Eyeglass Lens Materials: CR-39, Polycarbonate, Trivex & High-Index

The lens material determines the weight, the durability, the optical clarity and the thickness. Take a look at the comparison and then see what suits each situation best.

CR-39: the classic

The first plastic optical material. It offers the best optical clarity (a high Abbe value = minimal chromatic distortion) at an affordable price. The downside: it is less resistant to impact and becomes thicker in strong prescriptions. Even so, it remains a popular, dependable choice for everyday glasses where clarity matters and the budget is limited.

Polycarbonate: the tough one

Almost unbreakable and lightweight, with built-in 100% UV protection. It is the first choice for sports glasses, children and safety eyewear. It has a lower Abbe value (slight blurring at the edges in strong prescriptions), but its outstanding impact resistance makes it hard to beat wherever safety and durability come first.

Trivex: the “best of both”

It combines the toughness of polycarbonate with better optical clarity and even lower weight. It is ideal when you want both durability and top-tier vision — the sweet spot for anyone who refuses to compromise on either quality.

High-index: the thin one

Materials with a high refractive index bend light more, so the lens can be thinner and lighter for the same prescription. It is the perfect solution for high myopia, helping you avoid the dreaded “coke-bottle” lens look while keeping the frame comfortable and flattering.

Don’t forget the UV

Regardless of the material, for sunglasses the most important thing remains 100% UV (UV400) protection. Polycarbonate and Trivex provide it inherently; with other materials it is ensured through a coating. Always check that any sunglasses you buy block the full UV spectrum, not just visible glare.