As the great thaw begins and our thoughts turn to more pleasant weather, orders start to trickle in for prescription sunglasses. As specs become more affordable for all of us (thanks Internet Glasses Company!!) people can afford to have glasses for different occasions, even for our fluctuating weather. The discussion we often have with people is what to do about tinted glasses – a fixed, permanent tint just for sunny days, or a photochromic lens that changes with the levels of sunlight?

The first thing you need to consider is what you will use your glasses for. If you go on lots of holidays in the sunshine, if you ski or work outdoors, then a fixed tint may be the best option for you. It will give full UV protection, and you can choose the level of colour to suit your requirements. If you want full sunspec coverage go for 85% darkness upwards. You can choose a big, bold, sunglass style frame and have plenty of practicality and style.

If you live less of an outdoor life, and like to wear a tinted lens but don’t spend all day outdoors, then a photochromic lens allows you to go in and out without messing around and swapping your glasses over. You still get full UV protection, with the tint changing from about 15% indoors, to 85% in full sun. Only the UV in sunshine changes the lenses, so they won’t be dark inside. You only need one pair of specs for all conditions, and don’t need to carry your clear pair with you.

The downsides? Some people don’t like the fact that photochromics go very dark on cold sunny days, and they always look dark on photographs. If you damage one lens, you’ll need to replace both as the colour balance will alter over time. If you have permanent tints you always need your clear glasses about your person, as it’s illegal to drive in tints at night. So take the time to consider your lifestyle before you place your order, and get set for spring!