Comfortable and hard on glare
Sometimes it seems like summer is a million years away. Literally. But, that doesn’t mean you can relax when it comes to eye protection. Winter sun is lower in the sky, so it’s more likely to shine directly in your eyes when you’re driving. And, that means that having sunglasses, Clip-Ons or Suncovers on hand in the car is a must.
But there’s more. Glare is light moving in the horizontal plane – and it happens when light bounces off a flat surface like a road, a pavement or even the bonnet of a car. It’s uncomfortable, unpleasant and can impair your vision. Glare doesn’t just happen in bright sunlight – it can happen on days that are grim and grey as well. There’s research showing that glare can slow down the time it takes to stop your car. So be safe in low light and keep sun protection in your glove box.
Gliffaes Hotel - a great weekend destination
Today, it’s back to work or school for people up and down the country. Some of us will greet the future with well-rested good cheer. The rest of us will be…well, a little less optimistic. But whatever your mood, January and February can be long months with little reward – and, seemingly, even less to look forward to. Definitely the perfect time to plan a short break as a pick-me-up or even a reward for that long-planned Christmas detox. But, before you go, don’t forget to pack some sunglasses or even a pair of our suncovers – perfect for driving longer distances.
Put some Champagne in your step - Arblaster & Clarke offer an opportunity to taste at least twenty different champagnes over a wonderful weekend in March. From the famous houses to smaller players, you’ll return to Britain with the kind of sophisticated knowledge that is sure to impress your envious friends. And, the tour is flexible enough that you can enjoy your evening meals alone or in the company of a larger party.
Book a Highland romance -The Ayrds Hotel & Restaurant offer a romantic mid-week break from February 13th-15th that will help you celebrate Valentine’s Day in style. Curl up by the fire, go for a walk or see if there’s a boat that can take you out on Loch Etire. Even in the winter months, this part of Scotland is breathtaking.
See something of Wales – There are hotels and hotels. The Gliffaes Hotel in South Wales is one of the later. Located just 10 miles from Brecon, it offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a winter walk in the Black Mountains. Or, you could visit Tintern Abbey. If you’re planning a spring weekend, there’s also trout fishing to consider. The hotel itself offers wonderful rooms and equally good dining. Closed until January 28th, this is a popular destination so book ahead.
A bit of planning could be the answer to the January blues – and keep you away from yet another mince pie.
Let's hope for lighter snow
Who knew that we’d be expecting snow before we’ve even finished our Christmas shopping?
Apparently, Scotland and Yorkshire have already seen snow this November – and now even Southern England is anticipating some of the white stuff before the week is out. The key to staying safe when you’re driving in bad weather is a little bit of preparation and a lot of calm. Unless your journey is essential, you may find staying at home the best idea of all. When it’s icy, your tyres won’t grip as well as they do when the road it dry and clear. Nothing you do can alter that one simple fact. But, if you must go out, here are our top tips for driving when the weather turns snowy:
- Listen to the local radio before you leave and while you’re driving. Not every road is gritted and road closures can happen without warning.
- Clear your entire windscreen- and no cheating. You must be able to see the road ahead. Make sure you leave enough time to de-ice, scrape and turn on your heating. Please don’t forget the back windscreen either.
- Use a broom to bush any accumulated snow off the bonnet and roof of your car. It’s common sense really. Having snow blow right into you windscreen as soon as you’ve backed out of the drive will impair your visibility.
- Clean your lights and your number plate.
- Be able to use your mirrors. Keep a handy de-misting pad within reach.
- Keep your distance. In poor conditions, it takes longer to stop. Two second between cars isn’t nearly enough.
- Slow down. Sudden movements can cause your vehicle to skid. Accelerate gradually and use the same caution when you’re braking.
- Slow down gradually when you need to turn. This will limit the chances of skidding.
This is only for starters, the AA offers detailed guidelines that you may want to have a look at. Also, you can check out the Met Office for nation-wide weather information and warnings.
And don’t forget that when the storm is over, snow on the road can dazzle your eyes. You’ll want to keep a pair of Polaroid driving sunglasses or clip-ons close at hand.
Tate shows us how Polaroid Clip-ons really work
Our friend Tate at the Spectacles Blog is a big fan of Polaroid Sunglasses and polarization. And, we like him too… When it comes to reporting on the amazing world of optics, sunglasses and good old-fashioned specs, Tate is the man. We recently sent him some of our flip-up Clip-ons to take for a test spin. They’re perfect for wearing over prescription glasses, and they’re small enought to take with you anywhere.
But you don’t have to take our word for it, find out what Tate has to say about them.
Why not plan ahead and get some to take on holiday!
Is Florida on you calendar? Antigua? Australia? Mexico? Or are you off to sunny spot at the seaside for a bit of winter walking? Wherever you’re headed, don’t forget to pack a pair of sunglasses – or, if you plan on wearing your prescription glasses, our new range of suncovers could be exactly what you need. Not only will they protect your eyes from dangerous ultraviolet rays, they’ll give you the style and comfort you need whether you’re sitting on a beach, driving or just getting out and about. For people who switch between contacts and prescription glasses, a pair of Polaroid Suncovers will ensure you never have to squint because you’ve decided to wear your glasses.
Read more…
