Lens Coatings

What are lens coatings and why would I need them?

• Lenses are coated in various types of proprietary chemicals (coatings) that drastically improve their performance.
• Some are optional, some are mandatory, all of them are useful.

Hard / Scratch-Resistant Coatings

• They harden the lens making them resistant to scratches. They also provide some UV protection.
• COMES STANDARD

Anti-Reflective (AR) Coatings

• Also called “anti-glare” coatings, these coatings reduce the reflection of light on the surface of the lens, drastically reducing annoying glare and glints. They also block out UV light.
• Hoya, Zeiss, Shamir, Essilor, Nikon… they all have their own sets of AR coatings and we’ll help you determine which is right for you.
• IDEAL FOR: Everyone.

 Anti-Reflection Hydrophobic Coatings

• This coating greatly deters water (but also dust, dirt and oils) from sticking to the lens.
• IDEAL FOR: Those looking for a low maintenance lens that is easy to clean.

Anti-Reflection with Blue-Filtering Coatings

• These special coatings reduce the amount of high-energy blue light reaching your eyes.
• This is important because we are increasingly exposed to unnaturally high levels of blue frequency light (because of our TVs, tablets, computers and phones). The high amounts of blue light cause eye strain and fatigue and also push back our circadian rhythms (which gets in the way of a good night’s sleep)! Read more.
• IDEAL FOR: Those who spend a significant amount of time with TVs, computers, tablets and phones.