Transition Lenses
One pair. Every light condition.
How do transition lenses work?
How dark do they get?
Do transition lenses work behind a car windscreen?
Transitions Gen S vs Transitions XTRActive
Transitions Gen S
Transitions XTRActive
Which transition is right for you?
Why choose transition lenses?
Choose your lens index with transition lenses
1.50
1.60
1.67
1.74
Available across all lens types
How to add transition lenses to your order
Ready to order your transition lenses?
Frequently asked questions
Why don't my transition lenses darken in the car?
Standard transition lenses (Gen S) react to UV light. Modern car windscreens are laminated and block around 98–99% of UV light — which means Gen S lenses receive very little UV stimulus behind the windscreen and do not darken significantly. Transitions XTRActive also reacts to visible light, allowing it to darken behind a windscreen. If you drive regularly, XTRActive is the recommended choice.
What is the difference between Transitions Gen S and XTRActive?
Gen S is the standard option — it reacts to UV light, goes fully clear indoors, and is ideal for general everyday use. XTRActive reacts to both UV and visible light, making it the better choice for drivers as it darkens behind a windscreen. XTRActive also retains a very slight indoor tint (around 17%) and provides additional blue-violet light protection indoors. XTRActive is available as a +£20 upgrade.
Do transition lenses go completely clear indoors?
Transitions Gen S returns to a fully clear lens indoors. Transitions XTRActive retains a very slight indoor tint — approximately 17% — which is barely noticeable in most indoor lighting conditions. If you need a completely clear indoor lens, Gen S is the better choice. If you drive regularly, the slight indoor tint of XTRActive is worth the trade-off.
Are transition lenses suitable for driving?
Transitions XTRActive is suitable for daytime driving — it darkens behind a windscreen in response to visible light. Transitions Gen S is not recommended for driving as it relies on UV light which is blocked by most windscreens. Neither transition option should be worn for night driving as the lenses may retain some residual tint in low-light conditions.
What colours are transition lenses available in?
Both Transitions Gen S and XTRActive are available in three colours — Grey, Green and Brown. Grey is the most neutral and does not alter colour perception. Green maintains natural colour balance. Brown enhances contrast and depth perception, which many drivers and outdoor sports wearers prefer.
Can I get transition lenses on varifocal or bifocal?
Yes. Both Transitions Gen S and XTRActive are available on single vision, varifocal (all four packages), bifocal and non-prescription lenses. Select your lens type at checkout and then choose your preferred transition option at the coatings step.
