R R

What Is a Category 2 Eyeglass Sun Tint?

A Category 2 sun tint is a standardized classification for sunglass lenses based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT). Lenses in this category transmit between 18 percent and 43 percent of visible light. This makes them moderately dark, suitable for general outdoor use in changeable or moderate sunlight.

Link to This Resource Page

Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.

To display this...

What Is a Category 2 Eyeglass Sun Tint?

A Category 2 sun tint is a standardized classification for sunglass lenses based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT). Lenses in this category transmit between 18 percent and 43 percent of visible light. This makes them moderately dark, suitable for general outdoor use in changeable or moderate sunlight.

read more about category 2 eyeglass sun tint ...

Copy this HTML:

Copy HTML Copied!

Why is Category 2 Suitable for Everyday Wear?

Category 2 is suitable for everyday wear because it offers good light reduction without being too dark for partially shaded areas. It provides a comfortable level of glare reduction for overcast days or driving in variable light conditions.

How Does Category 2 Compare to Category 3?

Category 3 tints are darker, transmitting only 8 percent to 18 percent of light, making them best for bright sun and beaches. Category 2 is lighter, allowing more light through, which is better for transitional conditions like walking in and out of shadows.

What is the Safe Driving Use for Category 2?

Category 2 tints are excellent for driving. They reduce brightness without impairing vision in the car's interior or in tunnels. Their moderate darkness makes them a versatile choice for people who drive in conditions ranging from cloudy to moderate sun.

How Tint Choices Relate to Contact Lens Use?

Since contacts provide clear vision, a Category 2 tint is a good option to wear over them. It adds moderate sun protection and comfort for daily outdoor tasks without being excessively dark.

FAQs on Category 2 Sun Tint

Is Category 2 safe for night driving?

No, any tinted lens is unsuitable for safe night driving.

Is Category 2 used for high-altitude sports?

No, high-altitude sports require Category 4, which blocks more light.

Can Category 2 lenses be polarized?

Yes, the Category 2 rating refers only to the tint density. The lens can be polarized or non-polarized.

When to See Your Doctor

Category 2 lenses transmit 18% to 43% of light. If you find these too light for daytime use, your pupils may be larger than average, letting in too much light. A doctor can check your "pupil size" in different light levels to recommend the safest tint category.

References

ISO 12312-1:2022. Eye and Face Protection - Sunglasses (iso.org). 2024.

AAO. Choosing the Best Sunglasses (aao.org). 2024.

Review of Optometry. Pupil Diameter and Light Transmission (reviewofoptometry.com). 2023.

National Safety Council. Sunglasses and Safe Driving (nsc.org). 2024.