What does UV400 mean for sunglasses?

UV400 means that the lenses of a pair of sunglasses block ultraviolet radiation with a wavelength up to 400 nanometers. This covers both UVA and UVB radiation. It is the most important specification for sunglasses, and it says nothing about how dark the lenses are.

What is the difference between UV400 and 100% UV protection?

In practice, nothing. Visible light starts around 400 nanometers. Lenses that block everything up to 400 nanometers therefore block all UVA and UVB. Manufacturers use both terms interchangeably.

Are dark lenses the same as UV protection?

No. How dark a lens is is indicated by the filter category (Cat. 0 to Cat. 4). UV protection is a separate layer. Dark lenses without a UV filter are even worse than no glasses at all: your pupils open wider, while the UV radiation passes right through.

How can you tell if sunglasses have UV400 protection?

Look at the label, the product page, or the inside of the temple. In Europe, sunglasses must comply with the EN ISO 12312-1 standard and have a CE marking. If it doesn't say UV400 or 100% UV, ask.

Are cheap sunglasses with UV400 just as good?

For UV protection, yes. A pair of glasses costing €25 with UV400 blocks as much UV as designer glasses with UV400. The difference lies in the rest: how the frame fits, how long the hinges last, and how clear the lenses are.

Do Shadeclub glasses have UV400 protection?

Yes. All sunglasses in the Club Register have UV400 lenses, and all but one are also Cat. 3. On every product page, the specification is listed in one line, for example CAT.3 · UV400 · POLARISED.

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