What are different lens colours for?
11th Feb 2025
A question we’re often asked (especially at exhibitions) is what are the different lens colours for – what do they do? So, here’s a quick overview of lens colours and their uses.
Grey – the most popular, widely used colour, it reduces/dulls light and does not increase contrast. Used in bright sun/bright light conditions.
Brown – the second most popular colour, it’s equally good for strong sun but gives a “warm” field of view and will add contrast.
G15/Green – the colour originally created by RayBan for their first iconic pilot aviator style sunglasses. Good alternative to grey and adds contrast.
Amber, Vermillion & Light Brown – good all-round colours for most light including variable conditions and they also add contrast.
Yellow – ideal for low/poor light, low visibility, and cloudy conditions or darker conditions like riding in shaded/wooded areas. Can be used for driving in low light (twilight) and under street lights but not recommended for driving when there is no light.
Clear – For protecting eyes from impact, grit/dust, dirt or abrasion.
Red, Rose & Orange – High-definition, higher contrast lens colours suited to overcast conditions. These colours filter out blue light which means the field of vision will appear in “sharper” focus. Good when eyes are tired. Popular for shooting, cycling, skiing and golf.
Purple – Great all-round colour for most light conditions, it gives a ‘soothing’ tone making it ideal for extended wear comfort. Very popular with clay target shooters and gaining a following with golfers.
Grey – the most popular, widely used colour, it reduces/dulls light and does not increase contrast. Used in bright sun/bright light conditions.
Brown – the second most popular colour, it’s equally good for strong sun but gives a “warm” field of view and will add contrast.
G15/Green – the colour originally created by RayBan for their first iconic pilot aviator style sunglasses. Good alternative to grey and adds contrast.
Amber, Vermillion & Light Brown – good all-round colours for most light including variable conditions and they also add contrast.
Yellow – ideal for low/poor light, low visibility, and cloudy conditions or darker conditions like riding in shaded/wooded areas. Can be used for driving in low light (twilight) and under street lights but not recommended for driving when there is no light.
Clear – For protecting eyes from impact, grit/dust, dirt or abrasion.
Red, Rose & Orange – High-definition, higher contrast lens colours suited to overcast conditions. These colours filter out blue light which means the field of vision will appear in “sharper” focus. Good when eyes are tired. Popular for shooting, cycling, skiing and golf.
Purple – Great all-round colour for most light conditions, it gives a ‘soothing’ tone making it ideal for extended wear comfort. Very popular with clay target shooters and gaining a following with golfers.