PC vs TAC vs Nylon Lenses (6C / 8C Base Curve)
PC lenses are the impact-resistant default for sport and safety; TAC lenses are the low-cost way to make polarized fashion sunglasses; nylon lenses give clearer optics and impact resistance at a higher price.
PC (polycarbonate)
Light and very impact-resistant, so it is used in nearly all safety glasses and most sports lenses. It blocks UV naturally. It scratches easily without a hard coat and has more optical distortion than nylon or glass.
TAC (cellulose triacetate)
Thin layers laminated around a polarizing film. TAC polarized lenses are light, cheap and widespread in fashion sunglasses, but have lower impact resistance than PC — not suitable for safety ratings.
Models by lens material
Nylon (polyamide)
Combines good impact resistance with better optical clarity and chemical resistance. Used in premium sports and fishing sunglasses; costs more than PC.
What do 6C and 8C base curves mean?
Base curve describes how curved the lens front is. 6-base lenses are moderately curved and suit most frames and RX inserts; 8-base lenses wrap around the face for sport, blocking more side light and wind. Our K series uses mainly PC 6C cylindrical lenses, with TAC 8C spherical and TAC polarized options.
How to specify lenses in a quote
Give the material (PC, TAC, nylon), polarized or not, base color, mirror coating, and any coatings (hydrophobic, anti-fog, anti-scratch). We confirm each on the sample.