Moscot Moments

Cherry Jones | The LEMTOSH

Moscot Moments

Cherry Jones in The LEMTOSH | Defending Jacob

on Sep 10 2021
Two-time Tony award winner, Cherry Jones, wears The LEMTOSH in Apple TV’s limited drama series, Defending Jacob, while playing attorney Joanna Klein. This iconic frame is available in 21 colorways, but Jones sports The LEMTOSH in Tortoise for a timeless look. Source Craving more MOSCOT? Read on for highlights, celebrity sightings, insider info, & surprise announcements in MOSCOT Moments.  To see other celebrities wearing MOSCOT Eyewear - visit EYE SPY.
Sam Shepard | The LEMTOSH

Moscot Moments

Sam Shepard in The LEMTOSH

on Aug 17 2021
Sam Shepard, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Oscar-nominated actor, and celebrated author had an impressive career spanning half a century. Among his many film and TV credits was that of Netflix’s Bloodline, one of his final appearances. Portraying Robert Rayburn in Season 1 of the American thriller series, Shepard was spotted wearing MOSCOT’s LEMTOSH SUN and OYGEN SUN styles. Thank you to Sam Shepard, for your extraordinary career and profound contributions to the world. Sam Shepard wearing The LEMTOSH SUN in Blonde Craving more MOSCOT? Read on for highlights, celebrity sightings, insider info, & surprise announcements in MOSCOT Moments.  To see other celebrities wearing MOSCOT Eyewear - visit EYE SPY.
Nicholas Braun | The GONIF Glasses

Moscot Moments

Nicholas Braun | The GONIF Glasses

on Jun 16 2021
American actor Nicholas Braun was lensed in The GONIF Eyeglasses for the July 2021 Issue of British GQ. A squared-off, lightweight aviator made from pure titanium with a sleek double brow bar, The GONIF is constructed with color coordinating titanium nose pads and titanium teardrop temple tips. Much like Braun’s breakout role as Cousin Greg in HBO’s hit series Succession, The GONIF was made to steal the spotlight! Read the full article from British GQ here.     Craving more MOSCOT? Read on for highlights, celebrity sightings, insider info, & surprise announcements in MOSCOT Moments.  To see other celebrities wearing MOSCOT Eyewear - visit EYE SPY.
Polarized Gold Mirrored Metal Sunglasses

Moscot Moments

Polarized Gold Mirrored Metal Sunglasses

on Jun 03 2021
Are you ready to go bold in gold? Introducing MOSCOT’s Polarized Gold Mirrored Metal collection! These monochromatic metal sunglasses are fabricated with polarized lenses with a unique gold mirrored coating to reduce glare and add on style. Available in our favorite metal frames ranging in shape from classic aviators like The SHTARKER to round sunglasses like The ZEV. Eliminate glare in a sleek, luxe gold metal frame and get ready to take on summer! Go for gold with our Polarized Gold Mirror sunglasses and shop the collection now! Have questions about polarized lenses? We’re here to help! What are Polarized Lenses, and why do you need them? MOSCOT polarized sunglasses block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and are particularly useful for eliminating glare. Glare can interfere with depth perception and color contrast, making outdoor activities such as hiking or snow and water sports more difficult or uncomfortable. How do polarized lenses reduce harsh glare? Our Polarized Sunglass lenses block horizontal light waves, known as reflections, while allowing the vertical waves, or direct light, to pass through.  By removing the horizontally reflected light, the polarization effect of our lenses effectively eliminates glare while enhancing color, depth, and clarity. When should you wear polarized sunglasses? While polarized sunglasses can be worn at any time, they are especially beneficial when engaging in outdoor activities near reflective surfaces such as water or snow. They’re also great while driving in bright sunshine!
Adam Brody | The LEMTOSH SUN

Moscot Moments

Adam Brody | The LEMTOSH SUN Sunglasses in Black

on May 14 2021
Known for his breakout role as Seth Cohen in The O.C., Adam Brody stars in the TV Series Startup, now streaming on Netflix. Handcrafted using Italian acetate, the iconic LEMTOSH sunglasses features diamond-shaped rivets, acetate nose pads, and a comfortable key hole nose bridge - perfect for a day in the sun.  Read the full article from Harper's Bazaar here. Read the full article from TV Insider here.   Craving more MOSCOT? Read on for highlights, celebrity sightings, insider info, & surprise announcements in MOSCOT Moments.    To see other celebrities wearing MOSCOT Eyewear - visit EYE SPY.
Giorgia Todrani | The LEMTOSH Black w/ CMT

