Sun Protection Index: Understand for Optimal Protection Since 1995, a European Union directive requires sunglasses to have a CE marking and a protection index (0 to 4) guaranteeing UV (UVA + UVB) filtering. These indices have nothing to do with those of sunscreens: they express the quantity of visible light transmitted by the lenses, in addition to UV protection. Also remember that the UV index (weather) measures the intensity of ambient solar radiation: the higher it is, the more rigorous eye protection must be. What are the different sun protection indices? Index 0 (category 0) Transmission: 81 % to 100 %. Minimal visual comfort (aesthetic, indoor, cloudy weather). Avoid in direct sunlight. Index 1 (category 1) Transmission: 43 % to 80 %. For low light (overcast sky, winter). Not suitable for strong sunlight. Index 2 (category 2) Transmission: 18 % to 43 %. Ideal for medium light with little glare. Index 3 (category 3) Transmission: 8 % to 18 %. The most versatile: sea and mountains in strong sunlight. 100 % UV blocked with CE compliant lenses. Index 4 (category 4) Transmission: 3 % to 8 %. For extreme light (high mountains, glaciers). Prohibited for driving (insufficient visibility in tunnels/shade). How to choose the index for your sunglasses? - Index & UV : the index indicates the quantity of visible light transmitted; UV protection (UVA/UVB) depends on the material and filters. Lightly tinted lenses can block 100 % of UV, but remain in category 0/1.
- Tint : the color (grey, brown, green…) influences comfort and contrast, not UV blocking.
- Material : polycarbonate naturally blocks UV; acetate, organic/mineral lenses use specific filters.
Lens colors: what use? - Grey : color fidelity, driving/city.
- Brown : increased contrast, mountains, walking, running.
- Green : good balance of colors/contrasts, golf/tennis.
- Yellow/orange : brightness, relief, low light, mountain biking.
Phototype & protection level Light skin/eyes (phototypes 1–2) : prefer categories 3 (sunny daily use) and 4 (intense) to block 100 % UV and more than 82 % of visible light. Darker phototypes are also exposed to UV: no eye is 'immune'. Updated on — Editorial : Visionet. |
