When it comes to choosing sports eyewear, the lens colour is an important consideration. We have covered this subject before but it is always worth returning to. The following is a general guide to the most common eyewear lens colours and the benefits of using them.
Grey Lenses
Grey lenses are the most widely used lens colour and reduce/dull light. They reduce brightness without altering contrast. Best for bright sun/bright light conditions. Extensively used in most outdoor sports, and leisure style sunglasses. Most grey lenses are rated Category 3.
Smoke Lenses
Smoke lenses are similar to grey but usually have a blue, amber or brown hue. It is frequently used as the base colour when a mirror finish is applied to the lens. Like grey lenses, they are used for strong sun conditions. Most smoke lenses are rated Category 3.
Green / G15 Lenses
The Green G15 lens was first popularised by Ray-Ban and used by pilots in their classic aviator sunglasses. It provides a soothing tone, helps cut glare and enhances contrast. A good alternative to grey lenses and suited to bright sun conditions. Most are rated Category 3.
Amber, Brown & Light Brown Lenses
Brown, light brown and amber lenses are good all-round colours for many light conditions including variable conditions. They increase contrast and sharpen the field of vision. This makes them popular eyewear lens colours for golf, clay target shooting and skiing. Most are rated Category 2 or 3.
Yellow Lenses
Yellow lenses are high contrast lenses ideal for boosting contrast in low/poor light, low visibility, and cloudy conditions. Not suitable for bright, sunny conditions. Popular with clay target and game shooting enthusiasts and cyclists. They are typically rated either Category 0 or Category 1.
Red, Rose & Orange Lenses
Rose, red and orange lenses are high-definition, high contrast lens colours making them suited to enhancing contrast in overcast conditions. These colours filter out blue light which means the field of vision will appear in sharper focus. Good colours for use at the end of the day when eyes are tired. Popular for shooting, cycling, skiing and golfing eyewear. Most are rated Category 1 or 2.
Purple Lenses
Purple lenses are a popular all-weather option suited to most light conditions. Known as ‘the background neutraliser’ purple lenses dull a green background. Purple has a soothing tone making it ideal for extended wear comfort. Now one of the most popular lens colours for shooting eyewear and rapidly gaining popularity amongst golfers. Most are rated Category 2.
Blue & Turquoise Lenses
Blue and turquoise lens colours can help accentuate gold and yellow colours, making them popular for archery (gold bull) and tennis players (yellow ball). Most are rated either Category 1 or 2.
Clear Lenses
Clear lenses provide essential eye protection from impact, dust, dirt, insects or abrasion. Widely used for shooting, airsoft BB, equestrian, cycling and floodlit sports. Clear lenses are rated Category 0. View our range of safety eyewear.