In addition to sunscreen, it’s a good idea to wear sunglasses when you go out to protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. But sunglass lenses come in many different shades, including brown, gray, green, and more. What does it mean?
The color of your sunglass lenses affects how sunlight filters in, and depending on the task or activity, some shades or colors work better than others. When you’re looking for your next pair of sunglasses, considering lens color will allow you to take advantage of the many benefits that sunglasses have to offer.
Here’s more information about lens color and how different shades can affect the way you see the world while protecting your eyes.
brown or amber
According to REI, darker shades, such as brown or amber, are common and suitable for everyday use. Brown has several advantages that make it such a popular color. It helps protect your eyes by blocking glare and preventing eye fatigue. It also enhances warm colors and brightens your vision.
Additionally, according to VSP Vision Care, the high contrast provided by these lenses ensures that even distant objects appear clearer and sharper. This makes them an excellent choice for sports and outdoor activities that require clear vision and high vision, such as hunting and golf.
yellow or orange
According to REI, yellow or orange sunglasses are ideal for moderate to low light conditions. They are useful in foggy, hazy or overcast conditions as they can enhance contrast and clarity. This color also makes it easier for your eyes to focus on moving objects, according to hiking and fishing reports. Gamers, pilots, hunters, and winter athletes all love this shade.
blue or purple
According to hunting and fishing regulations, blue or purple sunglasses help reduce glare in bright, sunny conditions and environments, thereby minimizing discomfort caused by bright reflections. According to Frames Direct, they can also improve color and outline perception. These qualities make them ideal for water sports and snow activities as well as wet or foggy conditions.
green
Green sunglasses are suitable for many occasions. They improve color perception and contrast, reduce glare, and also help brighten shadows. This makes them useful for sunny outdoor activities like golfing, fishing, and hiking, but they’re just as effective in low light or partially cloudy weather.
pink or red
According to Hunting and Fishing, pink or red lenses are ideal for depth perception. This color is also a popular choice for winter sports as it contrasts well with the white background. Additionally, these lenses may be beneficial for people with light sensitivity or certain eye conditions, providing a soothing effect and relieving eye strain.
grey
According to VSP, gray sunglasses provide neutral color perception and reduce overall brightness without distorting color. They are versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions, making them perfect for everyday wear. In bright sunlight, they minimize glare and eye fatigue and provide eye comfort. They are still equally useful on cloudy or low-light conditions. Wear them for outdoor activities such as running, biking, beach outings or while driving.
Other specifications that suit your specifications
When considering sunglasses to protect your eyes, there’s more to consider than just color and style. For example, lens coating, lens material, and frame material. Polarized lenses reduce glare, while mirror or glitter coatings enhance visual comfort. However, the most critical factor is UV protection, ensuring that your sunglasses block harmful rays that can cause certain eye diseases, such as cataracts or cancer. Combining these factors on a case-by-case basis can help determine the best sunglasses for optimal eye safety and comfort.
Correction on August 15: An earlier version of this story contained an incorrect tip. It is not advisable to wear red or pink lenses while driving.
