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Are Sunglasses Called Goggles?

Published in Eyewear Differences 3 mins read

No, sunglasses are not called goggles.

While both sunglasses and goggles are types of eyewear designed to protect the eyes, they serve different purposes and have distinct designs. Here's a breakdown:

Understanding the Differences

Feature Sunglasses Goggles
Primary Purpose Protect eyes from sunlight and reduce glare. Provide heavy-duty protection from impact, chemicals, debris, and liquids, in addition to environmental factors such as snow or water.
Construction Typically made with plastic or metal frames and lenses with a polaroid coating. Typically made with heavier, more impact-resistant materials and have a tighter seal around the eyes.
Common Use Everyday wear, driving, outdoor activities in sunny conditions. Swimming, laboratory work, industrial settings, skiing, and other high-impact or hazardous environments.

Detailed Explanation

Sunglasses

  • Function: Sunglasses primarily reduce the intensity of visible light and glare, enhancing visual comfort and clarity in bright conditions. The reference mentions "polaroid coating which helps your eye to protect from the sunlight."
  • Material: As the reference indicates, sunglasses are made from plastic or metal frames.
  • Design: Generally feature a lightweight design for everyday use.
  • Example: Typical sunglasses used while driving or when at the beach.

Goggles

  • Function: Goggles provide a high level of protection from physical hazards, as per the reference, “Goggles are a heavy pair of eyewear which used to protects the eyes”.
  • Material: Goggles are constructed with durable, impact-resistant materials and are often sealed or gasketed.
  • Design: Have a closer, more protective fit around the eyes compared to sunglasses.
  • Example: Swim goggles or safety goggles worn by a welder.

Key Differences Summarized

  • Protection Level: Goggles provide a significantly higher level of protection from physical impact, splashes, and debris, whereas sunglasses primarily focus on sun protection.
  • Fit: Goggles often form a tighter seal around the eyes to protect against hazards, while sunglasses may not have as close of a fit.
  • Application: The reference mentions that "It is used by swimmers or workers etc." Goggles are used in situations requiring safety, while sunglasses are mainly for comfort and sun protection.

Conclusion

The reference states, "Glares: It is the same as that of sunglasses." While "glares" can refer to an additional type of eyewear, the provided information makes it clear that sunglasses and goggles are two separate kinds of protective eyewear with different purposes and characteristics. They are not interchangeable.

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