Sunglasses for Winter Protection

Many people put their sunglasses away when summer ends, not realizing that UV radiation does not take a winter break. In fact, certain winter conditions can make UV exposure to your eyes even more intense than on a typical summer day.

At Upper West Optical, we help patients choose eyewear that protects their vision throughout every season, including the cold winter months here in New York City.

Why Winter UV Exposure Is a Real Risk

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Snow Reflects UV

Fresh snow can reflect up to 80 percent of UV radiation, essentially doubling your exposure compared to being on a surface that absorbs light, like grass or pavement.

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Low Sun Angle

In winter, the sun sits lower in the sky, which means its rays strike your eyes at a more direct angle rather than from above, increasing the amount of UV entering the eye.

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UV Passes Through Clouds

Up to 90 percent of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover. Overcast winter days can still deliver significant UV exposure to unprotected eyes without any visible glare as a warning.

Winter Eye Hazards Beyond UV

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Cold Wind and Dry Air

Winter air is naturally drier, and cold winds accelerate tear evaporation from the eye surface, leading to irritation, redness, and dry eye symptoms that worsen outdoors.

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Snow Glare

Intense glare off snow-covered surfaces causes squinting and eye strain, and can temporarily impair vision in a condition sometimes called snow blindness or photokeratitis.

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Outdoor Winter Sports

Skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities at higher elevations expose the eyes to significantly stronger UV radiation due to thinner atmosphere at altitude.

      What to Look for in Winter Sunglasses
      100% UVA and UVB protection regardless of lens tint
Polarized lenses to cut glare from snow and ice
Wraparound frames for full peripheral coverage in wind
Anti-reflective coatings to reduce internal lens glare
Photochromic lenses that adapt to changing light conditions
Prescription options if you require corrective lenses

    

Best Lens Options for Winter Conditions

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Polarized Lenses

Polarized lenses are especially valuable in winter because they dramatically reduce horizontal glare reflecting off snow, ice, and wet roads, improving both comfort and safety.

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Photochromic Lenses

These lenses automatically darken in bright conditions and lighten indoors, making them ideal for variable winter days where light levels shift frequently throughout the day.

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Prescription Sunglasses

If you wear corrective lenses, prescription sunglasses allow you to see clearly while staying protected, eliminating the need to choose between vision and UV safety outdoors.

Year-Round Eye Protection Starts Here

At Upper West Optical, we carry a wide selection of sunglasses suited to every season, lifestyle, and prescription need. Our team can help you find lenses and frames that offer genuine UV protection without compromising on style or comfort.

Whether you are commuting through snowy New York streets or heading to the mountains for the weekend, the right eyewear makes a measurable difference in how well your eyes are protected all winter long.