Sunglass Lenses
CR-39 and poly-carbonate are common materials for sunglass lenses, each with distinct characteristics. CR-39 offers superior optical clarity and is a good choice for those with mild prescriptions, while poly-carbonate lenses are known for their impact resistance, making them suitable for sports and active wear.
Poly-carbonate lenses are a type of glasses lens made from a thermoplastic that is thin, lightweight, offers built-in UV protection and is impact resistant.
Poly-carbonate lenses are ideal for those needing strong, durable lenses, such as athletes, children, and individuals requiring daily impact protection. They offer high impact resistance, UV protection, and a thin, lightweight profile.
Most poly-carbonate lenses come with built-in UV protection, blocking 99% to 100% of harmful UV rays. This helps protect the eyes from conditions like cataracts and other UV-related damage.
CR-39 provides vastly superior optics, rating just one rung below the material with the highest ABBE value: crown glass.
CR-39 is a type of plastic polymer commonly used in eyeglass and sunglass lenses. It's known for its high optical clarity, lightweight nature, and affordability. It also offers good scratch resistance compared to some other plastic lens materials. While it's a popular choice for everyday wear, it's not as impact-resistant as poly-carbonate lenses, so it may not be ideal for situations with a high risk of impact or injury.
Plastic lenses do not offer UV protection, which is a huge consideration for many users. Many cheap sunglasses come with plastic lenses which offer no protection from UV rays. However, you can also add an extra coating to your plastic lenses that would help with the absorption of UV rays. Keep in mind that this would impact the thickness of the lens.
Lens colours If you're in low light conditions, hazy fog, or cloudy weather when you wear sunglasses, a yellow, green, or grey tint might be best for you. If you use sunglasses in brighter conditions, a grey, blue, or brown lens might be best.