Whether you’ve been gardening for quite some time or only recently, you will know that exposure to sunlight is a crucial factor for growing and maintaining plants.
For instance, a houseplant like the starfish snake plant is generally kept in low-lit, indoor settings, it can also be moved outdoors in the summertime. However, the transition must be slow and gradual, as too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves or cause them to droop.
Interestingly, the same principle applies to us human beings. Although sunlight can be beneficial for bodily functions like vitamin D production and bone health, too much of it can also be damaging.
Fortunately, wearing sunglasses can help shield the eyes from sunlight, amongst other protective benefits, as this article will cover.
Why you need sunglasses for gardening
As previously mentioned, gardening may have its own physical and mental health benefits, but prolonged sun exposure while gardening can also be harmful.
Specifically, ultraviolet radiation from the sun can damage the eye’s structure, such as the cornea and retina, and increase the risk of ocular conditions like cataract formation and macular degeneration. Sunglasses can thus serve as a protective shield against UV damage
and maintain overall eye health.
Additionally, the most common gardening hazards, such as thorns, splinters, and power tools, can lead to eye injuries, ranging from minor cuts to puncture wounds.
So, it helps to wear tough and durable sunglasses to keep debris away from the eye when pruning unruly bushes or handling sharp tools like trimmers, tillers, and shears.
Considering sunglasses can keep the eyes safe from the sun and physical hazards, the following section guides you through choosing a pair that works for you.
How to choose gardening-friendly sunglasses
Frame style and material
When selecting sunglasses for gardening, frame size matters. Opt for large or oversized frames to maximize the coverage for your eyes and the surrounding skin, as these are areas sensitive to UV radiation.
Since you’ll also be using sunglasses to shield the eyes from dust, dirt, splinters, and other outdoor debris, prioritize a durable yet lightweight material to balance comfort and protection. Such frame materials include plastics like nylon and acetate, as well as metals like titanium and stainless steel.
Lens options
Aside from the frame itself, decide which lens options fit your vision and lifestyle needs. If you have vision problems like nearsightedness or age-related presbyopia, consider investing in prescription sunglasses so you don’t have to sacrifice your corrective lenses for a pair of shades.
Optical retailer Sunglass Hut allows you to choose your favorite frames, like the classic Ray-Ban Wayfarer, and simply upload your prescription online to get a pair that matches your eye grade and comes with aftercare services.
Other lens options include anti-scratch coatings to withstand potential physical damage from debris and weather elements.
UV protection
Of course, you can’t forget UV protection to prevent the sunlight from straining your eyes and contributing to serious vision problems.
Besides polarized options, the optical brand Firmoo provides comprehensive UV protection for its prescription and non-prescription sunglasses, allowing you to enjoy gardening under the sun without worrying about your health. This broad-spectrum coverage means your sunglasses can block up to 99% of UVA, UVB, and UV400 wavelengths.
Besides wearing sunglasses, you can also invest in protective clothing like sleeves, sun hats, and aprons labeled with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) and made of lightweight, breathable fabrics. Combining these clothing and accessories helps you tend to your garden with maximum comfort and safety.
Great information in this post, I must have sunglasses outside and find my eyes are sensitive even when cloudy. Thanks for reminding me I need another backup pair!