Why it’s important to wear sunglasses when driving

Wearing sunglasses when driving is important all year round. Whilst winter glare can be severe due to the low sun reflecting off surfaces in the early morning and evening, over the summer months, the sun tends to sit at a higher angle in the sky. This means sun glare during summer tends to be worse mid-morning and mid-afternoon as the sun sits higher in the sky, especially at specific angles on curved roads or near reflective surfaces like water or shiny cars. This can cause issues with visibility, making it difficult to read signs and see hazards on the road. With constant squinting, sun glare can impact comfort levels due to the muscle tension around the eyes and forehead, which can sometimes lead to headaches. Having appropriate eye protection during long drives can help to reduce these symptoms. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of wearing sunglasses when driving in the summer, your lens options and style tips.

Polarised sunglasses for driving

Polarised lenses can help reduce sun glare from reflective surfaces like wet roads, water and car bonnets, which make them a great choice for long drives and coastal trips, especially in sunny conditions after rain. Since they also help to improve visual clarity by enhancing colour perception on the road, polarised sunglasses can help to reduce eye fatigue on long journeys when driving in bright conditions. They’re also a convenient option to keep on if you’re driving to play outdoor sport like running near water, fishing, road cycling, or beach games. Read more about sunglasses for summer sport.

UV (ultraviolet) protection

Whilst UV exposure from modern windscreens is minimal, UV can still reach your eyes from the sides and reflections. So wearing sunglasses adds an extra layer of protection while keeping your vision more comfortable, as well as help protect your eyes against long-term conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Read more about the importance of UV protection.

Comfortable frames

Comfortable sunglasses when driving is non-negotiable. The better the comfort levels, the more likely you are to wear your sunglasses for longer periods of time. Frame design and fit can play a key role in ensuring your sunglasses are comfortable which is especially important when driving long distances.

When choosing sunglasses for driving, it’s worth prioritising lightweight, well-balanced designs that stay comfortable over longer journeys. Features like adjustable nose pads and softly textured grips can help keep your sunglasses securely in place, even during warm weather or extended time behind the wheel. Flexible frames can also add to overall comfort, reducing pressure on your face and helping you stay focused on the road ahead.

Lightweight materials are especially useful for minimising distractions, as they reduce the feeling of heaviness around your nose and ears. You might also consider brands such as Nike, Puma, and Oakley, which offer durable frames that work just as well for driving as they do for outdoor activities - making them a convenient option if you’re heading out for a hike, run, or day at the beach without needing to switch your sunglasses.

It's also useful to remember that sunglasses should sit comfortably without sliding, pinch points, or blocking your peripheral vision, especially when turning your head while driving.

Grey lenses

If you are driving through scenic routes in the summer and you want to take in your surroundings, grey lenses can help to reduce glare and brightness without altering natural colours. This is important for safety too, as it can help you to identify traffic lights and brake lights, particularly around cities.

Brown / amber lenses

If you’re planning to drive through rural routes, winding roads or long motorways, brown or amber lenses can help to improve contrast on the road on bright, sunny days. This makes it easier to spot subtle changes in the road surface such as potholes, gravel or uneven tarmac where sunlight can make details harder to see.

Green lenses

If you’re looking for a versatile pair of sunglasses that offer balanced contrast and brightness control, then green lenses might be for you. They can help to preserve natural colour perception whilst enhancing visual sharpness without overly darkening your view, making them useful on summer road trips for both cities and scenic rural routes.

Prescription sunglasses provide vision correction, 100% UV protection and improved comfort in bright summer conditions without the need to switch between your glasses and sunglasses. This makes long road trips less tiring and safer. Whether you’re sensitive to light or simply looking for a stylish pair of prescription sunglasses, we offer a wide range of options to suit your needs. Visit our lens guide.

If you want to be comfortable and look stylish behind the wheel in the summer, it’s important to balance face shape and style with your visual needs.

Look for frames that complement your face shape by getting helpful tips and advice on how to choose frames for your face shape, as well as provide reliable coverage in the sunlight. When it comes to style, opt for a pair that feels natural for everyday wear so you can rely on them for regular summer driving, whether you’re commuting or heading out on longer adventures and choose frames that also complement your summer outfits for a cohesive, effortless look.

Sunglasses are essential for summer driving, but they can easily be affected by daily use in and out of the car. To keep them at their best, regular cleaning and careful maintenance are key in helping to maintain clear vision, reduce glare, and extend their lifespan so they’re always ready for bright driving conditions. Here are some top tips on caring for your eyewear.

Try to avoid leaving your sunglasses on the car dashboard, where direct sunlight and heat can cause damage such as lens distortion or frame discolouration – find out why you should avoid leaving your sunglasses in the car and what to do instead here. It’s also important to protect them from common issues like smudges and scratches, which can build up through everyday handling, especially when you’re on the move. You can find top tips on keeping your lenses scratch and smudge free here. If you’re heading off on a summer trip, exposure to sand, saltwater, and humidity can also take its toll, so taking a few simple precautions will help keep your sunglasses in great condition all season long.

Find the perfect driving sunglasses at Boots Opticians, with a wide selection of designer styles and prescription options to suit your needs. You can also book an eye test to make sure your vision is at its best - helping you stay safe, comfortable, and confident on every journey this summer.