Polycarbonate is a type of plastic lens material used in eyeglasses and sunglasses. It is known for its light weight, high impact-resistance, and durability, making it a popular choice for sports and safety eyewear.
Polycarbonate lenses are also thinner and lighter than traditional plastic lenses, making them more comfortable to wear. They have a higher Abbe value than CR-39 lenses, which means they have even less chromatic aberration (color distortion) and provide better visual clarity. Polycarbonate lenses are also treated with scratch-resistant and anti-reflective coatings, making them a good choice for outdoor activities and for people who are hard on their glasses.
Due to its high impact-resistance, polycarbonate is also the recommended material for children's eyewear and for people with a high prescription, as it is less likely to crack or break under pressure.