Sunglasses for Alberta Blue Skies
In Alberta, we see clear blue skies that go on for days, and then tell-tale arch of clouds as a Chinook rolls in. Whether the sun is shining bright on a blue sky day or darkened by clouds, the weather in Calgary can change on a dime. Having sunglasses handy can help you prepare for unpredictable weather and shield your eyes from UV damage.
Check out our online store for a variety of sunglass accessories.
For more information about how to protect your eyes from UV rays, book an appointment with Dr. Bishop & Associates.
Are Your Sunglasses Protecting Your Eyes?
Not all sunglasses are made equal. For example, some sunglasses offer protection from UV radiation while others use coloured filter for reducing light intensity.
The UV protection on sunglasses should block 99–100% UVA and UVB radiation. Look for shades that screen out 75–90% of visible light. Some labels can be confusing, as UV 400 is another label meaning 100% UV protection. Talk to your optometrist to learn about what UV protection options are best.
Size and fit are also valuable considerations. The more space covered, the harder it is for light and UV rays to penetrate your eyes. In addition, wider sunglasses offer protection from more angles, so the sun doesn’t leak into the spaces at the sides of your eyes.
Fit helps your sunglasses from slipping, but it also prevents gaps, which can leave you vulnerable to sunlight and dust. Your sunglasses are useful everyday shields, but they need to be in the right place to do their job.
If you’re not sure about the quality or fit of your sunglasses or are confused by UV protection labels, talk to your optometrist.
UV Radiation and Eye Health
You know sunglasses protect your eyes from UV damage, but how does UV radiation affect your eyes?
UV damage can impact your eye health, vision, and comfort. Besides causing squinting on a bright day, overexposure can lead to eye pain and inflammation.
Some eye conditions caused by cumulative exposure include:
- Cataracts
- Light sensitivity
- Macular degeneration
- Photokeratitis (cornea sunburn)
- Pterygium (opaque cornea growth)
- Pinguecula (small yellowish bumps on the white of the eye)
Sunglasses are an easy, stylish way to prevent eye conditions caused by UV damage. You can enjoy the wide-open blue skies and protect your eye health.
See Us for Your Sunglasses
We’re more than your number one choice for prescription glasses and contacts. If you need eyewear, we can help you find your best options. We can talk you through your choices for any aspect of your eye care, from sunglasses to health information.
Request an appointment with Dr. Bishop & Associates to talk about sunglasses.
Our Locations
You deserve the highest standard of eye care. Our 4 locations make it easy for you to receive quality eye care, no matter where you live.
Willow Park Village
- Phone: 403-974-3937
- Fax: 403-509-4859
- Email: [email protected]
- 575 – 10816 Macleod Trail SE
- Calgary, AB T2J 5N8
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Legacy Township
- Phone: 403-974-3937
- Fax: 587-392-7365
- Email: [email protected]
- 230 – 200 Hartell Way SE
- Calgary, AB T2X 4S9
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Beacon Hill
- Phone: 403-974-3937
- Fax: 403-509-4854
- Email: [email protected]
- 615 – 11877 Sarcee Trail NW
- Calgary, AB T3R 1W5
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Northgate Village
- Phone: 403-974-3937
- Fax: 403-509-4866
- Email: [email protected]
- 103 – 495 36 St NE
- Calgary, AB T2A 6K3
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Our Google Reviews
Willow Park
Legacy Township
Northgate Village
Beacon Hill
News & Resources
Reasons Why You Wake Up With Dry Eyes
Dry EyeWaking up refreshed is an incredible way to start the day. But waking up with a burning, gritty, and dry sensation in your eyes can easily dampen your day. Dry eyes are a common problem, and millions of people deal with it every morning. So, what are the reasons you wake up with dry eyes, […]
What Is the First Sign of Cataracts?
Eye Conditions, Eye healthOver the years, your eyes go through significant changes. One of these changes might be a condition called a cataract, which is a common part of the aging process. Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, but the eye disease is fortunately treatable. But what’s the first sign of cataracts? Cataracts develop […]
Vitamins & Supplements for Dry Eyes
Dry EyeDry eyes are more than just an occasional annoyance. For those who suffer consistently from this condition, it can be a daily struggle affecting their quality of life. Fortunately, various vitamins and supplements, such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help improve dry eye symptoms. When combined with home […]
Reasons Why You Wake Up With Dry Eyes
Waking up refreshed is an incredible way to start the day. But waking up with a burning, gritty, and dry sensation in your eyes can easily dampen your day. Dry eyes are a common problem, and millions of people deal with it every morning. So, what are the reasons you wake up with dry eyes, […]
What Is the First Sign of Cataracts?
Over the years, your eyes go through significant changes. One of these changes might be a condition called a cataract, which is a common part of the aging process. Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, but the eye disease is fortunately treatable. But what’s the first sign of cataracts? Cataracts develop […]
Vitamins & Supplements for Dry Eyes
Dry eyes are more than just an occasional annoyance. For those who suffer consistently from this condition, it can be a daily struggle affecting their quality of life. Fortunately, various vitamins and supplements, such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help improve dry eye symptoms. When combined with home […]