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Lenses You'll Love

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to sunglasses. So what are some important considerations when you’re in the market for a new pair?
by Jennifer Forst | 1 minute read

PRODUCT TECHNOLOGY

Lenses You’ll Love

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to sunglasses. So what are some important considerations when you’re in the market for a new pair?

JAN 4, 2022

|

4 MINUTE READ

by Jennifer Forst

Jennifer is a freelance communications consultant based in the bluegrass of Kentucky.

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to sunglasses. So what are some important considerations when you’re in the market for a new pair?

  1. Quality – Not all lenses are created equal. While it may be tempting to go for the coolest looking sunglasses at the lowest possible cost, make sure to know what you’re getting. Haze, washout or distortion can be common in lower-quality lenses. A variety of factors can impact lens quality:
  • The lens material - in order of quality it’s triacetate cellulose - TAC (mediocre), Polycarbonate (better) and Nylon (best)
  • Whether the polarization is embedded during manufacturing (ideal) or applied afterward (ok, but often scratches or wears off)
  • The different types of anti-glare coating
  • Color tinting - is the tint you select the best for how you’ll use your lenses?
  1. Fit – Of course you want to seek out frames that are comfortable and stylish, but many people don’t consider finding the right lens color for their lifestyle. Where will your adventures take you? Let that be the guide to lens color:

Blue base Lens

Enhances the contours around objects and improves color perception

Everyday use (in mist, fog, snow) Golfing, Spectating

Brown base Lens

Brightens vision in lower-light conditions (cloudy days) Improves contrast and can enhance depth-perception

Driving, Golfing, Water sports Fishing/Hunting, Cycling

Green base lens

Transmits colors evenly/accurately; provide better contrast than grey lenses

Everyday use  Outdoor activities (rain or shine)

Grey base lens

Reduces glare and brightness without color distortion

Driving, Running, Outdoor sports

Rose

Help the eyes adjust to contrast, reduce eye strain by reducing glare from computer screens and snow; increase depth of field and vision

Golf, Running, Skiing Low-light (computer use; gaming)

Tint preference can also be influenced by eye color. For example, blue-eyed people sometimes have a higher sensitivity to light; meaning they may prefer a lens with a lower visible light transmission (VLT) which blocks out more visible light.  VLT is measured in percentages with a lower percentage meaning a darker tint.

  1. Safety – According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, sunglasses should offer 100 percent protection from both UVB and UVA rays.  Although UVB is known to be more harmful to skin and eyes, doctors suggest to avoid both types of rays. The lenses should also block UV wavelengths up to 400 nanometers.

    UV protective sunglasses with scratches should be replaced or repaired, as the damage to the protective coating can let in UV rays. 
  1. Durability – Personal items we use all day, every day -  like, glasses, phones and watches – tend to take a beating. It’s no surprise you see repair shops for these items popping up everywhere. When shopping, confirm the lenses were durability-tested according to industry standards like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This will help ensure the safety and security of your eyes, but also of your new lenses when you drop them on the floor, smash them with your luggage, etc. etc. 

Happy shopping! 

ANSI code for Sayso Shades: ANSI Z80.3-2018

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