Moscot Moments

Giorgia Todrani | The LEMTOSH Glasses

on Apr 30 2021
Known for her soulful voice and notable duets with artists such as Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli, and Elton John, Giorgia Todrani—best known as Giorgia—is an icon in her own right. Seen rockin’ The LEMTOSH with a Custom Made Tint™, the Italian singer-songwriter is no stranger to a #MOSCOTMoment! Each LEMTOSH Custom Made Tint™ is tinted by hand and features diamond-shaped rivets, acetate nose pads, and a comfortable key hole nose bridge for standout style on and off the stage. We’ll cheers to that! SHOP The LEMTOSH with a Custom Made Tint™ Craving more MOSCOT? Read on for highlights, celebrity sightings, insider info, & surprise announcements in MOSCOT Moments.  To see other celebrities wearing MOSCOT Eyewear - visit EYE SPY.
MOSCOT Custom Made Tints™

Moscot Moments

MOSCOT Custom Made Tints™

on Apr 02 2021
MOSCOT has been custom tinting lenses for decades, using a variety of handmade, dip-dying techniques. Now available for The LEMTOSH, MILTZEN, SHTARKER, ZEV, ZOLMAN, CLIPTOSH, and CLIPZEN in 20 unique colorways, Custom Made Tints™ are currently available on MOSCOT.COM and MOSCOT Shops around the globe! Shop now for new custom made glasses! Fun fact! 4th Generation Harvey Moscot’s first job was tinting in the lab! With 20 unique tint options to choose from, tinted lens preferences may change depending on style, fashion, or purpose. Grey and Green tinted glasses (American Grey Fade, Calibar Green, G-15) are considered neutral as they allow the eyes to perceive color in their truest form. Brown lenses (Cosmitan Brown) provide contrast and minimize eyestrain. Yellow (Mellow Yellow) is ideal for object definition, while Amber may make distant objects appear more distinct—especially in snow or haze. Vermillion lenses (Big Apple Fade, Cabernet) provide color perception and contrast in low light. Try a unique look with rose tinted glasses, yellow tinted glasses, or blue tinted glasses!  A look back on the history of tinted lenses: The first tinted glasses appeared in the 1800s on protective steel spectacles with Viridian Green Glass lenses to correct various vision impairments. They were primarily designed to prevent bright sunlight and high-energy visible light from damaging or discomforting the eyes. By 1904, American Automobile Goggles grew in popularity as tinted sunglasses as necessary protective accessories to keep riders comfortable, safe, and clean. The 1930s brought on a new wave of American Glass Sunglasses with Calibar Green lenses in the forefront of style and technology. In the 1940s, lenses in red, green, blue, or yellow tints were matched with frames to compliment skin and hair colors, and in some cases, were thought to correct mood or medical illnesses. By the 1960s, a variety of lens colors grew in popularity, in MOSCOT shades like Big Apple Fade, Mellow Yellow, Denim Blue, Limelight, and American Grey Fade. In addition to making a fashion statement, tinted shades in the ‘80s were chosen to highlight eyes or cheeks and soften surface reflections. Fashion tints are still quite popular today in a wide range of colorways, styles, and functions, and can be seen on MOSCOT fans from Cristiano Ronaldo in The LEMTOSH with Purple Nurple Custom Made Tint™ to Elton John in a rose pink tinted BUPKES! MOSCOT is eager to help you find what color tint is best for glasses. Get your tint on by visiting MOSCOT.COM or your nearest MOSCOT Shop! Shop Custom Made Tints™ to personalize your favorite frame. Have questions about customizing your lenses? We’re here to help! Contact a MOSCOT Frame Fit Specialist at support@moscot.com or give us a ring at (866) MOSCOTS.
How to order: Custom Made Tints™ online or in Shop!

