Got a dynamic lifestyle that requires you to move in and outside regularly? Or are you simply tired of carrying two pairs of glasses with you wherever you go? You’re probably in the market for a pair of transition glasses! Transition lenses offer glasses wearers an amazing amount of lifestyle flexibility and mobility, meaning you can easily move from indoor settings to the high brightness of a sunny day with just one pair of specs.
However, not all transitions are created equally. The technology has only been on the market for around 30 years, so there are plenty of companies that haven’t quite perfected the formula yet. This blog will give insights into what you should look for in a good pair of transition spectacles. Keep reading and you should be more than capable of checking descriptions and consulting with your optician about the features you need.
Proper UV protection
UV protection is the name of the game when it comes to regular glasses and sunglasses, so it has to be an important factor when choosing transition glasses. UVA and UVB rays can both contribute to cataracts and other conditions, so you should make sure that your transitions offer protection whether in the light or dark.
Photochromic efficacy
Photochromic transitions have a responsibility to perform, which is generally measured by 5 major elements of efficacy.
- The speed at which they respond to darkness or outdoor sunlight is essential to their functionality. Better glasses will transition faster.
- How dark the lenses go when confronted by different levels of sunlight. Are they just a bit shaded or do they offer sunglasses-level darkness.
- Temperature sensitivity is important to consider, as a weaker transition lens can start to malfunction or slow down if exposed to too much heat or cold.
- Whether or not the lenses operate properly behind car windshields, as sometimes the UV dilution can interfere with the performance of transitions.
- And finally, transition glasses obviously need to offer the right level of visual clarity, much like any other pair of glasses.
These are the aspects of photochromic performance that you need to investigate with any pair of transition spectacles.
Adaptability with frames & style
The right brands of lenses will be adaptable with a wide range of frames, ensuring you can enjoy the functionality within your existing sense of style. Whatever your face shape or sensibility, you should be able to transition smoothly between indoor and outdoor settings with ease.
Another element that you can consider is that some transition lens options come in a range of different shades and colours. This offers further mobility for wearers looking to express themselves within their sense of style.
Options for additional coatings
Like any other lenses, providers of transition glasses should offer the option to receive additional coatings, such as:
- Anti-Reflective (AR) and Multi-Anti-Reflective (MAR) coatings for reduced glare on the front and back of the lenses.
- Scratch-resistant coatings to improve durability and prevent abrasions.
- Blue-light filtering coatings to reduce the strain and macular degeneration impacts of screen time.
- Hydrophobic/oleophobic coatings that repel water and oil, making lenses much smoother and easier to clean.
Some suppliers will offer these coatings in your initial purchase, saving you time and effort when buying.
Reputable manufacturers & suppliers
Wherever you choose to buy your transition glasses from, you should look for a supplier that offers lenses from the best manufacturers on the market. Companies like Essilor are known for making excellent transition lenses, amongst many others. Make sure to seek out suppliers that collaborate with the best manufacturers to ensure that you can enjoy all of these positive features with every purchase.
Start searching today with your new arsenal of essentials!
