How to choose the best sunglasses for driving

Let’s face it; the UK isn’t exactly blessed when it comes to sunshine. In the depths of winter, it can feel like we’ll never see the sun again! But when it does finally make an appearance, the country can feel like a completely different place.

If you’re planning to hit the road to make the most of the sunshine, chances are, you’re more likely to remember your umbrella than a pair of sunglasses. But when the sun’s shining and there’s a lot of glare on the roads, it’s important that you can see clearly while driving.

Don’t get caught out by glare

Sudden sunshine can spring up on you! In June and July, the sun is at its strongest at 1pm and UV levels can be very high, especially in the south. And if the sun returns after a heavy shower, you might end up facing bright glare while the roads are still wet. When light conditions change quickly, it’s essential to have a good pair of suitable sunglasses to hand.

The law on wearing sunglasses while driving

At best, glare can be a minor distraction, and at worst, it could lead to a serious accident. According to the AA, glare is one of the most frequent causes of accidents on the roads but there’s an easy way to prevent them: the right pair of sunglasses!

The Federation of Manufacturing Opticians states that lenses will be suitable for driving if:

• Your vision remains clear
• There is enough light for you to see properly

Can I wear normal sunglasses for driving?

Unfortunately, sunglasses sold for everyday wear might not work behind the wheel, especially if they’re too dark or have a statement frame that compromises your peripheral vision.

Oversized frames – as popularised by the likes of Victoria Beckham – may look good but they can make it tough harder to spot hazards on the road.

To avoid accidents, it’s important to choose a frame that lets you see clearly from every angle.

What are the best sunglasses for driving?

Photochromic lenses

Photochromic lenses – or variable tint lenses – adapt to the level of brightness they’re exposed to. This means that, typically, the lenses will turn darker when exposed to more light, although you’ll need to make sure that your pair reacts to visible and UV light.

Word of warning - make sure you can see properly in UV and visible light

Photochromic lenses that only react to UV light won’t work for driving as windscreens already filter out this kind of light. That means that your lenses would be too light for driving on a sunny day.

Make sure you choose a pair with lenses that react to both UV and visible light and will adapt to any changes in light conditions as you drive.

Fixed tint lenses

As their name suggests, fixed tint lenses retain the same level of darkness, regardless of how light or dark it is outside.

Polarised sunglasses for driving

Polarised sunglasses can be a good choice for driving as they help to reduce glare, which could come in useful with light that’s reflected off wet roads.

What about tint density?

Different lenses will have different tint densities, so make sure you pick ones that are suitable for driving.

Category 0 lenses, which emit 80-100% of light, are suitable for use indoors, on overcast days, and for driving.

Category 1, 2 or 3 lenses, which emit between 43-80%, 18-43% and 8-18% of light respectively, aren’t suitable for driving at night.

Category 4 lenses, which only emit 3-8% of light, should never be used for any driving, during day or night.

If you’re still not sure which sunglasses to choose, visit your local opticians. They’ll be able to provide expert advice and help you choose the best colour sunglasses for driving too.

Top Tips

• Remember that your everyday sunglasses might not be suitable for driving
• Always carry a spare pair of driving sunglasses in your car
• Book an eye test every two years to check whether you need to invest in prescription sunglasses for driving