Moscot Moments

How to order: Custom Made Tints™ online or in Shop!

on Apr 02 2021
Each Custom Made Tint™ is just that—individually handmade and dip-dyed in our New York City lab. First introduced in the 1970s, MOSCOT Custom Made Tints™ are still handmade, dip-dyed lenses offered in 20 unique colorways. Fun Fact: (4th Generation) Harvey’s first job was hand dipping lenses in the Orchard Street Lab! Step one is to select a frame. You can add a Custom Made Tint™ to any MOSCOT frame in Shop or online with the help of our Family Members. We’ve added a few of our favorite frames to get tintin’ on MOSCOT. COM. Make sure to check out The LEMTOSH, MILTZEN, SHTARKER, ZEV, ZOLMAN, and Clip-Ons with your favorite hand-dipped tints to get started.   Next, choose your tint! With 20 different tint colors ranging from gradient shades of yellow and blue (that’s Aqua Sunrise) to vibrant tones of purple (named Purple Nurple!), we’ve got the ROYGBIV spectrum covered! Lookin’ for an understated shade? Try Bel Air Blue! Want a vibrant pop of color? Take a look at Woodstock Orange. No matter how you frame it, we’ve got a tint that’s right for you.   SHOP CUSTOM MADE TINTS™ Optional: Add your Prescription. Wear your new colorful glasses as sunnies, fashion tints, or even everyday eyeglasses by adding in your prescription! During your checkout process, you can add your prescription information. Enter your prescription manually, send it in later (don’t worry, we’ll send you a reminder!), or we can call your doctor. Enjoy your new frame! Our MOSCOT Family Members can assist you along the way. Questions on customization? We’ve got answers! Give us a ring: 1.866.MOSCOTS or Email us: support@moscot.com. What’s your tint of choice? Check out all MOSCOT Custom Made Tints™ and show your true colors!
America's most influential tastemakers celebrate Joe Biden's style

Moscot Moments

America's most influential tastemakers celebrate Joe Biden's style

on Apr 02 2021
5th Generation and Chief Design Officer Zack Moscot chimes in on the longevity of the American aviator.   Source
Spring 2021 Fashion Campaigns

Moscot Moments

Spring 2021 Fashion Campaigns

on Apr 02 2021
W Magazine includes MOSCOT's Spring 2021 Campaign in their Best Spring Fashion roundup.   Source
MOSCOT Celebrates NYC with its Spring 21 Collection

Moscot Moments

MOSCOT Celebrates NYC with its Spring 21 Collection

on Apr 02 2021
Featured on Acquire.com, MOSCOT's Spring 2021 Campaign celebrates the strength of New York.   Source
13 Essential Items Inspired by Fran Lebowitz

Moscot Moments

13 Essential Items Inspired by Fran Lebowitz

on Apr 02 2021
Vanity Fair points to The FRANKIE as a pair of classic specs inspired by legendary humorist Fran Lebowitz.   Source
An Ode to Fran Lebowitz’s Style—Which She Would Totally Hate

Moscot Moments

An Ode to Fran Lebowitz’s Style—Which She Would Totally Hate

on Apr 02 2021
Vogue taps into iconic New Yorker Fran Lebowitz's style with a highlight of The BLUMA.   Source
MOSCOT ALL DAY

Moscot Moments

MOSCOT ALL DAY

on Mar 25 2021
Four frames to take you through the week! From meetings to happy hour, and even while staying active, switch up your look with fresh specs that match your lifestyle! LEMTOSH – It doesn’t get any more classic or iconic (Classiconic™!) than The LEMTOSH! Start your day in style with these rounder acetate specs available in 21 colorways and 4 sizes. Join The LEMTOSH Legacy and take your look from day to night with Digital Relief, Sunglasses, and hand-dipped tint clips! HAMISH – Did ya know the first cable temples were developed to secure fit for face-paced activities like sports? Perfectly round, with authentic cable temples sure to keep your frame in place, The HAMISH is made from metal with Windsor Rim-inspired eyewire, detailed filigree, and bone colored nose-pads. Perfect for your morning jog or spin class!   SHINDIG SUN – Take on Happy Hour in stride with hand-dipped lenses that always propose a reason to celebrate. The SHINDIG – a frame as fun as its name – is a classic square silhouette that takes on a whole new feel with Custom Made Tint™ lenses that can get a party started day or night! Time to try something new? Pick a frame and select a lens that’s right for you!
HERITAGE METALS

