When searching for UV400 sunglasses, polarized sunglasses, or sun protection like SPF 50+, it’s important to understand what these terms actually mean. While they are often mentioned together, they protect different parts of your body in different ways.
This guide explains UV400 protection, SPF 50+, and polarized lenses, and why choosing the right sunglasses matters, especially in strong sunlight like New Zealand.
⸻
What Is UV400 Protection in Sunglasses?
UV400 is a protection rating used for sunglasses and eyewear.
Sunglasses labeled UV400 block 100% of harmful ultraviolet rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers, including UVA and UVB rays.
Why UV400 sunglasses are important:
• UVA and UVB rays can damage your eyes even on cloudy days
• Long-term UV exposure may lead to eye strain, cataracts, and eye aging
• UV400 lenses provide essential eye protection in high-UV environments
New Zealand has some of the highest UV levels in the world, making UV400 sunglasses a must-have for daily outdoor use.
⸻
What Does SPF 50+ Mean in Sun Protection?
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is a rating used for sunscreen, not sunglasses.
SPF 50+ means the sunscreen blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn and skin damage.
Important things to know about SPF 50+:
• SPF protects your skin, not your eyes
• Higher SPF means longer protection, not total UV blockage
• SPF sunscreen should be used together with UV400 sunglasses for full sun protection
⸻
What Are Polarized Sunglasses?
Polarized sunglasses are designed to reduce glare caused by reflected light from flat surfaces such as water, roads, sand, and snow.
Glare can reduce visibility and cause eye fatigue, especially when driving, cycling, fishing, or spending long hours outdoors.
Polarized lenses work by filtering out horizontal light waves, resulting in:
• Reduced glare
• Clearer and sharper vision
• Improved contrast and color clarity
• Less eye strain in bright conditions
For activities like driving and outdoor sports, polarized sunglasses provide a noticeable improvement in visual comfort.
⸻
UV400 vs Polarized Sunglasses: What’s the Difference?
This is a common search question.
• UV400 sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV radiation
• Polarized sunglasses reduce glare and improve visual clarity
They serve different purposes, and the best sunglasses combine both UV400 protection and polarized lenses.
⸻
Why Choose URBA VISTA Polarized UV400 Sunglasses?
URBA VISTA sunglasses are designed in New Zealand, where strong sunlight demands reliable eye protection.
Our polarized UV400 sunglasses offer:
• 100% UV400 eye protection
• Polarized lenses to reduce glare
• Comfortable vision for everyday wear, driving, and outdoor activities
• Modern, unisex styles suitable for city and lifestyle use
Whether you’re looking for polarized sunglasses in New Zealand or reliable UV400 eye protection, URBA VISTA is designed to help you see clearly and comfortably.
