Ref. #55CAC0 · M470-5
Explorer Blue
31%LRV Value
NeutralUndertone
Explorer Blue Technical Profile
What color is Explorer Blue? It's a medium cool blue with the hex code #55CAC0. Colors similar to Explorer Blue include Valspar Bayside, Vista Paint May Day, Valspar Seafarer. Explorer Blue has a neutral undertone, which affects how it pairs with trim, flooring, and adjacent wall colors. Its LRV of 31 gives Explorer Blue depth without going dark, which makes it a strong choice for accent walls, libraries, and rooms with abundant natural light. Pair it with cool whites like Chantilly Lace, walnut or rift-cut oak floors, and brushed nickel or polished chrome hardware. Brass accents add warmth for a layered look. Blues stay crisp under 4000K+ cool LEDs. Under 2700K warm bulbs they can read grayer or shift slightly purple — particularly true for mid-tone and saturated blues.
Colors Similar to Explorer Blue
Closest digital match based on color values. Always verify with physical samples.
Recommended Pairings
Colors That Work With Explorer Blue
Timeless pairing with clean white trim and a tonal accent wall
Side Walls
Explorer Blue
#55CAC0
Accent Wall
Tonal Shift
A warm shift that adds depth without clashing.
#799EB9
Trim & Molding
Pure White
Crisp white trim for a clean, traditional look.
#FFFFFF
Color Palettes for Explorer Blue
Color harmonies based on color theory — each swatch links to the closest matching paint.
Opposite on the color wheel — creates vibrant contrast
Explorer Blue Room Palettes
Color schemes built around this color — each swatch links to the closest matching paint.
Warm & Inviting
Warm tones with cozy appeal — welcoming and comfortable
Cool & Calm
Cool hues with soft contrast — serene and restful
Bold Contrast
Complementary hues with punch — dynamic and striking
Similar Behr Colors
Other Behr colors close to Explorer Blue.
More blue colors from other brands
Cross-brand colors in the blue family — useful when you want a similar look from a different brand.
Explorer Blue — Frequently Asked Questions
What undertone does Explorer Blue have?
Explorer Blue by Behr has a neutral undertone and belongs to the blue color family.
What colors match Explorer Blue from other brands?
The closest matches are Bayside by Valspar (#5FC8C0), May Day by Vista Paint (#5BCDC7), Seafarer by Valspar (#62C1B6). Always verify with physical samples.
What is the LRV of Explorer Blue?
Explorer Blue has an LRV of 31.0, where 0 is pure black and 100 is pure white.
Explore More with Explorer Blue
Related Reading
How to Match Paint Colors Across Brands
The science behind Delta E and CIEDE2000 — find a Behr equivalent of any Sherwin-Williams shade, or a Benjamin Moore alternative when your store is out of stock.
Understanding Paint Color Undertones
Why Explorer Blue's neutral undertone matters more than its surface color — and how to read undertones in any paint chip.