Costa Del Mar, or simply Costa, is a brand well-known for its high-quality sunglasses, specifically designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures and activities. One term that often pops up when you are looking at their products is “580”. So, what does 580 mean on Costa sunglasses? This post will delve into the details, explaining the technology behind this number and why it makes Costa sunglasses stand out from the crowd.
A Brief Introduction to Costa Del Mar
Before we dive into the specific meaning of “580”, it’s worthwhile to understand the brand behind this technology. Costa Del Mar, based in Daytona Beach, Florida, USA, specializes in creating high-performance sunglasses for water sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Established in 1983, the brand quickly gained a reputation for its patented lens technology and durable, stylish frames.
Costa 580: A Revolution in Lens Technology
“580” is a term coined by Costa to denote their proprietary lens technology. The number represents a specific wavelength of light in nanometers (nm), and Costa’s 580 technology aims to block the harsh yellow light at 580nm and harmful high-energy blue light up to 400nm.
This unique feature allows for enhanced color clarity, contrast, and reduces haze and blur. It’s all part of Costa’s commitment to providing the most optimal viewing experience for their customers.
Understanding Light Spectrum and Vision
To understand why Costa emphasizes blocking light at 580nm, it’s necessary to delve a bit into the science of vision. The light spectrum visible to humans ranges from about 380nm (violet) to 750nm (red). The colors in the middle of the spectrum (around 580nm) correspond to yellow light, which, when harsh, can cause eye fatigue and distort color perception. By blocking this band of light, Costa 580 lenses can dramatically improve clarity and reduce glare.
Protecting From High-Energy Visible Light (HEV)
Blue light, particularly high-energy blue light up to 400nm, has been proven to potentially cause long-term damage to the eyes. Costa’s 580 lenses are specifically designed to block most of this HEV light, offering an added layer of protection for your eyes.
The Two Types of Costa 580 Lenses: Glass and Polycarbonate
There are two types of Costa 580 lenses: 580G (Glass) and 580P (Polycarbonate). While both possess the same patented 580 technology, they differ in their material properties, and thus, the scenarios in which they perform best.
580G: Glass Lenses
The 580G lenses offer the highest clarity due to the material’s inherent property. Glass lenses tend to be more scratch-resistant than their polycarbonate counterparts. They also offer better optical clarity and better resistance to heat. However, they are heavier and could shatter under severe impact.
580P: Polycarbonate Lenses
On the other hand, 580P lenses are more lightweight, making them more comfortable for prolonged use. They also handle impact better, making them ideal for high-intensity activities. However, they are slightly less clear and more prone to scratching than the 580G lenses.
Additional Features of Costa 580 Lenses
Beyond color enhancement and protection, Costa’s 580 lenses also come with additional features that make them a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
Polarization
All Costa 580 lenses are polarized, meaning they reduce glare reflected off surfaces like water, sand, or snow. This feature further improves clarity and reduces strain on the eyes.
UV Protection
Both 580G and 580P lenses offer 100% UV protection, shielding the eyes from harmful UVA, UVB, and UVC rays.
Mirrored Options
Costa offers mirrored options for both the 580G and 580P lenses. Mirrored lenses are beneficial in situations of intense light, like on the water or in snow, as they reflect more light away from the eyes.
Conclusion: The 580 Difference
To sum up, the “580” on Costa sunglasses refers to the company’s patented lens technology that enhances color, improves clarity, reduces glare, and offers protection from harmful light. Whether it’s the 580G or the 580P lenses, each brings a distinct advantage to cater to the specific needs of the user, enhancing their outdoor experiences. With a pair of Costa 580 sunglasses, one can rest assured they are not only getting a high-quality, durable product but also a technology that protects and enhances vision like no other.
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