Types of Sunglass Lenses

Constant Tint Lenses

The tint in these lenses are a fixed colour that has a characteristic level of light absorption and light transmission. Tint density is defined as a percentage, where 0% is completely clear, and 100% permits no light to pass through (solid). A 10% to 20% tint is used for a “fashion” tint, and a 50% to 80% tint is used for outdoor protection from the sun. Constant tinting is the most economical and most common approach to sunglass design, providing excellent glare protection and are a good choice for those who are often in bright sunshine.

Photochromic or Transitions Lenses

Photochromic or Transition lenses automatically darken to a moderate shade when they are exposed to direct sunlight. When the direct sunlight is removed, the lenses lighten again. Early photochromics were strictly glass lenses, but today you can choose from regular plastic, polycarbonate and high-index glass and plastic. Most photochromic lenses are grey, but they are also available in brown, green, and other colors.

Gradient Tint Lenses

A gradient tint describes a lens with a full colour tint at the top, fading gradually to no tint at the bottom of the lens. This is an excellent option for those who like to read outside, where the tint in the top of the lens protects from the sun above, but the clearer lens at the bottom allows one to read more comfortably. A “double gradient tint” describes a lens with one full colour tint at the top and another full colour tint at the bottom of the lens, separated by a medium tint in the center of the lens. Double gradient tints are popular with skiers, because the lenses block glare coming from above (sun) and below (snow), while allowing for a clearer viewing area in the middle.

Polarized Lenses

For years, boaters and fishermen have used polarized sunglasses to reduce glare from the water that they spend so much time on.

In the past few years, however, the benefits of polarized sunglasses have been realized by a variety of other outdoor sports enthusiasts as well as by drivers and general use wearers.

The popularity of polarized lenses has increased dramatically, as has availability. Besides boaters, people that benefit most from polarized sunglasses include skiers, golfers, bikers, and joggers, who enjoy a clearer view and elimination of glare.

Polarized sunglass lenses are tinted lenses that block vertical light from hitting your eye and causing eye strain. Polarized lenses function similar to window blinds with horizontal slats when open. Polarized lenses block the vertical light that tries to enter your eye from down below or up above, and it only allow the horizontal light to pass through the lens.

Any surface can create glare including water, sand, snow, windows, vehicles, and buildings. Polarized lenses ease eye stress and fatigue in the sun, and polarized lenses are available in many colours and density options.

LENS MATERIALS LENS TYPES LENS COATINGS

TINT COLOURS CHILDREN'S SUNGLASSES

Please click on some of out most popular sunglass lines below to be linked to the respective company's website. Their online catalogues will provide you with extensive sunglass collections, displaying numerous shapes, sizes and colours. Please contact us regarding availability and pricing if you find a frame that you are interested in.

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