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As the clocks go back by an hour this week, the British motoring association, The AA (Automobile Association), is reminding drivers of one simple thing - keep a pair of sunglasses in the car. Yes, good driving sunglasses can protect you from accidents while driving. It might sound odd in autumn-winter, but the low winter sun can turn a routine commute into a dangerous drive. In fact, new figures for 2022-2024 show crashes alarmingly jump by 11% in the three weeks following the end of British Summer Time (BST) and the glare from wet roads is often to blame. So, this is the right time to invest in the best sunglasses for driving.

Why You Need Sunglasses for Winter

Most of you might connect sunglasses with summer and consider them a summer accessory. It might seem odd to think about sunglasses in winter, but experts warn that winter sun can be just as dangerous as bright summer light. The sun at this time of year, when the days are shorter and the temperatures drop, sunglasses for winter are more than a fashion choice; they are a safety essential. It’s high time to know the incredible benefits of sunglasses in winter.

Protection from UV Rays

Exposure to UV rays directly from the sun can seriously damage your eyes. If you think that you are safe from UV rays in winter, you’re wrong. UV rays actually work year-round and winter is not an exception. That’s why it’s important to wear sunglasses every day you’re outdoors, no matter how strong or weak the sunlight appears.

Reducing Glare

Sunlight reflected from surfaces like water, snow, wet roads or even car hoods can blind you or impact your vision. Polarised sunglasses or anti-glare sunglasses are specially designed to protect you from reflections and glare. By reducing the intensity of reflected light, these sunglasses make driving safer and more comfortable, especially on bright winter days.

Prevent Snow Blindness

Winter may bring beautiful snowy landscapes, but it also increases the risk of snow blindness. It's a painful condition caused by overexposure to sunlight reflected off snow and ice. Even on cloudy days, snowy scenes all around can distract your vision with their extra whitish nature, making protective sunglasses for winter essential. By preventing snow blindness, the right pair of sunglasses not only protects your eyes but also makes driving and winter activities far more comfortable.

Reduce Eye Strain

Wearing sunglasses gives your eyes a rest from constant exposure to natural and artificial light. This helps reduce eye strain, which can lead to redness, fatigue, or headaches, not just in winter but at any time of year.

Tips for Safer Driving in Autumn-Winter

1. Keep a pair of anti-glare sunglasses in your car – Glove boxes and door pockets are perfect storage spots. Having good polarised sunglasses ready can help cut glare instantly.

2. Double your following distance – The AA advises drivers to double the gap between vehicles after the time change, leaving a four-second gap to give more reaction time in darker or glare-affected conditions.

3. Clean your windscreen regularly – Dirt, smudges and condensation can amplify glare.

4. Check your lights and tyres – Make sure your car is ready for longer nights and unpredictable weather.

Sunglasses Aren’t Just for Summer

The idea that sunglasses are only for summer holidays is outdated. Sunglasses in winter are becoming increasingly important, especially with unpredictable UK weather patterns and more extreme glare from wet or icy roads. Whether you call them winter sunglasses, sunglasses for winter, or just your everyday driving shades, keeping a pair handy can help you see and stop in time.

Before you set off into winter chill, double-check your car lights, give your windscreen a quick clean and grab your sunglasses. Sometimes the simplest precaution can make the most significant difference on the road. 

Choose the Best Sunglasses for Driving

When picking the best sunglasses for driving, go for lenses that reduce glare without overly darkening your view. Polarised lenses are particularly good at cutting reflections from wet surfaces, while lenses with blue, brown, grey or amber tints maintain colour balance for better visibility. Also, avoid overly dark lenses (category 4), which are not suitable for driving. Instead, look for sunglasses labelled as category 2 or 3, which are ideal for day-to-day use behind the wheel.

If you're wondering where to buy sunglasses suited for driving, our sunglassesforsport.com and sunwiseeyewear.com offer a wide selection, including options specifically designed for winter sun and low light conditions. Stay safe this winter.