes optimal vision comfort and reduces eye strain. It includes proper lighting, screen positioning at eye level, minimizing glare, and maintaining a comfortable working distance from the screen to promote healthy eye habits during long hours of computer use. Consider using an anti-glare screen protector to avoid reflections that can contribute to digital eyestrain.
Blue light protection:
The Sunglass Shoppe offers digital eyestrain lenses that filter harmful blue light, helping to keep your eyes protected and comfortable. Whether or not you have a prescription, you can benefit from this lens. Students have said that this has been a wonderful option for them.
Creating a digital detox routine:
Mindful screen usage and setting aside time for relaxation and outdoor activities are great ways to relieve your eyes from screens. This is an excellent option for those who work on computers and phones all day; consider avoiding screens for 1-2 hours after work each day.
Digital eyestrain is a common challenge in our technology-driven world, but armed with knowledge and proactive measures, we can easily protect our eyes and enjoy digital experiences. Implementing simple yet effective prevention strategies ensures your eyes remain vibrant and healthy as you tackle the next school year or any screen-filled endeavor. Prioritize your ocular well-being, and let your vision shine! The Sunglass Shoppe offers digital eyestrain lenses whether or not you have a prescription. Stop by one of our optical locations in Petoskey and Traverse City to learn more!
by Maddie Shelton | Jul 19, 2023 | Eyewear, Trends
With so many choices in brands, shapes, materials, and more, shopping for the ideal pair of sunglasses can be intimidating. One of the top things to consider when shopping is which frames best complement your face shape. In this blog post, we will guide you through tips and recommendations to help you find the perfect sunglasses that flatter your features and incorporate your style.
Identifying Your Face Shape
Although everyone has a unique face shape, there are five types that fit most people. When differentiating a face shape, measuring the face length, forehead width, cheekbone width, and jawline width are important. These are all determining factors when identifying a face shape.
- Round: A round face shape has a rounded hairline and jawline, with equal face length and width.
- Square: The jawline and forehead are typically wider, with cheekbones that are angular and limited curves.
- Oval: While combining the characteristics of a round and square face shape, the jawline and chin are more rounded than a square shape’s angular features.
- Rectangle: The length of the face is longer than the width, with more prominent cheeks in the lower half of the face.
- Heart: With a broader face, the most significant distinguishing feature would be a widow’s peak in the hairline, along with a narrow chin.
Round Face Frames
When focusing on a round face, we recommend looking at angular frames to add definition and balance the rounded features. Square, rectangular, and cat-eye frames will provide contrasting shapes through your features. L.a. Eyeworks is an excellent collection with unique frame shapes and colors.
Square Face Frames
Typically those with a square face will have more accentuated features like the jawline. Incorporating a touch of femininity through round or oval frames will contrast with the angles of a square face. Maui Jim offers many rounded frames varying in color and material. The Sunglass Shoppe has the largest collection of Maui Jim sunglasses in Michigan. The options are endless!
Oval Face Frames
An oval face shape is said to be one of the most versatile due to the combination of round and square features. Oversized frames such as aviators and wayfarers show off the natural symmetry of the face. Check out the Ray-Ban collection with renowned aviators and wayfarers varying in material and lens color.
Rectangle Face Frames
The act of illusion is used when matching frames with a rectangular face shape to shorten the appearance of length. Wide and oversized frames help to expand the width of the face. Sito offers oversized and thick frames in unique colors to illude a rectangular face.
Heart Face Frames
Balance is key when matching frames with a heart-shaped face, because of the emphasis on the forehead and chin. Aviators and cat-eye frames are recommended to add width to the lower part of the face. We recommend exploring the Oakley and Lafont collections due to their varying shaped frames and one-of-a-kind colors and materials.
Finding the perfect pair of frames to match your style is not only the ideal outcome, but it will help to boost your confidence. While face shape can be a wonderful guideline when browsing, your comfort, personal style, and preference should be the ultimate deciding factors. Let your creativity and individuality shine through your eyewear. Visit one of the Sunglass Shoppe’s four locations in Michigan to explore our collections and find a pair of sunglass or eyeglass frames that will help you radiate confidently!
