What Edmonton Residents Need to Know for Summer Eye Safety
When summer finally hits Edmonton, Westlock, and Leduc, we all want to make the most of those long, sunny days. Whether you’re hiking in Elk Island, relaxing at Hawrelak Park, or cruising down the Anthony Henday, a good pair of sunglasses is more than a style choice — it’s an essential part of protecting your vision. Let’s discuss the difference between polarized vs UV protection sunglasses!
But not all sunglasses are created equal. One of the most common questions we get at the clinic is: “should I be looking for polarized or UV lenses?” The answer? Ideally, both. But let’s break it down so you can understand exactly what each does and why it matters — especially here in Alberta, where the sun can be deceptively intense.
What is UV Protection?
UV protection sunglasses are specifically designed to shield your eyes from ultraviolet rays, which can cause long-term damage. UV light includes both UVA and UVB rays, and overexposure can increase your risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and even certain types of eye cancer.
When shopping for sunglasses in Edmonton, make sure you’re looking for lenses that offer 100% UV protection or are labeled UV400 — this means they block all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers, covering both UVA and UVB rays.
Why it matters for Edmonton residents: Even though we’re not as close to the equator as some, Edmonton’s long daylight hours in summer — especially during peak sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. — mean more prolonged UV exposure. And if you’re spending time in reflective environments like near water or snow (yes, late-season snowmelt still counts), that UV exposure is even more intense.
What Are Polarized Sunglasses?
Polarized sunglasses reduce glare caused by light reflecting off flat surfaces, like roads, lakes, or car hoods. This glare doesn’t just make it hard to see — it can cause eye strain and headaches after extended exposure. Polarized lenses contain a special filter that blocks this horizontal light, making your view clearer and more comfortable.
Where they shine in Edmonton: Polarized sunglasses are especially helpful if you spend a lot of time outdoors — think boating on the North Saskatchewan River, fishing at Wabamun Lake, or driving west toward the Rockies for a summer weekend getaway. They’re also great for golfers, cyclists, and anyone who enjoys Edmonton’s many festivals and outdoor events.
Polarized vs UV Protection: Do You Have to Choose?
Nope — and you shouldn’t. It’s important to understand that polarization and UV protection are not the same thing. A lens can be polarized but offer no UV protection, and vice versa.
Ideally, your summer sunglasses should do both:
- Block 100% of UV rays
- Reduce glare through polarization
If you’re unsure whether your current sunglasses check both boxes, bring them into the clinic — we’re happy to help you find out.
The Gold Standard: Maui Jim PolarizedPlus2 Technology
At The Optometrists’ Clinic, we’re proud to carry Maui Jim sunglasses, which represent the pinnacle of lens technology. What sets Maui Jim apart isn’t just that they combine UV protection with polarization — it’s how they’ve revolutionized what sunglasses can do for your vision.
Beyond Basic Protection: Maui Jim’s patented PolarizedPlus2 technology goes beyond shielding your eyes from glare and harmful UV to reveal and enhance the world’s true vivid colors in detail. While standard polarized lenses simply reduce glare, Maui Jim lenses actually enhance your visual experience.
The Science Behind the Technology: Maui Jim infuses their lenses with a patented blend of three rare Earth elements to enhance red, green and blue light waves. These elements increase and balance the saturation of colors we need to see and filter out the colors we cannot see. This means you’re not just seeing less glare — you’re seeing more vibrant, true-to-life colors than you would with your naked eye.
Six Advanced Technologies in Every Lens:
- Complete UV Protection: 100% elimination of harmful UV radiation, earning the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation
- Advanced Polarization: Eliminates 99.9% of glare while maintaining sharp depth perception
- Color Enhancement: The rare earth elements work like magnets to pull red, green, and blue light to your eye’s cones, making colors pop naturally
- Blue Light Protection: Reduces High-energy Visible Radiation (HEV) without removing beneficial blues, protecting against potential long-term damage
- Anti-Reflective Treatment: Eliminates “bounce-back” glare from behind, reducing eye strain
- Scratch-Resistant Coating: Proprietary CLEARSHELL treatment on both sides ensures long-lasting durability
Perfect for Alberta’s Unique Conditions: Whether you’re dealing with bright prairie sun, reflective snow, or the intense glare off Alberta’s countless lakes, Maui Jim’s technology adapts to provide optimal vision. By eliminating 99.9% of glare and reducing the impact of the sun’s brightness, the lenses allow your eyes to stay relaxed, avoiding eye fatigue, wrinkles around the eyes, and even headaches.
How to Choose the Right Sunglasses for You
Here’s what to consider when shopping for sunglasses in Edmonton this summer:
UV Rating: Look for lenses labeled “UV400” or “100% UVA/UVB protection.”
Polarization: Ask for polarized lenses if you’re often around water, driving, or doing any activity where glare is an issue.
Fit and Coverage: Wraparound styles or larger lenses offer better protection by covering more of your eye area.
Lens Colour: Grey, brown, and green are great all-purpose tints that reduce glare without distorting colours. With Maui Jim, you have additional specialized options like HCL Bronze for everyday use, Maui Rose for sports, and Neutral Grey for the brightest conditions.
Prescription Options: You don’t have to sacrifice vision for sun safety. Prescription sunglasses or clip-ons are available for most prescriptions. Maui Jim offers prescription options in their MauiBrilliant lens material, providing the same advanced technology for those who need vision correction.
Lens Materials: Maui Jim offers several advanced materials:
- MauiBrilliant: Nearly as clear as glass but one-third the weight, perfect for everyday wear and prescriptions
- MauiPure: The most popular choice, offering excellent durability and optical clarity
- SuperThin Glass: 32% thinner than standard glass with the crispest optics and best scratch resistance
Experience the Maui Jim Difference!
The difference between basic sunglasses and Maui Jim PolarizedPlus2 technology isn’t just about protection — it’s about transforming how you see the world. Colors appear more vibrant, details become sharper, and your eyes feel more comfortable, even during long days in Alberta’s intense summer sun.
Book a Summer Eyewear Consultation
At our Edmonton clinic, we carry a wide range of Maui Jim sunglasses — including their full selection of PolarizedPlus2 options — for adults, kids, and prescription wearers. Our team can walk you through the best choices for your lifestyle, your look, and most importantly, your eye health.
Don’t let summer sneak by without protecting your vision. Book an appointment with us today to explore your options, or drop by to experience the Maui Jim difference for yourself. Once you see the world through PolarizedPlus2 lenses, you’ll understand why they’re considered the gold standard in sun protection.
