Mirrored Lens?

Question

what are the pros ands cons of mirrored lens?

thanks

Answer 1

Depends on the actual light absorption of the lens.  Some manufacturers have mirrored lenses that let a lot of light through and some have ones that are only good for bright light.

Answer 2

There's no real "con" as far as I've experienced. The tint under the lens can be the source of issue sometimes. My glacier glasses are mirrored but have a Grey Shade 6 tint...they are really freakin' dark! If it is cloudy or I get in some shade, it can be hard to see the details in the snow. I've had mirror lenses in lighter shades as well...no real problems.

I have scrapped my mirror lenses...on all but the sunniest days...for DriveWear Polarized Transition Lenses. These puppies cost $150...just for the lenses. The frames were another $50. But they are THE BOMB. I suppose if you didn't need a prescription lens they might be cheaper. I see every thing with these. I have almost NO glare, I can wear them all day and they fade to almost clear if I go inside or the night skiing lights come on (yeah...I live in the East). They rock...but you can only get them at an eye doctor.

The "pros" with mirror lenses are they usually reflect more light and MAY reduce UVA and UVB. It depends on the lens quality. Oakley, Smith, Native, Julbo....good brands, good UV protection. The eye flaps you see on glacier glasses also help. Regular mirrored lenses don't cut down on that much UV unless they are wrap-around. If you are wearing Aviators...you'll still have a lot of UV coming in the sides. If the glasses are something you got at the dollar store or quick mart sunglasses rack....bad ju-ju.

The other plus is that the bettys can't see you're staring at their b***s and butts! If you are hanging out at The Beach at A-Basin on Memorial Day weekend....you'll want mirrored lenses!