NoIR sunglasses

NoIR is a privately held company based in Michigan. I have no financial interest in the company.

I've not seen NoIR brand sunglasses mentioned in soaring circles. They have some interesting low-cost high-function options for lenses and frames. They has some interesting Infrared blocking lens technology that I've not seen elsewhere.

The Infrared (IR) blocking is suppose to reduce eye fatigue. I figure the black instrument panel on my glider absorbs visible light, heats up and re-radiates IR into my eyes. Theory is that IR makes your eyes tired. I don't know the science on this, but you can count on the placebo effect to work..

You can mix and match frames and filters depending on your preference.

It's hard to evaluate over the internet so they allow you to order multiple combinations and return your rejects for refund.

I ordered two pairs of this wraparound frame with different filters
http://www.noir-medical.com/styles/adult_34.html

This wrap-around style comes with an insert for prescription lenses. When they get scratched I can swap the prescription lenses to a new pair of sunglasses. The sunglasses filter protects the prescription lens from scratches.

I ordered two different lenses to evaluate.

Filter #21 -- 32% transmission Medium Gray
This blocks 68% of visible light similar to the 70% blocking favored by pilots.
This lens does not block IR.
http://www.noir-medical.com/filters/21.html

The web page shows the package price for the lens in frame. The actual prices are lower because they are offering a discount for phone orders while they are ramping up their online ordering.

Filter #02 -- 18% transmission Medium Grey-Green + IR blocking
http://www.noir-medical.com/filters/02.html
This blocks 82% of visible light similar to the 80% blocking favored by some pilots. It might be a little dark, but the IR blocking is appealing. They don't offer a 30% transmission IR blocking lens.

Some pilots use 10% transmission lenses so maybe this will work for me.

Here is the page show the full range of filters. Scroll down to see the IR options.
http://www.noir-medical.com/filters/index.html