Different Types of Ray-Ban Replacement Lenses & Their Benefits

Ray-Ban sunglasses are known for their superior optics. They guarantee clear vision, comfort, durability and 100% UVA/UVB protection. This is why Ray-Ban has been a leader in the sunglass market since 1937.

However, despite the focus on quality design, even Ray-Ban sunglasses aren’t immune to lens damage. Scratches can easily occur despite how careful you are when handling your pair. And then, there’s also the fact that lenses need to be replaced after a period of heavy use since the UV coating depletes the more it’s exposed to the sun. That being said, when the lenses can no longer do their job to protect your eyes and provide clear vision, replacing them is the best solution.

Getting a lens replacement is more affordable than buying a completely new pair of shades. There are two types of materials from which Ray Ban replacement lenses are made, and those are crystal and plastic. The crystal lenses provide the best clarity and best homogeneity, while the plastic lenses have the advantage of being much lighter. So, consider this when shopping for Ray Ban replacement lenses.

But this isn’t the only factor to keep in mind. To choose the best option for you, you should also be well acquainted with the different types of Ray-Ban lenses. Ray-Ban sunglasses can be fitted with a wide range of lens options from solid lenses to gradients, mirrors, polarized lenses, and the most innovative lens technology – Chromance. Let’s explore these types of lenses in more detail.

Solid Lenses

Solid lenses, or also known as the classic Ray-Ban lenses, are developed in such a way that they deliver a high level of clarity, comfort and UV protection. They absorb up to 85% of visible light, block most of the harmful blue light and provide natural vision, meaning they don’t alter the colours you see around.

G-15 is considered to be the original Ray-Ban solid lens. It was originally created for military use, to help American pilots while flying at high altitudes. The “G” in the name stands for green – its iconic green/grey lens colour. These lenses allow only 15% of the visible light to pass through them, and this is what “15” in the name stands for. Hence, this is why these Ray-Ban lenses are a great choice for bright sunny days and for those with sensitive eyes (photophobia).

B-15 is another good model of solid lenses, where “B” stands for brown. They have the same features as the G-15, with the difference that they are better suited for lower light conditions and provide greater contrast. Therefore, they’re ideal for cloudy days.

However, if you don’t want to be limited by the weather, you can go for the Ray-Ban Blue lenses which are appropriate in all light conditions. They also allow you to see the natural colours of the surrounding environment and reduce eye strain.

Gradient Lenses

Ray-Ban Gradient lenses are characterised by their perfect transition from a solid colour to a transparent shade of the same colour. They are available in crystal and polycarbonate materials, and therefore they’re good for low to medium light conditions.

Crystal Gradient lenses are tinted on the backside using high vacuum processes and this, in turn, allows smooth colour transitions. Ray-Ban Gradient plastic lenses, on the other hand, achieve the transition in shading from dark to light due to a precise chemical immersion process. There is an infinite amount of colour options for both of these types of gradient lenses.

There are Blue Gradient lenses, which are regarded to be the ultimate cross between function and fashion. They are a good choice for the road since the transitioning to a more transparent shade makes it easier for you to read your car dashboard, and your eyes won’t experience any strain or blurring.

Grey Gradient lenses are a model of lenses which capture natural vision while decreasing brightness, and they are a good choice for low light to medium conditions. There is also a Gradient model with brown lenses perfectly functional in all light conditions. More precisely, these are lenses that increase contrast where it is needed and transition to a clearer tone, allowing you to read with ease.

Mirror Lenses

Mirror lenses act like a one-way mirror, they are reflective and completely shield your eyes. These Ray-Ban sunglass lenses are perfect for the sunniest days because they provide utmost light protection. They appear in a diverse range of colours and neutral tones and this is the reason why they are one of the most expensive lenses available on the market.

The Blue Mirror lenses deliver a highly saturated burst of colour and are perfect for those who want to make a statement with their eyewear. They draw attention and can complement your retro outfit.

Silver Mirror lenses are somewhere between classic and a playful style. If you want to add a sophisticated touch to a formal outfit, you can also opt for the Ray-Ban Copper Mirror or Orange Mirror lenses.

Polarized Lenses

The main feature of Ray-Ban polarized lenses is that they block more 99% of the reflected lights. They have a special film that helps them reduce glare, i.e. reflect light and eliminate annoying reflections from the road, windshields and water. They not only reduce reflections, but they also enhance contrast, improving the clarity of vision. Plus, they reduce eye strain and squinting, thus leaving your eyes feeling more rested and relaxed.

Polarization is the most practical and useful for people who do a lot of sunny highway driving, skiing, hiking and mountaineering in snowy areas, daytime fishing, etc. Hence, it’s pretty understandable why these lenses usually cost more than unpolarized ones. You will easily recognize which lenses are polarized by the small P that they have on the logo.

Chromance Lenses

Ray-Ban Chromance lenses are the newest and most innovative lens technology of this brand. They boost the tone of the colours, enhance contrast and by this improve clarity. As a result, they are perfect for those who love to experience the surrounding colours better. The Ray-Ban Chromance lenses are all polarized. Unfortunately, they are only available for Chromance frames.