The Randolph Atlantic Blue lens offers a bold and modern take on the Randolph American Gray lens. With its striking blue mirror and lightweight nylon construction, it’s designed to blend style and functionality seamlessly.
Check out the Atlantic Blue lens on Amazon (which is often cheaper than Randolph's website).
If you want to know more about how gray lenses work, click here.
In This Review
Lens Specs | Randolph Engineering Atlantic Blue Polarized |
Technology | SkyForce Nylon |
Lens Color | Gray |
Mirror Color | Blue |
VLT | Non-Polarized and Polarized 14% |
ABBE | ~50, but unknown |
Coatings | Anti-reflective, Scratch-resistant, Oleophobic, Hydrophobic, UV, Infrared and Blue-light blocking |
Material | Nylon |
Weight | Light |
Scratch Resistance | Moderate |
Prescription Available | Yes |
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The most important things to know about the Atlantic Blue lens are how it differs from Randolph's Cobalt lens—the other primary blue-mirrored option—and the American Gray lens, on which the Atlantic Blue is based.
The differences between the Atlantic Blue and the Cobalt lens are quite significant. While both feature blue mirrors, the Cobalt has a deeper, slightly greener hue, offering a more refined look, whereas the Atlantic Blue presents a vibrant Royal/Egyptian Blue tone (the difference is shown in the next section). Another key distinction is in material—Cobalt is made from glass, while Atlantic Blue is crafted from lightweight nylon. Perhaps most importantly, the Cobalt lens has a green-tinted base, whereas the Atlantic Blue lens features a neutral gray tint. The Cobalt mirror is also more reflective than the Atlantic Blue.
The differences between the Atlantic Blue and the American Gray are more subtle but still notable. Both lenses share the same pure gray tint, as the blue mirror on the Atlantic Blue does not noticeably alter the base color (which typically would shift toward amber). The key differences lie in material and aesthetics—while the American Gray is made from glass and has no mirror coating, the Atlantic Blue is a nylon lens with a distinctive blue mirror finish.
The clarity of the Atlantic Blue lens is top-notch, there isn't much difference between the nylon and glass, and it would take swapping the lenses back and forth a few times to see the glass is slightly sharper.
The lens includes every coating you could ask for—and more. It features anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, oleophobic (oil-repellent), hydrophobic (water-repellent), UV protection, and blue-light blocking coatings, ensuring durability and optimal performance in various conditions.
It also includes infrared (IR) blocking, a feature not commonly found in most other premium brands. However, its benefits are not well-proven. Most sunglass lenses, especially glass ones, naturally block some infrared radiation. Unlike UV rays, IR radiation doesn’t cause sunburn or cataracts, as the eye’s natural lens and cornea already filter much of it. The primary advantage of IR blocking is reducing the sensation of heat on your face and around your eyes, which can provide added comfort in hot environments. While this may be beneficial in extreme conditions like deserts, snowfields, or high altitudes, the difference is often subtle for everyday wear. Still, having it included doesn’t hurt.
The lenses are very light, noticeably lighter than the glass lenses (which are themselves not particularly heavy). The nylon lenses will be more impact-resistant than Randolph's glass lenses, but not as scratch-resistant.
There is no color-enhancing tech in the lenses, but for a classic gray lens that doesn't matter very much, as the point is to get a natural, neutral view.
Is it eligible for prescription?
Yes, Randolph recently began offering prescription lenses. They have options for polycarbonate, Trivex, and High Index, with their coatings included.
For non-prescription, Check out the Atlantic Blue lens on Amazon (which is often cheaper than 's website).
How does the lens look?
The front has a bright, vibrant blue mirror. The mirror works better with the sun shining on it, as it's not as reflective as other more solid mirrors, as you can see below next to the Cobalt mirror.
The back has a blue shine from the anti-reflective coating. The view through the lens is a classic gray, with no tilting towards blue or green like other grays may do. I often use this lens to show people what a classic gray lens with premium materials and coatings looks like.
Compared to the American Gray, it is almost exactly the same. The blue mirror has no noticeable optical effect.
What does the view look like?
The view is the same as the American Grey.
This is, in my opinion, the quintessential gray lens, . There is no color-enhancing tech, and no tint tilt towards blue, gray, or rose like some other brands have. This is a smooth, classic gray that removes glare and keeps the view perfectly neutral.
The visible light transmission of the Atlantic Blue is slightly on the higher side, meaning it is not a very dark lens. Non-polarized and polarized are both at 14% VLT (interesting that they are the same), and this means this lens has a bit of variability to it, as it will not be the darkest lens in high sunlight when you might want that, but will be light enough that slightly cloudy conditions do not feel too dark.
This makes sense to me because most gray lenses are on the darker side and only work well in full bright sun but perform poorly anywhere else. For someone who doesn't want the color altering of a brown or rose lens, which typically work better in variable conditions, this lens is a good option.
Sunny Conditions
These photos are what Randolph has used to show the view. I am also using photos of the American Gray lens, as the tints and VLT values are nearly identical. Keep in mind that photos will never look as good as the real view looking through the sunglasses with your own eyes.
Interested in experiencing the Atlantic Blue lens for yourself? Check out the lens on Amazon (which is often cheaper than Randolph's website).
The sky will be a bit darker in reality.
These photos are accurate to what the view is. A classic gray.
