Sunglasses are useful regardless of where you live. In sunnier countries they cut out harmful UV rays and the tint cuts down the amount of light going into your eyes. In a place like my native Scotland, not so sunny, sunglasses are great for drivers dealing with low sunlight during the winter – and sometimes the sun during summer. Tinted lenses are good to have if you’re eyes have any level of photosensitivity. It should be noted that using sunglasses while driving is classified legally as night driving and clouds do cover the sun. It may be advisable to go for a tint with 25% transmission (cuts out 75% of light).

Polarized finish is good for sunglasses. It suppresses bright reflections of sunlight. This is excellent for drivers who have to deal with reflection on other car’s windows, side mirrors and other reflective surfaces. If you enjoy outdoor activities you may benefit from polarization especially if you fish – you can see just under the surface – or play golf, the lens cuts out any reflection from the course’s surface and water.

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Photochromic lenses will tint your lenses in accordance with the UV levels. This is useful for people who are photo sensitive. Some modern versions will change colour in cars – even with windows that block out UV light. If you buy your photochromics in Northern Europe do not expect them to be as effective in other parts of the world. This is because the lenses are designed to work in specific regions (UV light intensity will vary from region to region).

Children

For children’s glasses, spend a couple of quid more and get UV protection on the lenses as well as a pair of sunglasses. Up to 80% of the UV light absorbed by our eyes happens during our childhood. Blue eyes absorb more light than brown eyes. If your child has a light coloured iris, this should be a double incentive to get your child UV