Types of Lenses
Designer Sunglasses: All Lenses Are Not Created Equal
When purchasing a pair of designer sunglasses, some people don’t think much about the type of lenses they’re getting. If the glasses look good and feel comfortable, they may assume that is all they need to know. The fact is, there are many different types and qualities of sunglasses lenses, and it makes a lot of sense to know what you’re getting – both from a quality and eye protection standpoint.
Here’s the rundown on the types of lenses available:
Polycarbonate Lenses
These lenses are very common, very durable, and offer adequate protection against the sun’s powerful UV rays. For active lifestyles, designer sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses are a good choice, because they stand up to bumps and abrasions as well as or better than other lenses. Well them around town, at sporting events, and in the park – you name it.
Mirror Coated Lenses
As a popular feature in some aviator sunglass styles, mirror coated lenses look great – but watch out, as some of the cheaper aviator sunglasses feature mirror coated lenses that reflect visible light, but do a lousy job of protecting your eyes from UVA and UVB rays. Unless your sunglasses feature mirrored coated lenses that are specially manufactured to protect your eyes (it pays to find out – check the label) then you’d best steer clear of these. "These aren't really good protectors," says Lee Duffner M.D., professor of ophthalmology at the University of Miami. "If you are worried about UV, these should not be your first choice."
Photochromatic Lenses
Sunglass manufactures like Oakley and Serengeti offer designer sunglasses with photochromatic lenses that get darker when you step outside. Triggered by UV light, these lenses offer decent eye protection from UV rays -- though be aware that due to what is known as “temperature dependency,” photochromatic lenses perform better in colder, not warmer weather. They’re perfect for the slopes, and quite adequate for the sun, surf and turf as well, though some offer better UV protection than others. Check the label.
Blue Blocking Lenses
A favorite with sports enthusiasts and other active lifestyles, because they make it easy to see things at a distance, blue blocking lenses filter out harsh light waves. But be warned, unless your sunglasses label specifically indicates that your new sunglasses offer UV protection, you’re better off shopping around. Not only do not all blue blocking sunglasses lenses provide adequate UV protection, they may interfere with viewing streetlights and other important objects. Dasego.com offers only the finest designer sunglasses featuring the highest quality lenses.
Polarized Lenses
Don’t let the name fool you – unless specifically stated on the label, your sunglasses’ polarized lenses may not feature UV protection. They do a great job of reducing glare, but that’s about it, unless otherwise stated.
Clear As Glass
Glass lenses, though they may break easier that plastic lenses, do not scratch nearly as easily. And though they will last for years, shades with glass lenses are usually much heavier to wear.
When purchasing sunglasses, it pays to exercise an abundance of caution, to ensure you get the best value, quality and eye protection possible. At Dasego.com, we offer designer eyeglasses featuring only the best in eye protection.
