Aviator Sunglass Lens Color Guide

Aviator sunglass lenses come in an endless array of colors and tints. One may think that picking the right color is purely a matter of preference. Well, it is that in part, but also more. There is science behind lens color that is useful to understand, and that can potentially help you from making the wrong choice that would take away from the benefit - and joy - sunglasses offer. To help you along, we list here common lens colors (though by no means all) and the notable features associated with each color.

Gray - As merely a tonality of black, the main characteristic of gray lenses is that it generally dampen brightness, without distorting any other aspect of sight such as color and depth perception. All colors are perceived naturally - just more subdued - and depth is "read" the same way. As a generaly, non-distorting lense type, this color is adaptable to a wide array of activities.

Green - Green lenses are similar to gray lenses in functionality. They keep colors true, and they will maintain (or slightly enhance) depth perception.

Dark Amber and Brown - Dark amber and brown lenses are good at blocking out blue lights (i.e., the sky and other bluish background colors) and therefore enhance contrasts of objects and thereby improve depth perception. Because they improve contrasts between the shades of different objects, they function well in hazy or foggy conditions. That makes these lenses particularly suitable for fishing, other water sports, golf, cycling, and other similar activities.

Yellow - Yellow lenses, besides looking funky and fun, do great jobs of increasing depth perception and are great for skiing, and other snow activities. As yellow is already a bright-ish color, these lenses are not as great in subduing bright light, so should not be chosen if subduing light intensity is your primary aim. As a colored lens, they do distort colors. You would likely want to test a pair of these before deciding to purchase.

Light Amber or Rose - Light amber or rose lenses add a bit of "brightness" to what you perceive. Like brown lenses, they work well in hazier, low-light conditions. These lenses are good at offsetting objects against green-ish backgrounds making them great in forests or where there is a general green backdrop. As such, these are ideal for hunting, driving, cycling, skiing, etc.

Aviator sunglasses come in all of these colors, and even more. Take a look at our site to find just that pair (or two!) that are right for you.