Cloudy Conditions
Gray lenses aren't the best choice for overcast or mixed lighting. Since they dim light without enhancing colors, they can make the environment feel flat and lifeless. That being said, as mentioned above, the Atlantic Blue, even in polarized, lets in a higher amount of light than other gray lenses and will do better in brighter overcast conditions.
Optimal and Suboptimal Viewing Conditions
Gray lenses are ideal for bright, sunny conditions, providing consistent comfort even with prolonged wear. Unlike other tints, they maintain true-to-life color perception, allowing your brain to process colors naturally without needing to “adjust” how objects appear. This natural color accuracy reduces eye strain and makes gray lenses feel intuitive and easy on the eyes over time. The Atlantic Blue lens is a standout option in this category.
Our brains rely on color memory, the ability to recognize familiar colors and automatically adjust for them. Because gray lenses preserve accurate color representation, they prevent visual dissonance when looking at everyday objects like the sky or foliage. In contrast, tints like amber or green can alter colors, making them appear warmer or cooler, which may feel unnatural with extended use. This is a key reason why gray lenses are comfortable for all-day wear.
While the Atlantic Blue lens performs exceptionally in full sunlight, it can feel lacking in cloudy or mixed lighting. Gray lenses are designed to reduce brightness without enhancing contrast, which can make overcast conditions seem dull and washed out. This can be a drawback for driving, where changing light conditions are common. In such situations, contrast-enhancing tints like brown, copper, or rose provide better depth perception and clarity. However, if you primarily experience sunny conditions, the Atlantic Blue lens remains a great all-day driving option.
The Atlantic Blue lens thrives in sun-soaked environments like beaches and deserts, offering effortless comfort for extended wear. Unlike high-contrast or strongly polarized lenses that can sometimes feel overpowering, gray lenses provide a balanced level of protection while maintaining a natural viewing experience. For vacationers and outdoor enthusiasts, this means reliable eye comfort without the visual strain caused by altered colors.
Although the Atlantic Blue lens may not be the best fit for overcast weather or rapidly changing light, it excels as a versatile choice for consistently sunny days. If you frequently drive in varying conditions, a warmer tint or a gray lens with a mirror coating might be a better fit. But for those who live in predominantly bright climates, the Atlantic Blue could easily be the go-to choice.
Personally, I don’t find the Atlantic Blue to be my perfect match—not because it falls short in any way, but simply because I enjoy switching between darker lenses for intense sunlight and warmer tints for overcast days. However, if I only owned one lens and lived in a sunny region, I doubt I’d feel the need to look for anything else. Even now, I find myself reaching for this lens regularly, thanks to the undeniably stylish aviator frame.
Sports
In full sun, gray lenses are fine for sports but not the best choice. Since gray lenses are neutral, they don’t evoke feelings of energy or warmth. When playing sports, you want a lens that makes everything feel vibrant and dynamic. For this, a brown or rose lens is a better option. Brown and rose lenses also provide a lot more color enhancement and contrast which are advantageous for sports.
Gray lenses shine in water sports and fishing. Their true color clarity and glare reduction (especially when polarized) make it easier to spot fish beneath the water's surface. The natural color balance also reduces eye strain during long hours on reflective water, keeping your vision sharp and your eyes comfortable.
The nylon lens is impact-resistant (much more than glass) and better for sports than most of Randolph's lenses.
Interested in experiencing the Atlantic Blue lens for yourself? Click here to buy on Amazon.
Comparison to the same brand - Randolph Engineering
Randolph Engineering AGX/Cobalt
A dark, soothing green lens that works better than the Atlantic Blue in full sun, but performs poorly in overcast conditions. I really enjoy the AGX/Cobalt in very bright sun. The Cobalt is the AGX with a spectacular blue mirror on top. The mirror does not change the view from the AGX. The Cobalt comes in glass whereas the Atlantic Blue comes in lightweight nylon.
Randolph Engineering American Tan
American Tan is a reddish brown lens that has a low VLT (11%) while still adding significant contrast. In full sun it works well, though feels much too hot in comparison to the Atlantic Blue. The Tan performs much better than the Atlantic Blue in overcast conditions, but only average compared to other brown lenses, thriving in bright haze or mostly sunny with passing clouds. The Tan comes in glass whereas the Atlantic Blue comes in lightweight nylon.
See here for the full Randolph Tan review.
We will not be comparing to other brands for the Atlantic Blue lens. The tint is the same as the American Gray, so see that review for gray lens alternatives. For blue mirrored lens alternatives, see the Maui Jim Blue Hawaii, Serengeti 555nm Blue, and the Costa Del Mar 580 Blue Mirror.
Conclusion - Randolph Atlantic Blue Lens Review - Should you buy it?
The Randolph Atlantic Blue lens is a classic, no-nonsense option for those seeking true-to-life color, exceptional clarity, and reliable sun protection with a smooth blue mirror finish. While it doesn't reinvent the wheel, it delivers on everything you expect from a high-quality gray lens. Its natural color balance minimizes eye strain, making it comfortable for long-term wear in bright, sunny conditions.
If you’re looking for an all-weather, all-purpose lens, there may be better choices — especially if you drive frequently in mixed light or cloudy conditions. But for those who prioritize natural, neutral color perception and a classic aesthetic, the Atlantic Blue lens is a timeless choice. It’s a lens that stays true to its roots — clean, clear, and consistent. This is a Tier 3 lens despite no color-enhancing technology because Randolph made this lens as good as a classic non-glass gray lens could be.
If you're interested in trying out the Atlantic Blue lens, you can find it on Amazon, often at a lower price than Randolph's official website.
