Why VANDA uses CR-39 lenses
Lens material has a direct impact on clarity, comfort and how a pair of sunglasses performs over time.
For VANDA, choosing CR-39 was deliberate. It offers a strong balance of optical quality, lightweight comfort and everyday durability without adding unnecessary complexity.
What is CR-39?
CR-39 is a lightweight optical resin widely used in quality eyewear. It became well known because it could provide clear vision at a lower weight than traditional glass lenses. Today, it remains a trusted material for both prescription and non-prescription eyewear.
Its strength is not one dramatic feature. It is the balance it provides across several areas that matter in daily use.
One of the main reasons we use CR-39 is its optical clarity. A sunglass lens should reduce brightness without making the view feel distorted or unnatural. CR-39 performs well in this area, providing a clean and consistent visual experience across the lens.
This is particularly important with larger sunglass lenses, where any unwanted distortion can become more noticeable toward the edges.
Lightweight enough for everyday wear
Glass lenses can offer strong optical performance, but they are considerably heavier.
CR-39 provides clarity without placing the same weight across the bridge of the nose and behind the ears. That makes it better suited to sunglasses designed to be worn for long periods, whether driving, travelling or spending the day outdoors.
The lens works alongside the frame rather than making the sunglasses feel unnecessarily heavy.
Why not simply use the cheapest material?
There are lighter and less expensive lens materials available, but the lowest weight or cost does not automatically produce the best overall lens.
Some materials prioritise impact resistance or low production cost. Others can be more difficult to coat or may not provide the same optical experience.
Our choice is based on balance. CR-39 gives VANDA the clarity, weight and finish we want for premium everyday sunglasses.
Polarised and non-polarised options
CR-39 can be used for both polarised and non-polarised lenses.
The material remains the same, while the lens construction changes according to the intended use.
Polarised lenses reduce reflected glare from surfaces such as roads, water and glass. Non-polarised lenses provide a more conventional tinted view and can be better suited to environments involving certain digital displays.
Neither option is treated as the lesser lens. Both begin with the same focus on clarity and comfort.
The complete VANDA lens
Material is only one part of a finished lens.
Current VANDA lenses also include:
- UV400 protection
- Category 3 tinting
- scratch resistance
- hydrophobic and oleophobic surface treatments
- polarised and non-polarised options
Each feature performs a different role. CR-39 provides the optical foundation, while the tint, protection and coatings shape the final experience.
