Photochromic glasses - What are they for and the 6 best models?

Imagine a pair of glasses that magically adjusts to just the right amount of light in any situation. Whether under the glare of the sun on a summer day, in an indoor artificial light environment or during the golden sunset, photochromic eyewear automatically adapts to provide clear, comfortable vision.

Enter the world of smart glasses, an innovation that goes beyond fashion. At Bassol Optics we will explore their amazing utility in visual protection and comfort. These glasses not only add style to your appearance, but also act as a shield against harmful UV rays, keeping your eyes safe at all times. Read on!

What are photochromic glasses and how do they work?

Photochromic eyewear is a revolutionary breakthrough in lens technology that combines style and functionality to enhance your visual experience. Light-reactive lenses are designed to automatically adapt to different lighting conditions, offering comfort and protection in one product.

The technology behind these glasses is fascinating and highly functional. These light-reactive lenses contain tiny molecules that react to exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This triggers a process that causes them to gradually darken when exposed to direct sunlight.

When you are in a lower light intensity environment, such as indoors or on cloudy days, the molecules readapt and the lenses become clearer. This makes photochromic eyewear versatile, because it keeps your vision clear no matter where you are, whether you're enjoying outdoor activities, working or just walking around town.

Benefits of photochromic eyewear

This type of eyewear offers a range of remarkable advantages. Their ability to automatically adapt to different environments makes them a smart choice for those who value comfort and visual performance. Some of the most prominent benefits of photochromic eyewear include:

• Light adaptability: these glasses are able to adjust to ambient light. This means you won't have to switch between prescription and sunglasses depending on where you are. Whether indoors in artificial lighting or outdoors in bright sunlight, the lenses will darken or brighten.

• Comfort and convenience: By eliminating the need to wear multiple pairs of glasses, photochromics simplify your life and give you the freedom to move between indoors and outdoors without interruption. Whether it's work, sports or daily activities, enjoy clear, comfortable vision anywhere.

• Effective sun protection: Beyond their comfort, photochromic glasses are a vital ally in eye protection. They block up to 100% of the sun's UVA and UVB rays, preventing long-term damage to your eyes from excessive exposure to sunlight. They also offer better definition of visual contrasts, which contributes to clearer vision.

The 6 best models of photochromic glasses on the market

At Bassol Optics, we present you with an exclusive selection of the 6 best models of photochromic glasses available on the market. Get ready to explore a range of glasses that will not only improve your vision, but also enhance your personal style:

1. Oliver Peoples OV5450SU MARTINEAUX 14735D 49

These glasses masterfully fuse retro elegance and contemporary design. With their keyhole bridge and bold frame, they capture the essence of the past reimagined.

Crafted with precision craftsmanship in Italy from acetate, these glasses stand out for their genuine details, variety of colors - green, light havana, dark havana, cream white, brown and black - and photochromic lenses.

2. Etnia Barcelona BRERA SUN GDBK 58

These glasses are made with high quality metal and feature an iconic aviator shape, a 16mm bridge and 145mm temples. With photochromic lenses, these glasses offer clear and comfortable vision. Available in a range of colors, including gold and black, you can express your personal style with whichever you choose.

In addition to their unmistakable style, Etnia Barcelona BRERA photochromic glasses stand out for their ability to enhance a variety of face shapes. With their classic aviator design, they are especially flattering for faces with angular or square features, providing softness and harmony.

Their metal construction not only adds sophistication, but also ensures exceptional durability.

3. Versace VE2256 1002P5 60

Crafted with meticulous craftsmanship in high quality metal, these glasses feature luxury and fashion in every detail. With a 60mm gauge, 14mm bridge and 140mm temples, they gracefully adapt to various facial proportions.

They offer clear vision in any environment because they adjust to changing light conditions. Available in a subtle gold tone.

4. Roberto Cavalli SRC022 400F 58

This photochromic eyewear model captivates with its vibrant yellow color and square shape, epitomizing elegance in every detail. They feature a metal frame that hugs the lenses at the top and bottom edges, so they have a minimalist and modern look. Their photochromic lenses come in a seductive pink shade.

This bold combination of design and performance is reflected in every aspect of these photochromic glasses, from their square shape to their ability to adapt to different light levels. They are a statement of modern style and distinction and reaffirm Roberto Cavalli's unique vision in the world of fashion.

5. Saint Laurent SL 564 008 49

The Saint Laurent SL exudes elegance and versatility with its square shape and iconic details. They are available in a variety of frame colors. You can get them in black, havana and green. With this model, the brand offers lenses in black, green, gray and clear, so you can choose the ones that best suit your style and preferences.

With a 49 mm gauge, 20 mm bridge and 145 mm temples, these glasses fit comfortably on your face and complement a wide variety of facial proportions.

