What to Expect When Buying Transitions® Lenses

May 19, 2025

Man wearing  Transitions® lenses

If you’ve ever wished your glasses could adapt as quickly as your lifestyle, Transitions® lenses could be the perfect upgrade. At Lensology, we reglaze thousands of frames every month, and Transitions® are one of our most popular lens options.

They darken outdoors, return to clear indoors, block 100% UVA & UVB rays, and reduce blue light exposure – all without you needing to switch between glasses and sunglasses. Whether you’re working, driving, travelling or relaxing, Transitions® lenses are designed to keep up with you.

Transitions® Lenses Range

Woman wearing Transitions® lenses

Transitions® GEN S™

Everyday Comfort & Speed
GEN S™ is the latest and most advanced Transitions® technology. Lenses adapt from clear to dark in under 25 seconds and return to clear faster than any previous generation.

Available in 8 stylish colours, GEN S™ is perfect for everyday wear – offering flexibility, comfort, and year-round eye protection.

Stock colours (Grey, Brown, Graphite Green) – fast turnaround.
Style colours (Sapphire, Amethyst, Emerald, Amber, Ruby) – non-stock, so production takes a little longer.

Image showing different lens colours for Transitions® GEN S™

Discover more about Transitions® GEN S™.

Woman wearing Transitions® XTRActive® lenses

Transitions® XTRActive®

Extra Protection for Drivers & Bright Conditions
XTRActive® lenses are designed to go darker outdoors than GEN S™, even in high temperatures. They also activate behind a car windscreen, making them an excellent option for drivers.

Available in Grey, Brown and Graphite Green, plus in mirror tints.

Image showing different lens colours for Transitions® XTRActive®

What to Expect with Transitions® XTRActive® Mirror Lenses

XTRActive® Mirror lenses are a stylish choice that combine the light-reactive technology of Transitions® with a striking mirrored finish outdoors. They offer excellent glare reduction, 100% UV protection, and unique colour options – making them one of the most popular upgrades for sunglasses and everyday eyewear.

Unlike standard Transitions® lenses, XTRActive® Mirror lenses have a subtle residual tint indoors, even when unreacted. This means they won’t appear completely clear inside. The level of tint varies depending on the colour you choose:

  • Green Mirror – noticeable residual tint indoors, adding a bold style but may not suit those wanting a neutral look.
  • Silver Mirror – minimal residual tint, very versatile and a sleek everyday option.
  • Blue Mirror – clean appearance indoors, with only a very subtle tint.
  • Gold Mirror – refined and understated, with barely visible colouring inside.
  • Red Mirror – more visible residual tint, perfect if you like a stronger, distinctive look.
  • Pink Mirror – bold and unique, but expect a stronger indoor tint compared to neutral colours.

Tip: If you want the cleanest and most neutral appearance indoors, Silver, Blue, or Gold are the best options. If you love a bolder look, Green, Red, or Pink will stand out more.

Discover more about Transitions® XTRActive®.

Woman wearing Transitions® XTRActive® Polarised lenses

Transitions® XTRActive® Polarised

Maximum Glare Protection
For the best in visual comfort, XTRActive® Polarised lenses combine light-reactive technology with polarisation. This means they adapt to changing light and also cut glare from reflective surfaces like water, roads and glass.

They’re the go-to choice if you spend a lot of time outdoors or driving, and want the clearest, sharpest vision possible.

Discover more about Transitions® XTRActive® Polarised.

How Temperature Affects Transitions® Lenses

Transitions® lenses are light-sensitive, so temperature can influence performance.

  • In colder conditions, lenses may darken more quickly but take longer to return to clear.
  • In hotter climates, standard Transitions® lenses may not reach maximum darkness.

This is where XTRActive® lenses shine – they’re designed for consistent performance in bright, hot conditions, while GEN S™ lenses are a perfect all-rounder for everyday UK use.

Close up of man wearing glasses on blurred background

Which Transitions® Lenses Are Right for You?

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

  • GEN S™ – best everyday option, available in 8 colours, fast-reacting and stylish.
  • XTRActive® – darker outdoors, works behind windscreens, ideal for drivers and sun-seekers.
  • XTRActive® Polarised – adds polarisation for unbeatable glare protection outdoors and on the road.

If you’re unsure which is best for you, our friendly team can guide you based on your lifestyle, prescription and frames.


Ready to Upgrade Your Lenses?

With Lensology, you don’t need to buy new frames – simply reglaze the glasses you already love. Our expert lab fits Transitions® lenses into almost any frame, often saving customers up to 70% compared to the high street.

Order Transitions® lenses online today or request a free postage pack to send in your frames. We’ll handle the rest – crafting your new lenses, fitting them to your frames, and delivering them back ready to wear.


Ready to replace your lenses?

Customise and order your lenses online, or request a pack for a personalised quote. Skip the high street prices and hassle with our easy online service at unbeatable prices.
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