FAQ

UV

One of the many consequences of an ever-thinning ozone
layer, is increased levels ultraviolet (UV) light, WHICH IS [scientifically
known as] electromagnetic radiation, and resulting vision health issues.

What does ultraviolet (UV) mean?

Ultraviolet is simply one type of energy that is emitted from the sun. Back in our school days we learned about light and the electromagnetic spectrum. The ultraviolet rays are simply a component of that spectrum. Other rays that are emitted include microwaves and visible light.

Why can't we see UV rays?

The only rays of the spectrum we see are visible light. Our eyes simply cannot detect the other rays due to their frequency. However, just because we cannot see them does not mean we cannot feel or sense them.

Why is UV protection important?

We are surrounded by UV radiation all the time. The quantity depends on the conditions outside such as direct sun and the clouds. UV rays can be reflected.

What is a nanometer?

A nanometer is simply a unit of measurement. It is equal to one-millionth of a millimeter. Light rays move with a wavelength small enough that this is the most applicable way of measuring them.

Why do we need UV protection for eyes?

The supposed depletion of the earth's ozone layer has made the need for protection from any of the sun's rays important. It is believed, but not proven, that ultraviolet rays cause photokeratitis, which is cancer of the eye.

What does UVA, UVB, and UVC mean?

This is a further breakdown of ultraviolet rays within their component of the electromagnetic spectrum. Ultraviolet rays travel with a wavelength of 10 to 400nm. UVA has a wavelength of 320 to 400 nm and causes sunburning. UVB travels in the range of 280 to 320 nm and causes sunburn and kills bacteria. UVC is from 100 to 280 nm and is usually filtered out by the ozone layer. OUR SUNGLASSES HAVE PROTECTION UP TO 400nm SO THEY COVER THE ENTIRE RANGE OF ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION.

What does UV400 mean?

This is an optical industry standard. It means that the lenses are made to protect your eyes against UV rays up to a 400 nanometers in wavelength.

How do my lenses protect my eyes from UV rays?

blockquote>A special clear coating is applied to the lenses. This is either on the front or back of the lens, or sometimes both. Obviously this is a transparent coating and can be applied to any color of lens including clear.

With UV levels expected to be six to ten percent greater than previously established norms across Canada, here’s what you need to know about UV light:

  • The A-B-C’s of UV - Present in sunlight, ultraviolet irradiation is an environmental human carcinogen. The three bands of UV light are UV-A, UV-B and UV-C.
  • UV-A - Although UV-A is the weakest form of ultraviolet light, it ages our body’s cells, clouds the eye cells (contributes to cataracts), and advances age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), which is a leading cause of vision loss and legal blindness among Canadians greater than 60 years of age.
  • UV-B - This spectrum is the most damaging form of radiation and is a cause of skin cancer. It is mostly absorbed by the eye’s cornea (the transparent layer at the front of the eye). Short term exposure to UV-B can cause a sunburn of the cornea. UV-B radiation is increased more than one percent for every one percent decrease in the earth’s ozone layer.
  • UV-C - Normally UV-C is absorbed in the ozone layer, however thinning ozone and penetrating UV-C has an undetermined effect on vision. If man-made sources of UV-C, (e.g. generated by electric welding arcs) are any indication, this form of light definitely requires protection to prevent vision harm.
  • Day light demands vision protection, regardless if it is sunny or not. Unfortunately clouds do not adequately filter out harmful radiation and so sunglasses should be used whenever you are outdoors. Be “UV aware” and realize that radiation is intensified if you have:
    • fair skin and light colored eyes;
    • a family history of retinal degeneration
    • mid-day exposure - particularly between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM
    • exposure to reflective surfaces e.g. water and snow
    • high altitude exposure
    • medication sensitivity; check with your optometrist, pharmacist or physician to determine if your medications result in increased UV sensitivity
    • Sundog Distributing supports UV Awareness for all Canadians.

FRAMES

Nickel Silver

A frame of this material is very durable and resistant to breakage. It is also resistant to oxidation and much more durable than hardened brass which is a common frame material in lower priced frames.

Nylon

Peeks Nylon frames are made from Virgin Nylon. This means they are made of first cut nylon that has not been previously recycled. This makes the frames more flexible and more comfortable to wear, as they are more prone to adjust to the contours of a wearer's head.

Adjustable Nose Pads

These lightweight pads adjust to the contours of the nose increasing comfort and making them easier to wear for long periods.

Hydrophilic Nose Pads and Temple Tips

Hydrophilic rubber stick to your skin preventing slipping. They ensure your glasses stay in place making them a good choice for sports.

 

LENSES

Decentred lenses

All lenses have an 'optical center' in the precise center of the lens. De-centred lenses have the optical center not in the exact middle of the lens, but it has been moved such that better vision is a result.

Polarized lenses

Polarized sunglasses are the most effective sunglasses at reducing glare from the sun. In general most outdoor enthusiasts find polarized sunglasses the best for their pursuits for this reason.

When sunlight is reflected off an object it creates horizontally polarized light waves. Conversely, polarized sunglasses use vertically oriented filters in the lenses. The combination of the two effectively neutralizes one another and thus you get glare reduction from the lenses.

Polycarbonate Lenses

Polycarbonate lenses are one of the thinnest and lightest lenses presently available.

These impact resistant lenses are very popular for individuals who participate in high impact sports such as snowboarding and mountain biking.

Driving Lenses

These lenses are specifically designed for driving. They eliminate glare, increase contrast and reducing eye fatigue making driving safer and more pleasurable.

Lens Color Information

Light Brown - Low light transmission. Improves contrast, reduces glare and preserves depth perception.
RVO Blue Mirror - Mirror coating reduces light transmission. Reduces glare and improves contrast. Excellent for bright light.
Amber - Low light transmission. Increases contrast and preserves color perception. Good for all light conditions. Excellent on the greens.
Smoke - Low light transmission. Preserves natural colors, reduces glare and sharpens focus. Great for bright light conditions.
G15 Green - Low light transmission. Relieves glare and increases contrast. Great for bright light conditions.
Brown - Low light transmission. Increases contrast, sharpens visual acuity and enhances depth perception. Ideal in bright sun or overcast conditions.
RVO Red Mirror - Mirror coating reduces light transmission. Increases contrast, eliminates glare and enhances depth perception.
K30 - Low light transmission. Increases contrast, preserves sharpness and reduces glare. Great for bright light conditions.