Moscot Moments

HERITAGE METALS

on Feb 28 2021
Looking for a lightweight frame that doesn’t skip out on style? Try a MOSCOT Metal frame! MOSCOT Metal eyeglasses and sunglasses reflect our refined eyewear collection combining traditional craftsmanship with the finest materials and authentic, timeless designs. Our wire frame glasses are available in a wide range of colors and materials from Matte Silver Stainless Steel to hypoallergenic Titanium and everything in between! Explore our heritage metal collection and elevate your everyday look with a timeless metal frame. Made from pure lightweight titanium, The GONIF features a sleek double brow bar hinting at an aviator, titanium nose pads and teardrop temple tips, and is available in one size in Silver and Gold. Shop The LAZER SUN in Matte Silver/ Dark Grey The LAZER is a modern interpretation of a vintage glacier glass style designed to seamlessly mix outdoor adventure with downtown style. Handcrafted from metal with ribbed filigree detail and a color coordinating acetate sweat bar, The LAZER comes in Gold/Matte Black, Matte Silver/Dark Grey, and Antique Gold/Matte Dark Brown in two sizes. Shop The HAMISH in Silver Perfectly round metal specs with authentic cable temples and bone-colored nose pads, The HAMISH is available in Antique Gold and Matte Pewter. Just give this frame a nose to straddle and ears to hug! Shop The SHTARKER with Denim Blue Custom Made Tint™ Made from metal featuring a double-bar bridge and acetate temple tips, this aviator is ready to take flight in Gold and Gunmetal! Bonus: The SHTARKER pairs perfectly with a Custom Made Tint™! Shop The MISH in Black Inspired by 2nd Generation Sol’s trip to Cuba in the 1950s, The MISH is uniquely made with both Matte and Shiny metal finishes, intricate skiving on the temples, and acetate temple tips. These classically square wire frame glasses are made in Silver, Gold, and Black. Valued for its versatility and traditional fashion, the panto-style and dual colorways of The ZIS are simple, but forever. Check out Matte Pewter/Dark Grey and Antique Gold/Tortoise for a touch of old-school design! Shop The LEMTOSH-MAC in Tortoise/Matte Gold The combination of stainless steel and Italian acetate of The LEMTOSH-MAC brings #Classiconic™ design into the 21st century. Available in three color combinations, The LEMTOSH-MAC upholds the LEMTOSH Legacy with its own gold standard. Shop The ZEV-TT SUN in Gold Stronger than steel, but lighter in weight, The ZEV-TT Special Edition is a reworked masterpiece of the beloved MOSCOT Original, The ZEV and shines in Gold titanium! Explore our collection of handcrafted heritage wire frame glasses!
Behind the Scenes: Spring 2021 Collection Design

