The eyes are especially susceptible to the sun because of the transparency of the outer tissues. Long-term exposure can speed up ageing of the macula, the most sensitive part of the retina and can also lead to cataracts. Look for sunglasses that meet the European safety standards. This means they will be of good optical quality with break-resistant lenses, providing high levels of protection against ultraviolet light. One of the key functions of sunglasses is to reduce the amount of sunlight entering the eye. Look for a pair offering a light reduction of up to 80%, that is they will allow in only 20% of the sunlight. The size of the lens - the area shielded - affects light admitted.

• Expensive sometimes means better, but not necessarily. What really counts is the degree to which the lenses filter out harmful UV rays. Look for the CE mark, which proves they conform to the European Community Standard. They should also satisfy British Standard BSEN1836, meaning they will provide high levels of protection against damaging ultraviolet light.
• Do not confuse the shade of the lenses with their ability to filter UV rays. Dark sunglasses may still allow UV rays to enter the eye. Sunglasses are marked with a filter category from 0-4, where 4 is the darkest lens. UV protection has nothing to do with lens colour. The best makes will block 100% of UV-A, UV-B and harmful blue light.
• Polarising lenses will reduce reflective glare from water and land surfaces, making them particularly good at improving vision in bright or hazy driving conditions.
• Anti-reflective coatings eliminate glare.
• Photocromic lenses go darker in the sunlight and are good UV absorbers.
• Impact-resistant lenses are essential for a sporty or active lifestyle as they are made from polycarbonate or toughened glass.
• Wraparound styles further protect the eyes by helping to keep out peripheral glare.

evil eye

Innovative technology, uncompromising quality and perfect harmony between design, material and optics: these are the evil eye sport glasses benchmarks. See the difference through top equipment that’s built to elevate your sporting achievements even under the most demanding conditions. MORE.......

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Serengeti Eyewear

One of the secrets to the world’s finest driving glasses is the Serengeti lens. Serengeti® makes two types of lenses, glass and Polar PhD. Both lenses feature Serengeti’s incredible photochromic technology. MORE......

Hygge Solen Prescription Sunglasses

Hygge Solen are offered with plain or prescription lenses.
You can choose from a comprehensive range of lens tints including contrast enhancing, high fashion double colour graduated, mirrored or polarised lenses. MORE......

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Lambda Lens Technology

The colours in Lambda Lens Technology sunglass lenses are fine-tuned to optimise the level of contrast.

Colour Contrast Index – colours for everyday use: The lower-contrast colours create a truly natural colour feel. While the midcontrast colours offer a good balance between contrast and natural colour feel, the high-contrast colours create a warmer colour feel and a high level of contrast.

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Protect your child's eyes from the sun!

There is evidence that too much exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can contribute to the development of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Because children tend to spend a lot of time outdoors, it's important to protect your child's eyes in the sun. Make sure that sunglasses have 100% UV protection and carry the British Standard (BS EN 1836:2005) or CE mark. You can also protect your child's eyes by making sure they wear a hat with a brim or sun visor in bright sunlight.

However, scientific studies have shown that children who spend time outdoors are less likely to be short-sighted, and some eye problems are linked to unhealthy lifestyles. So don't stop your child exercising outdoors - just make sure their eyes are properly protected.

A grey category 3 lens provides excellent and natural perception of surroundings (unlike many category 4 children lenses which can in fact be dangerous as children may not be able to distinguish stop signs while walking or riding their bike.).

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Filter Categories

Filter Category

0
1
2
3
4

Description

Clear or very light
Light Tint
Medium Tint
Dark Tint
Very Dark Tint

Transmittance From

80%
43%
18%
8%
3%

Transmittance To

100%
80%
43%
18%
8%

Suitable for Night Driving?

​Yes
No
No
No
No (or daytime use)

Ultimate vision, optimum protection, customised fit and maximum durability are the key characteristics of quality performance eyewear. Sport, driving or leisure we have the right performance eyewear tailored for you and some of the styles offered include interchangeable lens systems. There are many different features (including prescription lens availability!) to enhance your vision, and if you need further advice our qualified dispensing opticians are always happy to assist.