Lens colour changes how the world looks through your sunglasses. It affects brightness, contrast and colour accuracy, though not UV protection, which comes from the lens itself. Here is how to pick a tint for the way you spend time outside.
Light changes with the seasons
Summer brings intense sun and glare, autumn brings low, direct light, and winter brings snow reflection and dim days. The right tint depends on the light you'll be in most.
Grey: everyday and the beach
Grey lenses cut brightness evenly and keep colours true. They are a great all-rounder for town, the park and the beach, where they tame bright light off water and sand.
Green: outdoor days
Green lenses reduce glare while keeping good contrast and natural colour, which makes them pleasant for hiking, picnics and playgrounds.
Brown and amber: sport and changing light
Brown and amber lenses boost contrast and depth perception. That helps in sports like golf, cycling and tennis, and on days with patchy cloud.
Yellow and orange: low light
Yellow and orange tints let more light through and sharpen contrast in overcast or flat light. They aren't dark enough for bright sun, and very light tints aren't suitable for driving at night.
Blue and other fashion tints
Blue, pink and purple tints are mostly about style. They can be fun and comfortable in moderate sun; just make sure they still have 100% UV protection.
Mirrored lenses
Mirror coatings reflect extra light away, which helps in very bright conditions like snow and open water. They scratch more easily, so rinse before wiping.
For snow days
Fresh snow reflects a lot of UV and glare. Dark grey or mirrored lenses work well on bright days; amber or rose tints help on flat, overcast days.
The bottom line
Choose the tint for your activity, then check the essentials: polarized lenses to cut glare and 100% UVA/UVB protection whatever the colour.
