How to choose the right pair for flying?

[Mill City]

I would love to choose a pair of sunglasses for flying for my older brother. So my friends recommend polarized sunglasses. However, someone said polarized sunglasses is not good for flying?

[Paul Spur]

Actually, sunglasses are very important protective devices for pilots. They can reduce visual fatigue, thereby reducing the possibility of pilot error. A good pair of sunglasses can also protect the eyes and vision from UV radiation too. However, there are many available varieties of sunglasses such as polarized sunglasses. Polarized lenses eliminated reflected glare from a flat surface. However, looking though a laminated aircraft windscreen, while wearing polarized lenses can result in reduced retinal image. Also, some windscreen of the aircraft is already polarized, hence polarized sunglasses result in double polarization. Polarized lenses are not recommended for use in the aviation environment. While useful for blocking reflected light from horizontal surfaces such as water or snow, polarization can reduce or eliminate the visibility of instruments that incorporate anti-glare filters. Polarized lenses may also interfere with visibility through an aircraft windscreen by enhancing striations in laminated materials and mask the sparkle of light that reflects off shiny surfaces such as another aircraft's wing or windscreen, which can reduce the time a pilot has to react in a "see-and-avoid" traffic situation. So, for the above reasons, non polarized sunglasses are best for pilot. Hope this helpful.

[Mill Creek]

There are many types of sunglasses available, but no single type is ideal for every pilot. Needs change based on age, light sensitivity, ambient lighting conditions and type of flying. Some sunglasses are not right for any pilot at any time. Valid reasons for wearing sunglasses in the aviation environment include improved night vision adaptation, enhanced contrast in the visual field, reduced glare, decreased UV exposure and avoidance of eye fatigue. Though style and appearance may be a consideration, the safety conscious pilot should focus on the proper selection of lens features rather than frame styles with cheap lenses. Visual acuity varies with the light available and the sensitivity of an individual to various degrees of brightness. The pupil controls the amount of light reaching the retina. Older individual's eyes do not transmit as much light through the eye as younger people do. Therefore, many older individuals need more light for optimum acuity. They may want to use sunglasses that transmit more light. On high glare days, such as over snow or sand, the pupils contract to protect the eye from the glare. Sunglasses will reduce glare and allow the pupil to let more light on to the retina, thus enhancing vision. So, you need to make sure in which aviation condition the sunglasses used for. Then you can choose a right pair for flying.