Moscot Moments

Behind the Scenes: Spring 2021 Collection Design

on Feb 01 2021
Take a look behind the lens as Chief Design Officer and 5th Generation, Zack Moscot, introduces the new Spring 2021 Collection and shares the family-passed story behind each heritage-inspired frame. GONIF ZM: The GONIF is our first-ever pure titanium aviator. You may recognize our distinct titanium temple tip design and even our Custom Made Tints™ that give this unique metal frame the glitz and glamour it truly deserves. Story: In the early days of Saturday Night Live, our Orchard Street Shop managers would often field last minute calls for characters needing glamorous frames for that night’s show. With the glitz of titanium and shape hinting at an aviator, The GONIF was made to steal the spotlight. HITSIK ZM: The HITSIK is inspired by the famous musicians that came to MOSCOT in the 1960s. This classic frame features paddle temples and our most Classiconic™ color pairings such as Burnt Rose and Calibar Green glass lenses. This piece is nothing short of American rock ‘n roll! Story: Back in the 60s, local musician Buddy was always found jammin’ around the East Village’s simmering music scene with a guitar slung across his hips and a pair of shades on top his head. An ode to our musical roots, and the classics we can’t live without, put your hands together for The HITSIK! VANTZ ZM: Utilizing the same great DNA of The LEMTOSH, The VANTZ embodies our world renowned pair of specs. Featuring new colorways such as Brown Bamboo and Ink, The VANTZ is a strong force to reckon with. This new frame is available in two sizes, Optical and Sun, and fits nearly all face types. Story: If The LEMTOSH had a smart aleck little brother, his name would be VANTZ. With its subtle curves, small diamond rivets, and playful array of colorways, The VANTZ has the same great DNA as the beloved LEMTOSH, with its own feeling of flare.  TAMAVAT ZM: The TAMAVAT is an 80s inspired MOSCOT Original with big personality. This frame packs a punch and makes a bold statement using size, color, and intricate acetate details on the front and temple. Don’t underestimate The TAMAVAT! Story: After a busy weekend in the Lower East Side, 4th Generation Harvey would take the staff across the street to a cool after-hours bar. Sheila, the bartender, had a big personality, and even bigger hair. In honor of her epic 80s style, and generous (read: big) pour, we cheers to Sheila and The TAMAVAT! PUPIK ZM: The PUPIK is a round, lightweight reverse Windsor rim with a distinct top bar and titanium nose pads. This frame is not only flexible, but also super comfortable. Just ask 4th Generation, Harvey Moscot, you’ll see him wearing The PUPIK this season! Story: Whenever he had an extra buck and a little break, Uncle Heshy loved to play the horses at the OTB on Delancey. Always a fan of circular specs and a locked-in favorite, we bet The PUPIK would be Uncle Heshy’s next winning pick! YONTIF ZM: Made from thick block acetate with our signature MOSCOT diamond rivets, this extra chunky frame comes in two larger sizes and a handful of colorways. With the saddle bridge, soft beveled edges, and added height, The YONTIF takes on a more fashion-forward approach. Story: No need to wait for a special occasion to wear this chunky frame! Cut from block acetate into a streamlined shape, these spunky specs bring the party wherever you go—simply throw on your frame and have a good YONTIF!  ZM: I feel this new spring campaign and collection connects our family’s heritage to the resilience of New York City. We hope this new year brings us new sites, new hopes, and new success as we navigate into 2021.
THE SPRING 2021 COLLECTION

Moscot Moments

THE SPRING 2021 COLLECTION

on Jan 25 2021
MOSCOT’s Spring-Summer 2021 campaign and collection features 6 new frame styles inspired by the spirit of connection, the strength of New York City and the resilience of those who call the city home.   Navigating onward and into 2021, MOSCOT aspires to bridge the gap – fostering connection and community after an unprecedented year that required a new degree of social distancing and physical disconnection.  Shot on, under, and around the Manhattan Bridge, one of 21 iconic bridges connecting the world to Manhattan, the new Spring 2021 collection highlights the strength of its frames through an introspection of materials and construction. “The representation of strong metal textures and the sturdy vibrational movement of the iconic Manhattan Bridge was a key reference in the new designs that were handcrafted in limited batches this season, such as the pure titanium GONIF and the intentionally oversized TAMAVAT,” shares Chief Design Officer and 5th Generation, Zack Moscot. He adds, “I was inspired by our Lower East Side DNA, and some key characteristics of New York City that tell our unique and tenacious story.” As nostalgia seeps in and the city comes into focus, MOSCOT sets its sights on a new collection that connects the world to the family’s heritage and the resilience of New York City.  
Willa Fitzgerald | The LEMTOSH Glasses

Moscot Moments

Willa Fitzgerald | The LEMTOSH Glasses

on Jan 24 2021
Willa Fitzgerald in The LEMTOSH Eyeglasses in color Blush.  Blushing with style, American Actress, Willa Fitzgerald, is seen sporting The LEMTOSH in our complementary light pink hue. The LEMTOSH, now available in over 20 colorways and 4 sizes, has become MOSCOT’s signature style and continues to stand the test of time with its iconic design. This translucent hue is our take on a new neutral, perfect for everyday wear! Source Craving more MOSCOT? Read on for highlights, celebrity sightings, insider info, & surprise announcements in MOSCOT Moments.  To see other celebrities wearing MOSCOT Eyewear - visit EYE SPY.
What Are Blue Light Glasses?

