1.499 CR39 Sunglass Lenses: The Ultimate Choice for Everyday Clarity and Protection
When choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses, aesthetic appeal is only half the equation—the lens material defines how well you see and how comfortable you feel throughout the day. Among the vast array of optical materials available, 1.499 CR39 sunglass lenses remain the gold standard for non-prescription and low-prescription sunwear.
Renowned for superior optical clarity, light weight, and excellent tinting capability, CR-39 resin continues to dominate the sunglass industry. Here is everything you need to know about 1.499 CR39 sunglass lenses and why they might be the best option for your next pair of shades.
CR-39 (Columbia Resin #39) is a thermal-cured plastic material invented in the 1940s that revolutionized the eyewear industry as a lightweight, shatter-resistant alternative to traditional glass.
The number 1.499 refers to the material’s refractive index—a measurement of how efficiently the lens bends light. A 1.499 index indicates a standard index lens, which provides exceptional visual clarity with minimal chromatic aberration, making it ideal for Plano (non-prescription) sunglasses or mild corrective prescriptions.
| Feature | Benefit for Eyewear Users |
|---|---|
| Exceptional Optical Clarity | Features an Abbe value of ~58, delivering sharp, distortion-free vision virtually equal to glass. |
| Lightweight Comfort | Roughly 50% lighter than traditional glass lenses, reducing nose bridge pressure during long wear. |
| Superior Dye & Tint Absorption | Absorbs tints smoothly and evenly, allowing for vibrant gradients, solid colors, and custom mirror coatings. |
| Cost-Effective Quality | Offers high-end optical performance at an accessible price point compared to high-index materials. |
| Inherent UV Resistance | Easily treated during manufacturing to block 100% of harmful UVA and UVB radiation. |
Understanding how CR-39 compares to alternatives helps in making an informed purchasing decision:
- CR-39 vs. Glass: While glass offers excellent scratch resistance, it is heavy and brittle. 1.499 CR39 provides nearly identical visual clarity while being far safer and lighter.
- CR-39 vs. Polycarbonate: Polycarbonate offers extreme impact resistance (ideal for sports), but it has a lower Abbe value (~30), which can create color distortion at the edges. CR-39 provides noticeably crisper, truer-to-life vision for daily wear.
- CR-39 vs. High-Index (1.60/1.67): High-index lenses are thinner for strong prescriptions, but for Plano (0.00) or low-power sunglasses, 1.499 CR39 offers better optical performance at a lower cost.
1.499 CR39 sunglass lenses are a versatile option suitable for a wide range of styles and uses:
- Fashion & Daily Sunwear: Ideal for high-end fashion frame brands due to precise color tint matching.
- Polarized Sunglasses: CR-39 serves as an excellent base material for laminated polarized filters, eliminating glare from water, roads, and snow.
- Gradient Tints: Excellent for driving and outdoor reading glasses where a darker top and lighter bottom tint are desired.
To prolong the life of your 1.499 CR39 sunglass lenses:
- Apply a Hard Coating (Anti-Scratch): Since plastic is softer than glass, an AR or hard coating helps prevent surface scuffs.
- Use Microfiber Cloths: Always clean lenses with warm water, mild soap, and a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid paper towels or clothing edges.
- Store in a Protective Case: Keep sunglasses in a hard case when not in use to avoid impact damage.
For everyday wearers seeking a balance between crystal-clear visual performance, comfort, and affordability, 1.499 CR39 sunglass lenses remain an unbeatable option. Whether customizing a bespoke pair of polarized aviators or buying everyday driving shades, CR-39 delivers reliable eye protection and vibrant visuals under the sun.