Sunglasses are an essential accessory on bright sunny days, but for those requiring vision correction, choosing prescription sunglasses can be a difficult task. With so many options on the market ranging from discount to designer brands, how do you determine which are the best prescription sunglasses for your needs and budget?
This guide covers everything you need to know about shopping for the best prescription sunglasses online and in stores. We’ll discuss key features like lens technology, frame materials, and additional coatings so you can find shades that are both stylish and functional.
Read on for tips on finding affordable prescription sunglasses, the benefits of having prescription sunglasses, and emerging trends in sunglasses designs and frames. With the right pair, you’ll be seeing the world in high definition.
Features to Look for in Prescription Sunglasses
Impact-Resistant Lenses
Lenses made of polycarbonate or Trivex materials provide optical clarity while resisting shattering on impact. This protects your eyes during sports or activities.
Polarized or Mirrored Lenses
These special lens treatments reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water or snow. Polarized lenses heighten visual clarity while mirrored ones offer glare protection and a cool fashionable look.
UV Protection Coating
A 100% UV-blocking coating shields eyes from ultraviolet rays that can lead to conditions like cataracts. Make sure any pair you buy offers full UVA/UVB protection.
Anti-reflective and Anti-scratch Coatings
Additional coatings reduce visual distortions from light reflection and protect lenses from surface abrasions that can impair vision.
Composite Frames
Durable and flexible composite frames make sunglasses lighter and more comfortable to wear while still being strong and damage-resistant.
Finding Budget-Friendly Prescription Sunglasses
Designer sunglasses can come at a steep price, especially when adding corrective lenses. Here are tips for finding affordable prescription shades:
- Look for bundle deals and sales at online stores to save on high-quality sunglasses with lenses.
- Search for coupon and promo codes for additional discounts at major retailers. Sign up for email lists to get access to special offers.
- Consider buying just the frames and then adding lenses through your vision insurance or an independent lens maker to reduce costs.
- Shop big annual sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Prime Day for the deepest discounts on designer brands.
Benefits of Using Prescription Sunglasses
- For those who need vision correction, prescription sunglasses provide clear, protected outdoor vision. Sunglasses reduce glare and filter out harmful ultraviolet rays, while prescription lenses in the glasses correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This allows the wearer to enjoy sunny days while still seeing clearly both long and short-distance.
- One of the biggest benefits of prescription sunglasses is the UV rays protection they provide for the eyes. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation can contribute to serious eye conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and growths in the eye. A good quality pair of prescription sunglasses will block 100% of UV rays. This prevents long-term eye damage from the sun’s harshest rays.
- Prescription sunglasses also cut down on glare and reflections that can hinder vision. Glare occurs when intense reflected light obscures objects, causing squinting and eye fatigue. Polarized lenses minimize glare from surfaces like water, snow, and roads for improved eye comfort and safety while driving and doing activities.
- For athletes requiring vision correction, prescription sports sunglasses allow them to see the ball better and track objects in motion. The lenses are impact-resistant and the frames are lightweight for wearing during activities. By filtering out glare and providing visual acuity, prescription sunglasses can improve sports performance.
- Prescription sunglasses come in a wide variety of lens tints and fashionable frames. There are mirrored and gradient lens options that add style. With custom prescription lenses, sunglasses can be tailored specifically to your needs. Those with prescriptions beyond simple nearsightedness or farsightedness can get more specialized lenses to correct their vision and protect their eyes from the sun.
- In addition to vision-related benefits, prescription sunglasses allow people to follow fashion trends with designer brands. From cat-eyes to aviators, sunglasses are a stylish accessory. With prescription lenses, you don’t have to sacrifice looks for function. They also hide their eyes for a more mysterious, private appearance. Ultimately, prescription sunglasses make it possible to be in style while seeing clearly and keeping your eyes healthy.
Latest Trends in Prescription Sunglasses
- Oversized and wrap-around frames for maximum sun protection
- Retro-inspired shapes like aviators, wayfarers, and rounds
- Bold color pairings on frames with mirrored or gradient lenses
- Sleek angular and geometric frame designs
- Translucent and transparent frames for a lightweight feel
- Mirrored lens coatings in unconventional hues like green, gold, and orange
- Sunglass chains and cords for function and fashion
Data Source: Vision Council Consumer Barometer Survey5 Tips for Buying Prescription Sunglasses
- Have your current prescription and pupillary distance (PD) measured by your eye doctor.
- Choose polarized lenses for activities like driving, fishing, and being out on the water.
- Try on frames at the eye doctor’s office to find the best fit for your face shape.
- Look for adjustable nose pads and temples to create a secure comfortable fit.
- Give your eyes full sun protection by choosing oversized styles that block peripheral light.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of prescription sunglasses?
Prescription sunglasses allow people with vision issues to protect their eyes from bright light and UV rays while still being able to see clearly. They come in any style you want just like regular sunglasses.
Should I get an anti-reflective coating on the lenses?
Anti-reflective coating is highly recommended because it reduces distracting glare and reflections that can impair vision. It provides truer color perception as well.
How do I find my pupillary distance measurement?
Your pupillary distance (PD) can be measured during your regular eye exam. It is also sometimes listed on your existing glasses prescription. Online retailers may offer tools to self-measure PD at home.
What is the typical cost for prescription sunglasses?
Prescription sunglasses can range in cost from $50 to $500+ depending on the frame and lens options selected. However, there are many budget-friendly online options under $100.
Can I wear prescription sunglasses at night or indoors?
Prescription sunglasses with very dark lenses can make it difficult to see clearly at night or in dim indoor light. Speak to your eye doctor about getting a second lighter-tinted pair for versatility.
See the Possibilities With Prescription Sunglasses
With so many frame styles and lens options, you can find prescription sunglasses for any fashion sensibility and lifestyle need. Protect your eyes while making them pop with mirrored shades or sports performance frames in your favorite colors.
Prescription sunglasses open up new possibilities, letting you enjoy sunny days to the fullest while keeping your vision sharp. Use this guide to find the perfect pair that complements your look with enhanced optical clarity. The world just got a whole lot brighter and clearer!
- Have your current prescription and pupillary distance (PD) measured by your eye doctor.
