Sunlight generally harmlessly scatters in all directions, but when it hits flat surfaces, the reflected light often becomes polarized — meaning it travels in a more uniform (usually horizontal) direction. This is referred to as horizontally polarized light, and it creates potentially dangerous reflections that obscure your vision with bright glare and reduces general visibility.

Polarized sunglasses have a special filter that blocks this type of intense reflected light, reducing glare, discomfort and general eye strain. This filter makes them perfect for water sports, snow sports, and general day to day use.