What are polarized sunglasses?

Polarized sunglasses contain a special lens filter that blocks horizontally polarized light - the intense reflected glare that bounces off water, wet roads, snow and glass. Where standard tinted lenses just reduce overall brightness, polarized lenses target the specific type of light that causes the most visual discomfort and eyestrain, while preserving the ambient light you actually need to see clearly.

How 100% polarized lenses work

When sunlight reflects off a horizontal surface, the light waves align horizontally - creating intense, concentrated glare. A polarized lens contains a vertical filter that blocks these waves while allowing other light through, cutting glare without a corresponding loss of visibility.

100% polarized lenses use PEAKPOLAR technology - optimised polarization at 55% that cuts glare and reflections without making screens, phones or GPS devices unreadable. For athletes who rely on data mid-activity, that's a meaningful advantage over standard polarization.

Why choose 100% polarized lenses?

Eliminate glare

Glare from reflective surfaces impairs vision - on water it obscures what's beneath the surface, on roads it hides hazards, on snow it washes out depth and definition. Polarized lenses block reflected light at source. All 100% polarized lenses also carry full UV400 protection, blocking UVA, UVB and UVC regardless of cloud cover.

Enhanced contrast

Remove the visual noise of glare and the eye can read contrast and detail it would otherwise miss. Terrain features become more defined, surfaces read more clearly, colours appear more accurate. Select 100% polarized models pair PEAKPOLAR with HiPER® lens technology for a further step up in depth perception and optical definition.

Reduce eyestrain

Squinting and eye fatigue build up over long days on the slopes or on the trails. Polarized lenses remove the underlying cause, allowing the eyes to settle into a more comfortable visual state - less strain on the bike, on the trail, or anywhere the sun is bright and surfaces are reflective.

Polarized sunglasses for every activity

100% polarized sunglasses are available across both sport performance and lifestyle frames for men and women. On the bike, PEAKPOLAR keeps screens legible mid-ride. On the water, polarized lenses are indispensable - cutting surface glare and allowing you to see beneath it. For trail running and MTB, they define terrain more sharply by stripping away the glare from wet rocks and reflective surfaces. In everyday wear, they make any bright environment more comfortable to be in.

Prescription polarized lenses

Select 100% polarized frames are prescription-ready via the 100% RX Carrier system, allowing prescription lenses to be fitted without compromising fit, coverage or optical quality. Available across sport performance and lifestyle styles. 

Frequently asked questions about polarized sunglasses (FAQs)

Are polarized sunglasses worth it?

For most outdoor activities and everyday use in bright conditions, yes. Polarized lenses offer a meaningfully better visual experience than standard tinted lenses in situations involving reflective surfaces - which is most outdoor environments. The reduction in glare and eyestrain is noticeable, and the benefits compound over long days outdoors.

Can polarized lenses affect screen visibility?

Standard polarization can make LCD screens appear dark or unreadable at certain angles. 100% PEAKPOLAR technology uses optimised 55% polarization specifically engineered to reduce glare while preserving screen legibility - so cycling computers, phones and GPS devices remain visible during activity.

What is the difference between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses?

Non-polarized lenses reduce the overall amount of light reaching the eye but do not specifically target reflected glare. Polarized lenses contain a directional filter that blocks horizontally polarized reflected light - the type that causes the most intense glare from water, roads and snow - while maintaining good overall visibility. The practical difference is significant in high-glare environments.

Can I get polarized sunglasses in my prescription?

Yes. Select 100% frames are compatible with the 100% RX Carrier system, allowing prescription lenses to be fitted while retaining full polarized performance. Check individual product pages for prescription compatibility details.

Are polarized sunglasses good for driving?

Polarized lenses are effective for driving in bright conditions, reducing glare from wet roads, other vehicles and reflective surfaces. However, some drivers find that polarization affects the visibility of certain dashboard displays or windscreen patterns - it's worth testing before extended use. For sport and outdoor use, polarized lenses are straightforwardly beneficial.