From the monthly archives:

December 2010

  

Glare: light moving in the horizontal plane

The Christmas season also means we’re experiencing the shortest days of the year. Now, when you’re driving, the sun appears lower in the horizon. Not only does that mean light can go directly into your eye, but glare is potentially still a problem.  

Glare happens when light bounces off a flat surface and starts travelling in the horizontal direction. The flat surface could be a pavement, road, a wet surface or even ice. Light that’s travelling vertically is useful to the eye. But light in the horizontal plane is just the opposite, annoying and potentially stressful for the eyes. This YouTube video does a good job of explaining polarization in everyday terms. Generally, glare also makes us squint – which can impair our vision even further.  

Science is definitely on our side. Recent research demonstrates that glare has an impact on stopping distances. Essentially, glare can impair your ability to react. And, we all know the more quickly you can react to a situation, the better off you’ll be.  

For safety and comfort, polarized sunglasses make a difference. Don’t forget your sunglasses even when you think there’s no possibility of sunshine.

{ 0 comments }

With optic and motion censors, Reflex from Cateye are a great choice

Reflex with sensors from Cateye

Cycling safety is an important topic here at Polaroid Sunglasses. During the day, our polarized sunglasses cut glare so you can see the road ahead more clearly. Our cycling sunglasses also offer protection from the wind. But, at night, road safety takes on a very different complexion. It’s not just about seeing, it’s about being seen by drivers, other cyclists and pedestrians. According to the CTC, the UK’s National Cyclists’ organisation, both front and rear lights are required after sunset or in conditions like fog or rain that impair visibility. The front lamp must be white, and the rear one must be red. Rear and pedal reflectors are also required. With winter cyclists in mind, here’s our list of fully approved cycle lights to help you stay safe this winter.

Rechargeable lights – A good choice for commuter and road riders, these lights are an investment, but that a good thing. Evan’s has a wide range in stock. And, with their reviewing system, you can see what other customers think of the products.

Battery Lights – A solid and cost-effective option. Again, Evan’s offers a wide selection at different prices for both front and rear lamps. Some models have LED technology for longer lasting battery power. The Cycle Store also has a good selection. Or, visit CatEye for more information on specific products.

The Green Option – The Cycle Store carries Reelight – a set of both front and rear lights that are powered by magnets attached to the spokes of your bicycle. When you’re pedaling the light stays on – and for several minutes after you’ve stopped.

Make sure any light you put on your bike meets all British and European Union standards.

{ 0 comments }

Sunglasses and scarves

John Lewis has some of the season's best scarves

Scarves. Mufflers. Wool. Silk. Cotton. Cashmere. When it comes to neckwear for men, there’s plenty of choice. Men’s fashion this winter is all about the details. Getting the right hat, the right shoes and a good-looking scarf can be the difference between being a trend setter and just…well…being. So, without further ado, Polaroid will introduce you to some of the best men’s scarves around –  while there’s still time to shop for that last-minute, make-or-break Christmas present. And, speaking of presents, Polaroid Sunglasses has some of its top selling sunglasses on sale now.  Winter just gets better and better.

The traditionalist –  Check out Joe Casely-Hayford for John Lewis. This season, there’s  a wonderful check scarf  in warm winter tones made from a cashmere and wool blend. It’s the sort of scarf that would look great paired with a leather jacket and just as good with a mac when you’re running to the office. Read more…

{ 0 comments }

Don't forget your sunglasses even in winter

It’s December. And while everyone else is Christmas shopping and eating mince pies,  I’m competing in the winter league. Then, I eat the mince pies – and miss the opportunity to go shopping with my Christmas-obsessed wife.  Yesterday I had a great game. The course was hilly and the day mild. But, the wind still comes up even when the weather is good. I kept my golfing sunglasses on most of the time. By 2:00 the sun was so low in the sky, that I really needed them. Winter sun isn’t nearly so weak as we think. But what really made a difference was the protection I had from the wind. I could see that the other team and even my own partner were having trouble keeping their eyes fully open.

This year, I tried the new lavender lenses from Polaroid’s range for golfers. And I have to say they really help. I’m not much of a style guru and at first I found the colour a little…well…different. But now I’m a convert because I can see my ball out so much more quickly and easily – even in the rough. I also think the large lenses really help. I have full protection from the wind and the sunglasses are so light I forget I’m wearing them.

If you’re golfing this winter, don’t forget your sunglasses. They can really help make the round a lot more comfortable.

{ 0 comments }

In March 2011, Polaroid Eyewear is launching its much anticipated heritage collection, “Best under the sun”. This collection sees Polaroid, as pioneer of premium polarizing lenses and highly fashionable sunglasses since 1937, take ten out of its best ever models from the ‘30s to the ‘80s, and reproduce them in careful detail.

Last month, designers and opticians in the Netherlands were treated to a unique preview of the “Best under the sun collection at the event, Fete de la Vue. Models were wearing glasses from the collection, and were dressed in attire to match each era.

Here’s 1950s Marilyn and you can check out other styles in the gallery.

Read more…

{ 1 comment }

December 7, 2010

Driving when it’s icy – Polaroid Sunglasses’ top tips

It’s cold outside. Parts of the UK are experiencing record snow falls… again. And, the freezing temperatures everywhere mean that driving can be hazardous. Ice is no friend to any car or driver. But Polaroid Sunglasses can make a difference. Polarized lenses block glare making it easier to see when sunlight is reflected off an icy [...]

Read more...
December 2, 2010

3D Glasses and new sunglasses collection launched in Cannes – view the videos

The 2011 Polaroid sunglasses collection was very well received at the Tax Free World Association Exhibition in Cannes that we recently attended. It was particularly exciting to see the interest from retailers and airlines in the Asia/Pacific region, and it was great to show our duty-free clients our new range of 3D Glasses and Suncovers. [...]

Read more...