What is UV and why is protection important?

As much as we all love the sunshine, every day we are becoming more aware of its potentially harmful effects; and a great deal of confusion has emerged about how well sunglasses protect you from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

UV radiation, the source of that painful sunburn is invisible light at the 'shorter' end of the light spectrum. Exposure to invisible ultraviolet light can cause serious damage to your eyes. There are fourteen known eye disorders that can be caused by it.

The darkness or tint of the lens has no bearing on its effectiveness in blocking UV rays. The tint is there solely to block visible light. It is special chemicals, added when the lenses are being made, that ensure full protection against UV.

Considering that UV rays pose a threat to the lens, retina and cornea, protection is needed for your eyes year-round.

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What is the difference between UVA & UVB radiation?

UV radiation is composed of three subsections: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

UVA rays were previously thought to be fairly harmless. Scientific opinion has changed recently, with some experts feeling that prolonged exposure can lead to cataracts, a very serious, sometimes blinding eye disease. Now proper eye protection is considered a must for all ranges of ultraviolet light.

UVB rays are the sun's tanning rays, or if you overdo it the sun's burning rays. Lack of protection can cause keratistis (snowblindness), conjunctivitis, irritation of the cornea, or even severe lesions on the retina. While your eyes can recover from these afflictions, you do well to protect yourself from them

UVC rays get little publicity, as few actually reach the earth's surface and virtually any sunglasses would take care of those that do. But with the continual depletion of the ozone layer, we may hear more about this range of UV.

Unless you wear sunglasses, you may not be providing your eyes with sufficient protection.

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What about Kids?

Kids need protection too! Kid's delicate eyes need sun protection even more than adults do. Most UV damage occurs before the age of 20.

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For more information please visit the following websites:

Environment Canada UV Indices issued twice daily:
http://weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/forecast/textforecast_e.html?Bulletin=fpcn48.cwao

Canadian Opthalmological Society:
http://eyesite.ca/english/public-information/eye-facts/index.htm

How are Suntech Optics sunglass frames manufactured?

All Suntech Optics sunglasses are manufactured from finished materials that are non-toxic, non-irritating and not capable of producing allergic reactions to a significant degree under normal conditions of use.

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What are the various types of frame features available in Suntech Optics sunglasses?

Spring Hinges:

Quickly adjusts and lock temples into a comfortable position

Non-slip nose pads:

A specialized rubber that is inserted into the nose section of the glass which creates a non-slip grip and keeps sunglasses in place during athletic activity
Provides a soft feel and custom fit.

Non-slip ear grips:

A specialized rubber that is inserted into the temple tips of the glass.
Creates a non-slip grip that keeps sunglasses in place during athletic activity
Provides a soft feel and custom fit.

Rocking nose pads:

Lightweight nose pads to adjust to the contour of your nose
Increases comfort and easier to wear for long periods of time

Ventilation/Air flow:

Strategically located air vents placed either at the top or bottom of the lens to direct air in and then straight out again
Provides constant airflow, which virtually eliminates fog and condensation.
Allows maximum ventilation while blocking incoming light

Backspray:

Design treatment where a crystal frame is applied with colour on the back to improve cosmetic appearance.
Gives crystal coloured frame depth and sheen

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How should sunglasses fit?

Frames should fit comfortably and allow the lens to be positioned directly in front of the eye for maximum UV protection.

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