Lens Materials

SPECTACLE LENS MATERIALS

Hundreds of years have passed since spectacle lenses were first widely used. Today, a broad array of lens coatings and filters can be applied to protect your eyes from potentially dangerous conditions, such as ultraviolet light emitted from the sun. The modern, plastic-lens eyeglasses described here are thin, lightweight and use high-tech coatings to make them more durable than ever before. Depending on how you use your eyes, there are solutions that can be customized to your lifestyle. We’ve taken the time to outline the various lens materials available on the market today.

1. CR-39:

• First introduced after WWII. Used to be very widespread.
• Less used now, but still common.
• Newer, more durable, lightweight options offer benefits.
• Rosin Rating: 3/5 – Average

2. Polycarbonate Lenses.

• Designed originally for cockpit canopies and astronaut helmets.
• Lighter, more durable, and impact resistant.
• Good for sports or working environments with projectile hazards.
• Inherent UV protection.
• Rosin Rating: 5/5 – Fantastic!

3. High Index Lenses.

• Thinner and lighter because they are very efficient at refracting light.
• Higher prescriptions can have thinner lenses.
• Technologically advanced and made out of the latest materials.
• A bit less durable and impact resistant than polycarbonate lenses
• Rosin Rating: 5/5 on comfort, thinness, weight, and visual appeal, 4/5 on impact resistance (polycarbonate is still better in that regard).

Lenses of all types can also be treated with coatings to make them scratch resistant and more UV protective, among other options. Be sure to go over your options with our experts to decide on the best material and coating options for you.