The unisex wayfarer-style design in acetate brings a vintage touch that highlights Saint Laurent's signature boldness. Iconic metal corner accents add distinction, while the rectangular design with a sleek new flat temple pattern makes them contemporary.

The laser-engraved Saint Laurent logo on both temples is a seal of authenticity and quality. If you want to combine these glasses, you can do it in the best Saint Laurent style with an amazing Saint Laurent outfit.

6. Evil Eye Trace Pro L 6600

A distinctive feature of this photochromic eyewear model is its removable sweat shield, which keeps your eyes free from distractions while you push yourself to the max.

With a selection of frame colors ranging from gray, red, blue, dark green, black and matte black, these goggles offer a combination of style and function. The lenses provide clear vision in any environment and are available in gray, silver, blue and lilac.

Their panoramic shape covers a wide field of vision, making them ideal for high-intensity sports. In addition, their optimal ventilation system ensures comfort and prevents lens fogging, even during the most intense moments of physical activity.

Factors to consider when choosing photochromic glasses

Choosing the right photochromic eyewear goes beyond style; it's a decision that directly impacts your vision and comfort. Consider these factors to make sure you're choosing the ones that perfectly suit your needs:

• Adaptable even on cloudy days: While you may think that photochromic glasses only darken in the presence of bright sun, it's important to know that they can also react to high levels of UV on cloudy days. This versatility ensures consistent protection regardless of weather conditions.

• Transition speed: The speed at which lenses transition from dark to clear and vice versa varies by brand and model. When choosing, consider that the darkening or lightening interval can last anywhere from 30 to 90 seconds. This influences how quickly your eyewear will adjust to light changes, which can be especially relevant in dynamic situations.

• Sun filter and UV protection: Pay special attention to the sun filter offered by each pair of glasses. This is specified according to the percentage of UV rays they allow to pass through. The different filter grades include:

• Grade 0: Clearer, with 80-100% transmission.

• Grade 1: 80-43% transmission.

• Grade 2: 43-18% transmission.

• Grade 3: 18-8% transmission.

• Grade 4: Darker, allowing only 8-3% transmission.

• Specific use: While grade 4 is ideal for high mountain activities such as mountaineering due to its extreme darkness, it is important to note that it is not suitable for driving vehicles. It is also essential to select glasses that match your regular activities to ensure maximum safety and comfort.

• Sports activities: If you are a cycling enthusiast, keep in mind that photochromic glasses with filters 1-3 or 2-3 are popular choices. Filter 1 offers greater transparency in its clearest state, which can be especially useful when cycling in different lighting conditions.

Care and maintenance of photochromic glasses.

Proper care is essential to keeping your photochromic glasses in top condition. Here are some tips to ensure their durability and continued performance:

• Clean the lenses regularly with a soft microfiber cloth to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage photochromic coatings.

• Storing your glasses in a sturdy case helps prevent scratches and damage when you're not wearing them. Make sure the case is clean and free of particles that can scratch the lenses.

• Do not expose your eyewear to extremely high or low temperatures, as this may affect the coatings and photochromic functionality.

• Also clean the bridge and temples regularly, as these areas also accumulate dirt and natural oils.

• Putting your glasses on with the lenses touching the surfaces could damage them. Always put them on with the lenses facing up.

Incorporate photochromic glasses into your daily routine.

At Bassol Optics we know that incorporating these glasses into your daily routine will bring improvements in your visual health and expression of your personal style. Here are some of the times when smart glasses will elevate your visual experience and become an integral part of your day-to-day:

• Outdoors: wear them when you're outdoors to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. From a stroll around town to sporting activities, photochromic glasses will adapt to changing light conditions.

• Driving: If you opt for photochromic lenses that are not too dark, they are ideal for driving, as they lighten when you enter shaded areas or when night falls.

• Indoors in sunlight: Even indoors in direct sunlight, your glasses will still adjust and provide visual comfort without the need to switch to another pair.

• Smooth transitions: Enjoy smooth lighting transitions as you move from indoors to outdoors without the hassle of changing glasses.

If you're ready to incorporate the innovation of photochromic eyewear into your daily life, Bassol Optics is your ideal destination. Our branches offer you a wide selection of models that will suit your style. In addition, we make your experience easier by offering you the option of an appointment to ensure personalized and efficient service.

You can also take advantage of the benefits of shopping online. We offer free shipping so you can have your glasses delivered directly to the comfort of your home. If you need to make exchanges or returns, our friendly and professional staff will be ready to assist you every step of the way.

Visit Bassol Optics and discover how eyewear can transform your vision and enhance your unique style - see the world with clarity and elegance!