What color are Ray-Ban's classic G-15 lenses?

Ray-Ban’s classic G-15 lenses are green. More precisely, they are a neutral gray-green tint designed to preserve relatively natural color and contrast while reducing the amount of visible light reaching the eyes.

The “G” is commonly understood as referring to green, while “15” refers to the lenses transmitting about 15 percent of incoming visible light. That makes G-15 a lens specification rather than simply a fashion color. The tint was developed for comfortable glare reduction without turning the world unnaturally blue, brown, or gray.

Ray-Ban introduced G-15 tempered-glass lenses in 1953. They became closely associated with the brand’s classic models, including the Aviator, although not every Ray-Ban model sold today uses G-15 lenses. Current collections can include blue, brown, gray, polarized, gradient, and photochromic options.

Another common confusion is equating G-15 with polarization. G-15 describes the tint and light transmission; a lens can be G-15 and polarized, but the two terms describe different properties. Polarization reduces glare from reflective surfaces such as water or roads, while the green-gray tint manages light and color balance.