Moscot Moments

What Are Blue Light Glasses?

on Jan 12 2021
Considering blue light glasses? Check out our guide to blue light glasses to learn everything you need to know about blue light blocking glasses! Everything You Need to Know About Blue Light Glasses Your vision is our concern, and that goes beyond prescriptions. Glare from digital screens can be an ongoing issue for many people. Whether we like it or not, the truth is our world is full of screens! Between cell phones, computers, tablets, and TVs—oh my!—most people spend a large portion of their day staring directly into a digital screen. Whether it be for work, fun, or just to pass the time, all this screen time can start to take a toll on the eyes, leading to eye strain, eye fatigue, sleep disruption, and even headaches. To help combat the negative effects of all this screen time, many people are beginning to wear blue light filtering glasses. Maybe you’ve heard of blue light glasses before, seen a work colleague use a pair, or have even tried ‘em on yourself. Or maybe, you’re entirely new to the world of blue light glasses. Either way, you probably have some questions: How do they work? What do they do? Where can I find the most stylish blue light glasses on the market? Well, look no further! In this guide, we’ll answer all your questions about blue light glasses so that you have all the information you need to help you find the perfect pair. What Are Blue Light Glasses? Blue light glasses, or blue-light blocking glasses, feature specially designed lenses that filter out blue light from digital screens, helping to reduce eye strain during prolonged screen time. These lenses filter out high-energy visible light and help eliminate glare by providing a protective layer. What is Blue Light? As part of the visible light spectrum, high-energy blue light comes from both the sun and artificial light sources, like digital screens. Fourth-generation and Doctor of Optometry, Dr. Harvey Moscot, says: “Over-exposure to this high energy blue light from computers and other digital devices can lead to symptoms such as eye-strain, headaches, and sleep disruption.” According to The Vision Council, 80% of American adults report using digital devices for more than two hours per day, with nearly 67% using two or more devices simultaneously. 59% report experiencing symptoms of digital eye strain. From TVs and tablets to computers and phones, we’re constantly exposing ourselves to high-energy blue light. The more time spent in front of digital devices, the more work the eye must do to focus on the changing images from the flicker, contrast, and glare of the screen, resulting in eye strain. How can you reduce the impact of blue light? We all use tech every day, whether we’re sitting at a computer for work, using a smartphone, or even just watching TV. These things can all cause blue light overexposure. To reduce the impact of blue light, you should:  Cut down screen time. The simplest way to minimize the impact of blue light is to limit the amount of time spent looking at screens. If you work on a screen, take regular breaks away from your desk to rest your eyes. To ensure your eyes and body are prepared for sleep, you should also try to limit the amount of time spent looking at your phone and watching TV in the hour before bed. Adjust your settings. Most screens and phones come with a ‘blue light’ option that you can automatically activate in the evening. This means your digital devices emit less blue light at night, helping to reduce the effects on your body. Work in well-lit spaces. If you’re working on screens, ensure you’re working in a well-lit room. If the area you’re in is too dim, the contrast with your screen can increase eye fatigue. Try blue light glasses. Blue light glasses filter out the glare and blue light from screens, helping to reduce the effect on your eyes. They're a great option if you work on screens or struggle to reduce your time on digital devices.  Do blue light filter glasses work? Yes, blue light glasses are proven to filter out blue light, helping to reduce glares and making a better overall experience for anyone using a digital screen Can You Wear Blue Light Glasses with Contacts? Yes! MOSCOT blue light glasses are ready-to-wear with no prescription necessary. Therefore, if you wear contact lenses, you can put on a pair of blue light glasses as well. That way, you get all the benefits of blue light glasses without sacrificing your eyesight! Looking for a blue light solution for your eyeglasses? We also offer clip-on blue light lenses that can be easily affixed to your prescription MOSCOT eyeglasses. Simply attach the blue light clip-on lenses to your MOSCOT eyeglasses whenever you sit down in front of a digital screen. Classiconic™ Blue Light Glasses from MOSCOT If you’re looking for a stylish pair of blue light glasses, we offer a wide range of options in our most popular styles! Explore our complete selection of blue light glasses, in classic and iconic styles including LEMTOSH, MILTZEN, ZOLMAN, and FRITZ, among many more. We also offer a selection of clip-on blue light lenses for those who already wear MOSCOT eyeglasses but want the additional benefit of blue light-blocking glasses. Whether you’re in the office, working from home, or just bingeing your favorite TV show, MOSCOT blue light glasses are the iconic eyewear you need to look stylish while also preventing eye strain and fatigue, it’s a win-win! Sight is precious! Visit a MOSCOT Shop or shop here to find Digital Relief blue light glasses for all multimedia devices!
A Guide to Polarized Sunglasses

