Polarised. UV400. Anti-reflective. Sunglass lenses come with a lot of labels. Here's what each one actually means — and what to look for.
UV protection comes first
This is the one that matters for your eye health. UV400 means the lens blocks all light up to 400 nanometres — effectively 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Every pair of Lavunett sunglasses is UV400, whatever the style. Tint darkness is not the same as UV protection: a dark lens with no UV filter is worse than no sunglasses at all, because it opens your pupils and lets more UV in.
What polarised means
Polarised lenses have a filter that cuts glare — the harsh, bouncing light that comes off water, roads, snow and car bonnets. The result is sharper contrast, less squinting and far more comfortable vision in bright conditions. If you drive, spend time near water, or are simply sensitive to glare, polarised is worth it.
Anti-reflective coatings
An anti-reflective (AR) coating on the back of the lens stops light bouncing into your eye from behind — useful when the sun is behind you. It also cuts distracting reflections on the lens surface.
Which should you choose?
- Everyday wear: UV400 is essential; polarisation is a bonus you'll appreciate.
- Driving, water, snow: Go polarised — the glare reduction is a genuine difference.
- Style first: You never have to compromise — our frames are UV400 and polarised as standard.
Shop all sunglasses, or browse by shape — round, square, aviator, cat-eye and geometric. Designed in France, €49, buy one get one free.
FAQ
Is polarised better than UV400? They do different jobs. UV400 protects your eyes from UV; polarisation cuts glare. The best sunglasses have both.
Do all sunglasses block UV? No — only those rated UV400 (or "100% UV protection"). Always check the label. Every Lavunett pair is UV400.