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Hi Can someone please break down the difference in lens technologies/uses

DJNich

Oakley Beginner
Hey guys, I was hoping to get some clarification on the different lenses available.

Black iridium
- basic tinted and reflective coating sunglasses from my understanding
-assumed to be the entry level lenses.

Are these superior in any situation compared to Prizm, polarized, or Prizm polarized?
I was always under the impression non polarized lenses on cheaper glasses could end up damaging your eyes.

Prizm
-I’m learning of the different color options and the different contrasts they can produce. Something I need to learn more about since I’m red/green colorblind.
-I always thought this was just the mirrored line

What situations would Prizm non polarized lenses be superior in?

Polarized
-reduced glare and can cause distortion

I haven’t worn non polarized lenses in years. Would it be easier to list examples when you wouldn’t want polarized?

Prizm Polarized
- polarized and mirrored for looks is what I thought
-learning more about the different contrasts from different lenses

Is it true these 2 technologies were able to be combined for a while?
I’ve mostly stuck to black and tungsten, some of the colors I considered too flashy. But if they’re functional, I’m into it

Sorry for the long winded post. I wanted to gather first hand knowledge and experience from you folks. Plus I just ordered some New Straight Jackets and one of the sets of lenses is black Iridium🙄. So I’m hoping to find a use for it.

Thank you
 
  • Black Iridium
    • Basic grey tint + mirror = 100% UV
    • Regular sunglasses, basically.
    • Non-polarized won’t hurt your eyes. The material itself blocks UV, polarization is more of a horizontal blocking to reduce glare. You can test polarization on screens by shifting the glasses 90 degrees.
  • Prizm (non-polarized)
    • Color/contrast boost, generally benefits sports (Golf, Road, Trail, etc.).
    • Increases and decreases certain colors in the spectrum, so you have higher contrast/“pop.”
    • No glare filter, so digital screens and icy patches stay visible.
  • Polarized (classic)
    • Cuts reflected glare off water, snow, shiny roads.
    • Awesome for driving, fishing, boating.
    • Can distort LCDs or hide wet spots on trail.
  • Prizm Polarized
    • Contrast + glare control in one.
    • Ideal if you need both—for driving, water sports, snow.
Basically, Prizm = contrast, polarized = glare.

Hope this helps.
 
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