Transition Lenses vs. Sunglasses: The Pros and Cons

Are you wondering if you should purchase transition lenses or sunglasses this summer? With all the available eyewear options, it can be difficult to choose the best lens for your needs. In this article, we’ll go through the pros and cons of traditional and regular sunglasses so that you can make an informed decision.

All About Traditional Sunglasses

When you think about going outside in the sun and protecting your eyes, you probably first think of standard sunglasses. They protect your eyes against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and help prevent glare so that you can see clearly. When choosing a pair of sunglasses, you should always pick ones that offer 100 percent protection against UVA and UVB rays. Secondly, it’s important to make sure the lenses completely cover your eyes. This can mean picking a pair with a larger lens size. Lastly, choose the right lens tint. Lenses with gray tints offer the best depth perception with the least amount of color distortion, but amber or slightly yellow-tinted lenses offer the best view in lower lighting situations.

Pros of Traditional Sunglasses

• You can control the darkness of the lenses by choosing the lens tint that works for you.
• There is no waiting for the lenses to adjust to new lighting levels.
• Sunglasses can be purchased with vision correction.
• Traditional sunglasses are less expensive than transitional lenses.

Cons of Traditional Sunglasses

• The lens tint is static, meaning it doesn't adjust to multiple lighting conditions.
• You have to take them off and put them on each time you enter and exit a building.
• If you wear prescription glasses, you’ll have to switch your regular glasses for your sunglasses each time you go outside. (This is not a problem for people who wear contact lenses.)

All About Trendy Transition Lenses

Transition lenses are a newer and more advanced product than traditional sunglasses. So rather than having to put on and take off your sunglasses all day while you shop, enjoy the sites, or spend time in your own backyard, you can leave your trendy transitional lenses on your face. This is because the lenses automatically adjust to various lighting levels, hence the name “transition.” Transitional lenses can also be purchased with or without vision correction.

Pros of Designer Transition Lenses

• Transitional lenses can be worn indoors and outdoors, which means you do not have to take them off.
• Transitional lenses can be purchased with vision correction.
• There is less risk that you’ll lose your glasses.
• They are effective at filtering out UVA and UVB rays.
• You can buy trendy and designer frames to go with your new transitional lenses.

Cons of Designer Transition Lenses

• It can take a few seconds for the lenses to adjust to a new lighting level, especially in cold weather.
• They are slightly more expensive than traditional sunglasses.
• The lenses may not darken enough while driving due to the UV blocking properties of your windshield.
• Transitional lenses may not be polarized, which means an increase in glare.

Making a Decision: Are Transition Lenses as Good as Sunglasses?

When it comes to choosing the right type of eye protection this summer, it depends on your specific needs. If you wear contacts, a basic pair of sunglasses may be right for you. If you wear glasses, you may want to consider transitional lenses so that you can reduce your risk of losing your sunglasses and keep your eyes protected in multiple lighting conditions.

To learn more about the benefits of transitional lenses and to choose the right designer transition lenses for you, check out our sunglasses and lens options today. Have questions? Fill out our convenient form, or email us at [email protected].