Blog

Choosing the right sun lens shape: from classic rounds to performance shields

5 September 2025

Lens geometry: a strategic design decision

When developing a new eyewear collection, the shape of the sun lens plays a key role not only in terms of aesthetics, but also in performance and manufacturing feasibility. From timeless round lenses to technical shield designs and special geometries shapes, choosing the right geometry impacts everything: from optical clarity and user comfort to brand identity and cost optimisation.
Additionally, lens geometry influences key production parameters such as base curve selection, edging tolerances, and compatibility with different frame constructions, which are critical for ensuring optical alignment and avoiding visual distortions.

Round lenses: timeless versatility for lifestyle collections

Round lenses remain a staple in the world of eyewear, blending classic appeal with modern minimalism. Their symmetrical design is particularly suitable for metal or acetate frames and can easily be adapted across unisex, vintage, or trend-driven lines.

From a technical standpoint, round lenses can be produced in a variety of materials including polyamide (nylon), polycarbonate, and OM15 (i.e. CR-39), offering flexibility in terms of thickness, optical quality, and impact resistance. Nylon lenses provide high optical clarity and thin profiles, while CR-39 is appreciated for its optical purity and ease of tinting.

These lenses are ideal for lifestyle collections where visual comfort, aesthetics, and lightness are key. The choice of material will depend on whether the emphasis is on performance, design, sustainability, or cost-effectiveness.

Round lenses are also well-suited to a wide range of base curves, which makes them highly adaptable for different eyewear designs and models, as well as easy to combine with premium treatments such as polarised or repellent coating.

Shield and goggle lenses: bold style meets extended coverage

Shield and goggle lenses, also known as mono lenses, are a go-to choice for brands aiming to make a statement. Their continuous, wraparound surface provides a futuristic aesthetic while offering wide peripheral coverage and fewer frame obstructions.

Typically manufactured in polycarbonate for its superior impact resistance, these lenses are well-suited for both urban activewear and technical sports collections.

The geometries of these formats require precise optical centering to avoid prismatic effects and ensure optimal field of view at high speeds or during dynamic head movements.
Shield lenses are especially effective in cycling, golf, running and high-speed sports, but are increasingly used in fashion-forward designs where performance meets bold styling.

Google lenses, larger than shields, on the other hand, are engineered for extreme conditions and high-performance sports. Originally designed for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, they are now widely used in other sport as a stylish alternative to the classic shield.

There are three primary types of shield and goggle geometries used in the eyewear industry:

Spherical are curved in both horizontal and vertical directions. This dual curvature reduces distortion and enhances depth perception, making them ideal for winter sports and premium outdoor eyewear.
Cylindrical are curved horizontally but flat vertically. They offer a more compact profile and are often chosen for their sleek look and manufacturing efficiency.
Toric combine both curvatures on different axes, striking a balance between optical performance and design compactness. This geometry is perfect for brands looking to innovate while preserving clarity and comfort.

Each geometry type can be paired with advanced coatings, mirror treatments, and high-contrast tints, depending on the target environment, be it high-glare snowfields, dusty off-road trails, or bright cityscapes. Material selection, primarily polycarbonate or polyamide, ensures impact resistance and compatibility with complex frame constructions.

Special geometries: advanced optics for unique applications

Beyond standard shape, ZEISS Sunlens also develops special geometries designed for advanced optical performance and sophisticated applications, such as Voodoo, EVS, V-Toric, and Super 7 shields.

These formats stand out for their innovative design, developed from patented optical studies by ZEISS optical research and realised through precision-crafted molds using advanced technology. Their particular varying curvature across the spherical surface guarantees sharp, distortion-free vision over the entire lens, wider field of view including the edges, ensuring outstanding optical performance. At the same time, the lenses conform closely to the natural contours of the face and head, providing enhanced safety and total eye protection even in the most demanding environments.

By combining innovation, optical precision, and protective design, these geometries empower brands to address specific performance needs while maintaining the signature quality and trust associated with ZEISS Sunlens.

Tailored sun lens solutions: from shape to performance

At ZEISS Sunlens, we understand that choosing the right lens shape is never just about design, it’s about defining the essence of a collection. Whether you’re developing a performance-driven sport model or a concept for the fashion market, every choice, from geometry to material, influences the final outcome.

For example, round lenses, made from polyamide, CR-39, or polycarbonate, offer lightweight comfort and design flexibility for lifestyle ranges. Shield lenses, typically produced in polycarbonate, ensure impact resistance and full coverage for sport or urban collections. Goggle formats, using both polycarbonate and nylon, bring technical performance and aesthetic impact to the forefront.

But beyond offering a catalogue of proven geometries and materials, we go further: partnering with ZEISS Sunlens, means being supported in every design and technical decision, with the possibility of developing custom lens formats tailored specifically to the brand’s identity and performance goals. Leveraging ZEISS Sunlens’ long-standing optical know-how, we also support brands with technical guidance to achieve zero-distortion vision by ensuring the perfect match between lens geometry and frame construction. From initial ideation to industrial feasibility, our team of experts works alongside you to bring exclusive, innovative lens solutions to life, without compromising on optical excellence or brand vision.

Get in touch with us to learn more and start developing your next eyewear collection with ZEISS Sunlens, where innovative lens design meets brand-driven vision.

Contact Us

How can we help you?

Form is loading...

Use this Form to request Information on our Products and Services.

Optional information

The information entered in the contact form will be used to answer your request by Carl Zeiss Vision International GmbH by E-Mail or phone. Click here to read our statement on data protection.