Eye Health Central

Sunglass Lens Colour Guide

Sunglass Lens Colours Explained

There’s so much to consider when picking your perfect pair of sunglasses from the frame style, lens shape, colour of the frame… and the colour of the lens, each colour of lens has its style benefits and you may be stuck on which one to choose… before making your decision discover what the benefits of each individual lens colour is, this might help you narrow down your choice completely (or make it harder!) but it can help you find the perfect pair that will cater to all your needs and protect your eyes in style!


sunglasses coloured lens options


Neutral Grey Lenses: Classic Elegance and True Colour Perception

Neutral grey lenses are renowned for their ability to maintain true colour perception while reducing overall brightness. These lenses are particularly suited for bright, sunny conditions, as they effectively block out intense sunlight without distorting colours. Whether you're lounging by the beach or driving on a sunny day, neutral grey lenses provide excellent comfort and protection without altering your surroundings' natural hues.


Brown/Amber Lenses: Enhanced Contrast and Versatility

If you're looking for versatility and improved contrast, brown or amber lenses might be your best bet. These lenses are excellent for various outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and driving. They enhance visual acuity by increasing contrast, which is especially beneficial in situations where depth perception is crucial. Brown lenses also tend to be more forgiving in lower light conditions compared to other darker tints.


Green Lenses: Balanced Protection and Visual Comfort

Green lenses strike a balance between the benefits of grey and brown lenses. They provide good colour perception while reducing glare and enhancing contrast. Green lenses are suitable for a wide range of activities and lighting conditions, making them a popular choice for everyday wear. Whether you're strolling through the city or participating in outdoor sports, green lenses offer a comfortable viewing experience.


Yellow/Orange Lenses: Enhancing Depth Perception and Low-Light Visibility

Yellow and orange lenses are particularly valuable in low-light conditions. They increase depth perception and enhance visibility in hazy or overcast weather. These lenses are favoured by athletes, such as cyclists and skiers, who need to navigate changing light conditions. However, they may not be ideal for bright, sunny days, as they can intensify glare.


Rose/Red Lenses: Better Visibility in Overcast Conditions

Rose or red-tinted lenses excel in overcast or low-light settings. They enhance contrast and visual depth, making them useful for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and tennis. While they may slightly alter colour perception, many people find that the benefits in terms of improved visibility outweigh this minor drawback.


Blue Lenses: Fashion-Forward with a Hint of Sun Protection

Blue-tinted lenses are often chosen for their stylish appearance rather than their functional benefits. While they do offer some sun protection, they are not as effective in reducing glare and enhancing visibility as other lens colours. However, if you're aiming for a trendy look and moderate sun protection, blue lenses might be a fun choice for casual outings.

Finding the perfect balance between style and functionality when it comes to buying glasses can be difficult, but it is possible to get the best of both worlds, no matter what your personal needs are! While considering what glasses to take home solely based on their looks is a great approach (as long as they can cater to all your visual needs etc), this can leave you in a position where you can’t decide between several pairs, finding out how the colour of the lenses can alter not only the way a pair of sunglasses look but how they alter your visual perceptions can make or break your decision! 

Whatever style or colour of sunglasses you choose make sure they offer full UV protection.

Ensure your eyes have as much protection as possible and you choose the colour of the lens that best suits your lifestyle… after all, it’s good to see and be seen in your new pair of sunnies! 


Author: John Dreyer Optometrist Bsc(Hons), MCOPTOM, DipCLP
Created: 18 Oct 2023, Last modified: 15 Feb 2024