Most people know polarized sunglasses reduce the sun’s glare. But Ray-Ban Chromance lenses are designed to do much more.
Instead of just making your vision darker, Chromance lenses improve the quality of your vision. They do so by increasing contrast and making colors look more distinct, on top of reducing glare.
Chromance is one of Ray-Ban’s most advanced lenses, but its technology tends to get a bit overshadowed by the Ray-Ban frames themselves.
So, what’s so special about Chromance? And is it worth choosing them over standard polarized ones? We’re going to get into all the details.
At-a-Glance Summary
This article discusses Ray-Ban Chromance lenses and what makes them stand out. It discusses the tech behind Ray-Ban’s Chromance and what it’s actually like to wear them.
| Key Fact | Details |
| Products reviewed | 5 sunglasses with Chromance lenses |
| Brands featured | Ray-Ban |
| Styles covered | Aviator, Wayfarer, Square, Rectangle |
| Frame materials | Acetate, metal, and mixed materials |
| Prescription compatible | Some models can be fitted with prescription lenses |
| Price range | $133-$220 |
| Who this guide is for | Shoppers looking for Ray-Ban sunglasses with Chromance lenses |
What Are Ray-Ban Chromance Lenses?
Ray-Ban introduced Chromance in 2016 as a premium lens technology that combines three optical features. This includes polarization, contrast-enhancing spectral filters, and a backside anti-reflective (AR) coating.
Polarization
Polarized lenses work by blocking horizontal light. This is what causes intense glare from surfaces like roads, water, snow, and glass.
According to Ray-Ban, Chromance polarized lenses block more than 99% of reflected glare.
Contrast Enhancement
Chromance uses spectral filters that selectively filter and block specific wavelengths of visible light.
In simpler terms, the contrast enhancement makes colors look more distinct from one another. This makes details and textures easier to discern!
Backside Anti-Reflective Coating
Chromance lenses include a multi-layer anti-reflective coating on the side of the lens closest to your eye.
The coating uses multiple super-thin layers to stop reflections off the inside of the lens caused by any light behind you. The same kind of anti-reflective coatings are commonly used on premium prescription lenses.
Simply put, this is how all the Chromance layers work together:
Incoming sunlight
↓
Polarization
Horizontal reflected light is blocked
↓
Contrast Enhancement
Specific wavelengths are selectively filtered
↓
Backside AR Coating
Light reflecting off the back of the lens is minimized
↓
Light reaches your eye, and you see with less glare, clearer colors, and sharper definition.
Glass or Polycarbonate?
A common misconception is that Chromance is a kind of material that Ray-Ban uses in some of its lenses. In reality, “Chromance” is the technology within the lens.
Depending on the frame, Chromance lenses are made from either crystal glass or polycarbonate. Glass tends to provide the clearest optics and resists scratches well. Polycarbonate keeps the lenses lighter and is more resistant to impacts.
For example, classic Ray-Ban frames like the Aviator use glass Chromance lenses. Many newer acetate and injected frames use polycarbonate Chromance.
Can You Get Chromance With Prescription Lenses?
Yes, and we make it especially easy at EZContacts.
Just tick the box where it says “Add Prescription or Custom Lenses.” Then you’ll be able to choose whether you want your Chromance lenses to be:
- Distance
- Reading
- Progressive / Bifocal
- Blue light lenses
After you make your choice, a prescription form will appear where you can fill out your information.
Not every Chromance frame can be fitted with every prescription, but you’ll be able to see if the option exists on the EZContacts product page for the model you decide on.
5 Ray-Ban Chromance Sunglasses We Recommend
Ray-Ban offers Chromance across a wide range of styles. Here are five of our favorites.
1. Ray-Ban RB3025 Aviator Large Metal
The Ray-Ban RB3025 Aviator Large Metal doesn’t need much of an introduction. Originally developed for U.S. military pilots in the 1930s, it’s still one of Ray-Ban’s most recognizable models.
Adding Chromance lenses gives this classic design even more practicality. They’re lightweight, have polarized glare reduction, and enhanced color definition. The Chromance Aviator is great for driving and any kind of outdoor activity.
The teardrop lens shape also gives you good coverage without feeling intentionally oversized, so it’s able to suit a variety of face shapes.
2. Ray-Ban RB0840S Mega Wayfarer
The Ray-Ban RB0840S Mega Wayfarer is one of Ray-Ban’s most famous designs with a contemporary twist. It uses thicker acetate and bolder proportions to give the frame a stronger presence on the face.
The larger frame works great with the Chromance lenses. Along with the benefits you get from the lenses, you also get excellent coverage from the sun.
3. Ray-Ban RB4330CH Chromance
The Ray-Ban RB4330CH Chromance has a rounded square profile that manages to create a balance between sporty and casual. The injected frame keeps it lightweight, and the slightly wrapped front gives you more coverage than a traditional square pair of sunglasses.
4. Ray-Ban RB4264
Ray-Ban RB4264 combines a rounded square front with a lightweight injected frame, giving it a softer look than a lot of Ray-Ban’s angular styles. It’s an easy, casual design that suits a range of face shapes.
5. Ray-Ban RB3701
The Ray-Ban RB3701 looks similar to the classic Ray-Ban Navigator shape, but with a slimmed-down profile. The full-metal frame keeps things understated. This makes it a good option if you like the look of an Aviator but want something more modern.
FAQs
Are Ray-Ban sunglasses UV protected?
Yes, Ray-Ban sunglasses feature UV400 protection. They block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Do Chromance lenses scratch easily?
The Chromance lenses don’t typically scratch easily. They feature an anti-scratch coating for added durability.
However, they’re not completely scratch-proof. To help prevent scratches, clean them with a microfiber cloth, and be sure to keep them in their case when not in use.
TL;DR
- Ray-Ban introduced Chromance in 2016 as its most advanced lens technology. It combines polarization, contrast enhancement, and a backside anti-reflective coating.
- Chromance is designed to make colors look more distinct and improve contrast. This helps details stand out.
- Polarized Chromance lenses block more than 99% of glare. This makes them useful for driving, time spent on the water, and any kind of outdoor activity.
- Depending on the model, Chromance lenses are available in either polycarbonate or crystal glass. This lets you choose between lighter weight and maximum optical clarity.
- Lots of Ray-Ban Chromance sunglasses are prescription-compatible. You can order prescription Chromance glasses with ease on EZContacts.
