DCHROM® Photochromic Lenses
How DCHROM® Photochromic Lenses Work
DCHROM® Photochromic lenses are lenses that, when exposed to UV rays or sunlight in general, trigger a reversible chemical reaction and darken. Once the light irradiation disappears, the lenses gradually return to their initial transparent state. They are made from premium-quality polycarbonate. This material has 2 very important technical advantages: it significantly reduces lens weight compared to conventional materials, and it provides added safety in the event of impact because it does not generate fragments that could damage the eye. These highly technical filters also protect against UV rays, making them a trusted solution both in terms of protection and comfort.
Focus: light management during outdoor sports, so you can wear your glasses “all the time” without interruption.
DCHROM® lenses are the evolution of the photochromic lens. They start from a slightly darker base than other photochromic lenses and reach Category 3 at maximum activation.
In addition to their remarkable speed in shifting from light to dark, they will surprise you with the outstanding sense of relaxation they provide for your eyes, even on days with very strong solar radiation.
This new-generation photochromic lens is a must-have for all athletes looking for sports eyewear suitable for any discipline involving prolonged outdoor use, even in very intense light conditions.
New DCHROM photochromic lenses category 0–3
The new DCHROM® Cat.0–3 lenses further expand the versatility of photochromic technology: this version starts from completely transparent (Category 0) and, as UV exposure and sunlight increase, reaches up to Category 3 at maximum activation.
Why is this a real advantage?
When you begin your outing in very low light (dawn, heavily shaded sections, dense woods), you want a lens that lets in as much light as possible; then, when you find yourself in full sun, you want protection and lasting comfort. The Cat.0–3 concept was created precisely to cover both situations with a single lens.
In practice: from transparent to Category 3, for dynamic management of the day and the route.
DCHROM category 1–3
The DCHROM® Cat.1–3 version keeps its “sport performance” approach: it starts from a slightly tinted base and reaches up to Category 3 at maximum activation, with the goal of ensuring protection and visual relaxation during prolonged outdoor sessions.
How do you choose between Cat.0–3 and Cat.1–3?
If you want maximum versatility even in very low light, the Cat.0–3 concept is designed to start completely transparent.
If, on the other hand, your priority is a lens designed for prolonged outdoor use with an already “sport-oriented” base tint, Cat.1–3 remains a benchmark for comfort and protection.
DCHROM® in outdoor sports
During activity, in addition to light management, coverage, stability and ventilation also matter: the goal is to wear your glasses from the beginning to the end of the outing, on road and trail, without interrupting your performance.
Mountain Bike and Road Cycling:
This special photochromic lens is highly appreciated by those who practice Mountain Bike and Road Cycling. Thanks to its remarkable transition speed, it is able to adapt to sudden changes in light such as entering wooded areas or tunnels. At the same time, in very bright conditions it protects the eyes from UV rays and provides a pleasant sensation of visual relaxation. In road cycling, athletes generally prefer mirrored smoke lenses or polarized lenses because on very bright days using a lens that is too light can generate discomfort and eye fatigue. The DCHROM® Photochromic lens is able to guarantee the same protection and benefits as mirrored Category 3 lenses, with the added advantage of being a transition lens that adapts to changing light intensity.
In MTB, where you alternate between woods and open spaces, a responsive photochromic lens helps maintain clear, continuous vision; on the road, where light is often more uniform and prolonged, the ability to reach Category 3 becomes essential for comfort and protection.
Mountains and Hiking:
In recent years, the photochromic lens has expanded beyond cycling and running into many outdoor sports. It is no surprise, then, that it can also be used for mountain hikes and trekking. As explained earlier, the strength of this special photochromic lens lies in its ability to keep the eyes completely relaxed in very bright conditions and during prolonged use. For those who love the mountains and, in particular, hiking at moderate altitude (below 2500 m), DCHROM® represents the lens for the glasses you put on before starting the hike and then completely forget you are wearing for the rest of the route. Transitions when entering tunnels or wooded areas are gradual, so your eyes always maintain a perfect view of the trail, without the classic glare when exiting a shaded area.
The philosophy here is simple too: fewer distractions, more continuity. A lens that follows the light lets you stay focused on the terrain and your pace, without visual “breaks” when moving from shade to sun.
Running and Trail Running:
As with MTB and road cycling, whether running on asphalt or off-road, photochromic sports glasses are a must. Whether you are running a half marathon or a marathon, jogging to stay in shape, or doing a standard training session in preparation for a race, the dynamic photochromic lens helps the athlete see the route more clearly. For those who practice trail running, it is essential because it is always a good idea to clearly see where your feet are landing. In road running, light transitions are fewer but there is often prolonged exposure to sunlight, while for trail runners transitions are frequent and long exposure to strong light is typical of every outing.
Golf, Tennis and Beach Volleyball:
DCHROM® is also very useful for those who practice golf, tennis or beach volleyball. These outdoor disciplines all share long exposure to UV rays and sunlight, and the photochromic lens allows for maximum visual comfort throughout the entire performance. It is also very useful in changing weather conditions: if the day shifts from intense sun to cloudy skies, the lens adjusts to the most suitable shade to guarantee perfect vision even in lower light conditions.
The sports eyewear models that use DCHROM® photochromic lenses
GRAVEL model – performance and versatility for outdoor sports.
FIANDRE model – designed for those seeking comfort and protection on long outings.
Would you like to explore DCHROM® models in different category configurations as well (Cat.0–3 / Cat.1–3) for cycling and MTB?
DCHROM® Prescription Photochromic Glasses
DCHROM® Prescription Photochromic Glasses:
For those who wear prescription glasses, we created FUSION, the DCHROM® photochromic sports eyewear with an optical insert for prescription lenses. This special system allows the use of the DCHROM® photochromic lens together with prescription lenses. The glasses can be used for every type of sport, thanks to the shape and characteristics of the lens.
A practical solution for those who want to keep the dynamic light management typical of DCHROM® without giving up vision correction.
FAQ about DCHROM® Photochromic Lenses
Do photochromic lenses always change?
The variation depends on the presence of UV rays and the intensity of the light: this is why they are especially useful between sun, clouds and shade.
Are they suitable for MTB and road cycling?
Yes: in MTB they help when alternating between bright and wooded sections; on the road they are ideal for long rides with more uniform light, avoiding the need to take your glasses off and put them back on.
What is the difference between DCHROM Cat.0–3 and Cat.1–3?
Cat.0–3 starts completely transparent to better manage even very low light and reaches up to Cat.3 at maximum activation; Cat.1–3 starts from a slightly tinted base and reaches Cat.3 at maximum activation, with a “sport-oriented” approach dedicated to prolonged outdoor use.