Polarised Sunnies: When They’re Worth It (And When They’re Not)

Feb 26, 2026

Everyone says you need polarised sunnies.

But do you?

What do polarised sunnies do over a standard tinted pair and are they worth the extra money?

Let’s explain, in simple terms, what polarised sunnies are all about and if you really need them.

What Are Polarised Sunnies - in Plain English

Polarised sunnies have a polarised lens.

I’m sure you knew that, but it’s good to start with the basics.

Polarised sunnies don’t have a darker tint or extra sun protection, they simply make your vision clearer.

Polarised lenses have a built-in filter that blocks horizontal light.

Horizontal light is essentially glare, where reflections from shiny surfaces shoot intense light into your eyes.

So, polarised sunnies block glare and allow you to see more clearly, making your vision more comfortable.

With glare blocked, you’ll squint less, your eyes won’t be so tired and it’s easier to see when it’s bright and sunny.

An awesome advantage over standard sunnies!

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What Polarised Sunnies Are Best For (Real-Life Use)

So, polarised sunnies have an additional filter and make your vision clearer.

But what are real-world, everyday situations where they actually make a difference to your life?

Here are some common scenarios where polarised sunnies are an advantage over regular tinted sunnies:

Driving - Reflections from the road, other vehicles, windscreens and puddles are reduced, which makes long drives more comfortable and easier on the eyes.
Outdoor work - If you work outdoors, polarised sunnies are a must-have to protect your eyes from long exposure to the sun and its harmful rays.
Fishing - Glare reduction is a huge benefit while fishing. You can see through the water and you can spot fish more easily. This is where polarisation is in its element.
Out on the water - Polarised lenses stop glare from the water and are much easier on your eyes when you’re out on the water.
Long days outside - Whatever you’re up to outside, whether it’s work, sport or weekend trips, polarised sunnies make long days in bright conditions more manageable.

If you'd like a more in-depth explanation of how polarised lenses work, read our polarised sunglasses guide.

Situations Where Polarised Sunnies Can Be Annoying

While most people love the benefits of polarised sunnies, some people out there don’t like polarised lenses.

It’s fair enough, they’re not for everyone.

And it’s a reminder that polarised sunnies doesn’t necessarily mean ‘better’ sunnies.

They just have an additional filter built in. If you don’t like how that filter looks and feels, they might not be for you.

Here are some situations where polarised sunnies aren’t great:

Phones - If your day involves regularly looking at your phone (watch that screen time) polarised sunnies might not be for you as the screens are distorted through polarised lenses.
Dash screens - Same situation as above, polarised sunnies don’t react well to screens in cars.
Low-light conditions - If you’re working in low-light you probably don’t want any sunnies at all, but there are other lens types like clear lenses and yellow lenses which may be more appropriate.
If you’re often in and out - Polarised lenses probably aren’t needed here. Maybe try a photochromic lens.

Polarised vs Regular Sunnies: Do You Actually Need the Upgrade?

Whether you need polarised sunnies very much comes down to your lifestyle.

If you work outside (Tradies, we’re talking to you here) polarised sunnies are absolutely worth the extra investment. The glare reduction will pay dividends in the long run.

Plus, if driving is a big part of your job, polarised sunnies are essential too.

You’ll come to use them every day and you’ll notice the difference between polarised lenses and standard tinted lenses.

Thinking about the weekends, if you’re outdoorsy and love getting out and about and filling your time with fishing, boating or four-wheel driving, polarised sunnies will come into their own.

And to be honest, even if you don’t fit into either of these categories, polarised sunnies are worth a go and will probably have some benefit to you, particularly in Australia.

The lenses’ glare reduction is awesome and generally makes things easier on your eyes.

There are occasions when the polarisation can be a bit jarring - when you glance at a screen for example.

But, for the most part, polarised sunnies are an advantage and are at least worth trying.

Are Polarised Sunnies Worth the Extra Cost?

If glare regularly bothers you, the short answer is yes.

Polarised sunnies don’t make things darker or offer extra protection, they make your vision clearer.

You’re not paying for a buzzword or some flashy gimmick.

You’re paying for clearer vision in harsher conditions.

If you spend serious time outside, the upgrade will justify itself pretty quickly.

Polarised Sunnies for Work and Everyday Wear

Polarised sunnies are a must if you’re working outside.

And for a lot of people who work outside, safety is another crucial part of daily life as there can be hazards everywhere.

SafeStyle offers polarised sunnies, with the added benefit of certified safety.

On worksites, glare can be uncomfortable, distracting and dangerous. Glare and reflections can come from metal, glass, roads and other shiny surfaces and can contribute to eye fatigue over a long shift.

Ultimately, polarised sunnies offer a huge safety and comfort boost while working.

Lens Colour Matters More Than Most People Think

Did you know that there are multiple colours of polarised lenses?

This takes your polarised sunnies to the next level!

They’re not a fashion accessory (although the different colour lenses do look very cool), they actually serve a functional and practical purpose.

At SafeStyle, we offer both grey and brown polarised lenses.

Grey polarised lenses offer a natural colour balance and are the standard polarised lenses you’d normally think of. A great lens for everyday wear.
Brown polarised lenses enhance contrast and depth perception and offer a warmer colour to your vision. It can be great for driving and for being out on the water.

What colour you prefer is generally just personal preference.

The best thing to do is try both, compare them and see which polarised lens you prefer to use.

FAQs About Polarised Sunnies

Are polarised sunnies worth it?

For people who spend a lot of time in bright, reflective conditions, yes. They reduce glare and improve comfort, especially for driving, outdoor work and when you’re on the water.

Should I wear polarised sunnies every day?

You can. Go for it! They’re absolutely suitable for everyday outdoor use. If glare is common in your environment, they’re a practical daily option and can be a game-changer.

Are polarised sunnies good for work?

Yes - particularly if you work outdoors where there are reflective surfaces like concrete, metal and machinery. They can help reduce eye fatigue during long shifts outdoors.

Can polarised sunnies affect phone screens?

Sometimes. Certain screens can appear distorted due to the way polarised lenses filter light.

Are polarised sunnies better for driving?

They’re often a strong choice for driving because they reduce reflections from roads and vehicles, making bright conditions more comfortable and easier on the eyes. But if you glance at your maps, they can interfere with your phone screen. This might be why you'd prefer a standard tinted lens.

Final Thoughts: Should You Choose Polarised Sunnies?

Polarised sunnies make a massive difference if they are useful to your lifestyle.

If you spend lots of time outdoors, driving or on the water, they’re definitely worth the upgrade.

Essentially, it comes down to how you use your sunnies as to whether polarised lenses are the best option for you.

If you’re looking for polarised sunnies with added certified safety protection that are designed for real-world conditions - whether that’s on-site, on the road or on the weekend - look no further than a pair of polarised SafeStyles.