In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about choosing the best sunglasses for driving, from polarised lenses to Transitions® XTRActive, so you can hit the road with clarity and confidence.
Why You Need Specialist Sunglasses for Driving
Sun glare is one of the most common causes of visibility issues behind the wheel. It can hit when the sun is low on the horizon – exactly the time most people are commuting to and from work. Combine that with reflections from wet roads, dashboards, and other cars, and even a short drive can become hazardous.
With the correct lenses, you can reduce glare, sharpen contrast, and help your eyes adjust more comfortably between light and shadow. That means less squinting, fewer headaches, and a safer journey every time you get behind the wheel.
What to Look for in Driving Sunglasses
Not every pair of sunglasses is safe for driving. Here’s what you should look for:
- UV protection – Essential for long-term eye health, protecting you from harmful rays.
- Lens colour – Neutral tones (grey, brown, green) provide comfort without distorting traffic light colours.
- Polarisation – Cuts out harsh glare from reflective surfaces like wet roads and bonnets.
- Anti-glare coatings – Reduce eye strain and improve clarity.
- Transitions® lenses – Adapt to changing light conditions for all-day comfort.
- Prescription options – Ensure your vision is corrected while still optimised for driving.
Polarised Lenses For Driving
Polarised lenses are one of the most popular choices for drivers – and for good reason. They dramatically reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, car bonnets, and wet roads. This makes them particularly effective in bright, sunny conditions or after rain.
The one drawback is that polarised lenses can sometimes make it harder to see digital dashboards or satnav screens. But for most drivers, the comfort and clarity they provide make them an excellent option.
Why Transitions® XTRActive® Lenses are Perfect for Driving
Regular Transitions® lenses don’t fully activate behind car windscreens – but Transitions® XTRActive® are different. They’re specially designed to activate in the car, giving you protection from glare and bright sunlight while driving.
- They adapt to changing conditions – whether it’s blazing sun, cloud cover, or tunnels.
- They come in multiple colour options (grey, brown, graphite green).
- They stay slightly tinted indoors too, for added comfort under harsh artificial light.
- Available with a polarised upgrade (Transitions® XTRActive® Polarised) for even greater glare protection.
For commuters, school runs, or anyone spending long hours on the road, Transitions® XTRActive are one of the most versatile and practical lens options available.
The Best Lens Colours for Driving
When it comes to driving, not all tints are created equal. Here’s a quick guide:
- Grey – A neutral all-rounder that reduces brightness without affecting colour perception.
- Brown/Amber – Increases contrast, making it easier to see in variable light or hazy conditions.
- Green – Offers a balance between contrast and colour accuracy, great for long drives.
Tip: Avoid blue, pink, or yellow fashion tints for driving – they can distort the colours of traffic signals, making them unsafe on the road.
What About Night Driving Glasses?
If you’ve searched online, you’ve probably seen yellow-tinted “night driving glasses” being promoted as a solution to glare from headlights. The truth? They’re not recommended.
Yellow tints reduce overall light transmission and can distort colours, making it harder (not easier) to see at night. The safest option for night driving is:
- Clear prescription lenses with an anti-glare coating (like Lensology’s ULTIMA). This reduces halos and reflections from headlights and streetlights without affecting visibility.
We’ve covered this in more detail in our Night Driving Glasses guide, but the takeaway is simple: tinted lenses should never be worn at night.
Why Choose Lensology for Driving Sunglasses
Driving is part of daily life – but it shouldn’t be a strain on your eyes. With the right lenses, you’ll enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision and safer journeys, whether you’re tackling the morning commute, navigating glare on a sunny weekend, or dealing with headlights at night.
At Lensology, we make it easy to upgrade your favourite frames with lenses designed specifically for driving:
- Reglaze your existing frames – sustainable and affordable.
- Wide range of driving-friendly options – polarised, tinted, Transitions® XTRActive, plus premium coatings.
- Expert handling – even for delicate or vintage frames.
- Fast turnaround – so you don’t have to wait weeks for clear, safe vision.
