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Not All Colours Are Equal: A Guide to Sunglass Tint Shades

  • Writer: Northern Sight Optometry
    Northern Sight Optometry
  • Sep 9
  • 2 min read
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Not all sunglass tints are created equal! Beyond just style, different lens colours can actually change how you see the world. The right tint can sharpen contrast, improve depth perception, reduce glare, and even soothe tired eyes — depending on where you are and what you’re doing.


At Northern Sight Optometry, we love helping our Kleinburg Vaughan patients choose sunglasses that don’t just look great but also work hard for their eyes. Here’s a simple guide to the most common sunglass tints and when they might be most useful for you.



Brown / Amber / Copper 🟤


Best for:

  • Driving

  • Hiking or trail walking

  • Golf

  • Everyday wear in variable light


Benefits:

  • Enhances contrast and depth perception

  • Improves visibility in partly cloudy or hazy conditions

  • Filters out blue light to reduce eye fatigue

  • Warmer, more comfortable overall viewing



Grey / Smoke ⚫


Best for:

  • Bright, sunny days

  • Water sports

  • General use outdoors

  • Preserving true-to-life colour perception


Benefits:

  • Reduces overall brightness without distortion

  • Maintains natural colour balance

  • Excellent for sensitive eyes

  • Comfortable for long hours in direct sun



Yellow / Gold 🟡


Best for:

  • Low-light or overcast days

  • Indoor sports or shooting

  • Early morning or dusk driving

  • Skiing in flat light conditions


Benefits:

  • Increases contrast and depth perception

  • Sharpens details in dim light

  • Not ideal for strong sun — best for clarity rather than heavy protection



Rose / Pink 🔴


Best for:

  • Snow sports

  • Hiking or cycling in low light

  • Long hours of screen use

  • Migraine or light sensitivity relief


Benefits:

  • Gentle on the eyes and soothing for extended wear

  • Enhances contrast against green and blue backgrounds

  • Filters out some blue light

  • Improves comfort during long activities



Green 🟢


Best for:

  • Golf

  • Tennis

  • Field sports

  • Everyday outdoor activities


Benefits:

  • Balances contrast with natural colour accuracy

  • Reduces glare while brightening shaded areas

  • Provides a soothing, neutral tone

  • Comfortable for all-day wear



Choosing the right sunglass tint isn’t just about fashion — it’s about function. The right colour can make your activities easier, more comfortable, and more enjoyable while giving your eyes the UV protection they deserve.


If you’ve ever wondered how these colours would actually look and feel, the easiest way to find out is to try them on in person. At Northern Sight Optometry, we’d love to show you the difference between each tint, explain which ones might suit your needs best, and help you find sunglasses that not only look stylish but also give you the best vision and comfort.


Come visit us and see the world through a whole new lens — literally!



 
 
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