In the U.S., summer is synonymous with warm, bright rays of sunshine. While people often smother their delicate skin with sunscreen, it is just as important to protect the eyes from these damaging rays.

UV light, otherwise known as Ultra-violent rays, is just as damaging to the skin as it is to the eyes. Wearing sunglasses frequently helps reduce the chances of developing eyesight problems, which also includes macluar degeneration. However, estimates show that nearly 25-percent of adults do not wear sunglasses and only 58-percent of children do.

Statistics show that approximately 17-percent of people wear sunglasses for eye protection, while 66-percent only wear them to help reduce glare. Of the people that don't wear sunglasses, 50-percent say they merely forget to wear them, 14-percent claim to have broken or lost their sunglasses and 20-percent simply don't believe their eyes are at risk for developing cancer and other sun-related damage issues.

What are the primary concerns when shopping for sunglasses?

• UV Protection – This is by far the most important aspect of wearing sunglasses. Many people believe that darker shades let less damaging UV rays in; however, this is not always true. Good quality sunglasses will block 100-percent of UVA, UVB and blue light.
• High-Contrast Lenses – These types of lenses focus on adding vision clarity, not dullness. These are especially good options for outdoor enthusiasts and sports-related activities.
• Light Reduction – Consider purchasing a pair of sunglasses that offers 80-percent light reduction. This means that 20-percent of light can penetrate through, which is a comfortable amount to still see.
• Wraparound Styles – This style helps to reduce peripheral glare and is ideal for sports enthusiasts.
• Polarized Lenses – These are excellent for driving, around water and help to reduce overall glare.

Additionally, when looking for sunglasses, consider shades that feature the distinctive CE mark. This means that the sunglasses are accepted by the European Union's strict standards. This is also indicative of high-quality lenses that offer break-resistant qualities and protection against UV lights.

Even if someone wears sunglasses, it is important to remember it is not a save-all from damaging rays. Never look directly at the sun, as this can lead to either temporary or permanent blindness.

Olympic Eyewear offers a wide assortment of wholesale sunglasses, including X-Loop sunglasses, Biohazard sunglasses, Wayfarer sunglasses and Locs sunglasses, to name a few.