Moscot Moments

A Guide to Polarized Sunglasses

on Jan 08 2021
MOSCOT’s Complete Guide to Polarized Sunglasses! Here at MOSCOT, one of the most common questions we receive is ‘What’s the difference between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses?’ It’s a good question and one worth knowing the answer to, as polarized lenses typically come at a higher price point than non-polarized lenses.  That’s why we’ve put together this guide: to help you understand the differences between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses, the best uses for polarized sunglasses, and how to decide if polarized or non-polarized sunglasses are the right choice for you! You can also explore our complete selection of polarized sunglasses here to find your perfect set of sunnies! What are polarized sunglasses? All MOSCOT Sunglasses provide optimal protection against UV radiation (harmful rays from the sun). Remember that UV radiation exists year-round and that the color of the lens has no impact on UV radiation protection by the lens. Polarized lenses are fabricated in a unique way that is specifically designed to reduce glare from intense reflected light. As glare is caused from the sun reflecting off water, or a solid surface, polarized lenses are particularly beneficial while at the beach, lake, or around snow, or while participating in outdoor activities such as water sports, snow sports, or fishing. Non-polarized sunglasses, on the other hand, also block harmful UV rays from reaching the eyes. However, the lenses aren't treated the same as polarized lenses and do not help to reduce harsh glares. Non-polarized glasses are better suited for activities that require the use of LED screens, as polarized sunglasses make it difficult to see LED light. This is why most pilots use non-polarized sunglasses so that they can better see their various screens and instruments.  How do polarized sunglasses work? To understand how polarized sunglasses work, you first need to know a little about sunlight and glare. When sunlight reaches uneven surfaces, like the grass or sidewalk, it is scattered, so no glare occurs (this accounts for most of the sunlight that reaches our eyes and is known as vertical light). However, when sunlight hits a smooth, flat surface—like a body of water—it is reflected in a single direction, resulting in a harsh glare, also known as horizontal light. Polarized lenses are specially treated to absorb this horizontal light while still allowing other vertical light to pass through, reducing perceived glares.   A brief history of polarized sunglasses So, when were polarized sunglasses invented? Believe it or not, polarized sunglasses have existed for over 85 years! They were invented in 1936 by an inventor named Edwin H. Land. Land had previously patented the Polaroid filter, which filtered out horizontal light. He then applied that filter to sunglass lenses, thus creating the first pair of polarized sunglasses.  These original polarized sunglasses were first sold to the public in 1937. They were also extremely popular with pilots during World War II (when plane instruments were largely analog). Since then, polarized sunglasses have become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who like to fish and ski. The rest, as they say, is history! Best uses for polarized sunglasses As mentioned, polarized sunglasses are extremely popular in various outdoor activities, especially those involving water or snow. They can be quite beneficial in activities like: Fishing Boating Skiing Snowboarding Golfing Take fishing, for example. Polarized sunglasses reduce the glare from the surface of the water, allowing anglers to see any fish that might be swimming underneath.  Boating is another activity that is great for polarized sunglasses. The harsh glare of the sun off water can make it difficult (or even dangerous!) to operate a boat, especially at high speeds. Polarized glasses reduce that glare, allowing the driver to better see where they are going.  Similarly, when the sun reflects off the snow, it can make it hard to see while enjoying winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Polarized sunglasses reduce that glare, allowing skiers to see their way down the run better and look out for other obstacles and people on the mountain. Overall, polarized sunglasses are best suited for outdoor activities that are often hampered by harsh glares from the sun.  Are polarized sunglasses better? Polarized sunglasses aren’t necessarily better than non-polarized sunglasses; it all depends on what you are using the sunglasses for. If you’re just bopping around town and want a stylish way to protect your eyes, non-polarized sunglasses should do the trick just fine.  However, if you find yourself spending a lot of time doing water sports or winter mountain sports, a pair of polarized sunglasses could be super beneficial. Once you determine what you’ll be using your sunglasses for, you can decide whether polarized or non-polarized sunglasses are right for you.  How to choose polarized sunglasses  If you think polarized sunglasses are right for you, the next step is picking your perfect pair! You can explore our complete range of polarized sunglasses here, offered in a wide selection of our most popular frames and colors.  If you’re unsure of how you might look, many of our frames come with the ability to try them on virtually. Head over to our Virtual Try-On to try on frames without leaving your home! It’s like being in your own personal MOSCOT store from the privacy of your own home.    SHOP POLARIZED SUNGLASSES