Finding the Best High Prescription Sunglasses Online
Having a strong prescription for your eyeglasses can make finding the right pair of prescription sunglasses more difficult. Many retailers don't offer lens options above +4.00 or -4.00. And the higher your prescription, the thicker the lenses will be in standard frames. But with high quality materials and clever designs, it is possible to find fashionable, lightweight sunglasses - no matter your prescription strength.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll discuss how to shop for high prescription sunglasses online, including what features to look for. We'll also recommend some of the top retailers and brands that cater to stronger prescriptions. Whether you need single vision, bifocal or progressive lenses, you'll find stylish sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.
Factors to Consider When Buying High Prescription Sunglasses
Here are some key things to keep in mind when shopping for sunglasses with a stronger prescription:
Lens Material
Lens material impacts thickness, weight, durability and clarity. Plastic and polycarbonate lenses are more affordable, while glass lenses offer excellent optics. High index lenses, like 1.67, 1.70 and 1.74, are pricier but thinner and lighter.
Lens Technology
Specialized lens technologies like free-form digital surfacing provide precise vision correction, while features like polarization and blue-light filtering add functionality.
Lens Size & Shape
Larger lenses mean thicker edges, so smaller lens sizes help minimize bulk. Rounded rectangles and ovals also tend to look better with strong prescriptions versus oversized aviators.
Frame Size
Aim for frame sizes that are proportional to your face. Oversized styles create thicker lens edges. Full-rim frames also hide lens thickness better than thin wire frames.
Temple Style
Look for sturdy temples that curve behind the ear, rather than straight temples which can magnify lens thickness. Spring hinges also help temples grasp the head securely.
Nose Pads
Adjustable silicon nose pads allow you to tweak the fit so lenses sit correctly in front of your eyes. This improves comfort and vision accuracy.
Where to Buy High Prescription Sunglasses Online
Many popular online eyewear retailers only offer a limited prescription range. But there are several excellent options for high prescription sunglasses, including:
Online Eyeglasses Stores
EyeBuyDirect
This affordable online retailer offers RX sunglasses up to +/- 14.00 prescription strength. Lens options include 1.67 high index plastic and polycarbonate. Blue light filtering Transitions lenses are also available.
GlassesUSA
GlassesUSA offers single vision Rx sunglass lenses up to +/- 12.00 powers. Materials include impact-resistant polycarbonate and mid-index 1.57 plastic. Blue light coating is optional.
FramesDirect
FramesDirect offers a "HighRX Program" allowing prescriptions up to +/- 20.00 for plastic lenses and +/- 15.00 for polycarbonate. Brands include Oakley, Costa Del Mar and Maui Jim.
Lens Replacement Services
Lensabl
Send Lensabl your own frames and they'll install new lenses hand-cut for your prescription. Options range up to -20/+12 sph, 8 cyl. Popular lens materials and coatings available.
Lensology
Lensology offers high index lenses up to -25.00/+12.00 prescription powers. They also do Rx lens replacement for your existing sunglasses. Standard and premium lens options available.
Online Boutiques
GlassesShop
This online optical offers a wide selection of designer sunglasses in prescription strengths up to -20/+12 sph, 6 cyl. High index, polarized and progressive lenses available.
Eyeconic
Eyeconic sells premium sunglass styles from Oakley, Ray-Ban, Prada and others with prescriptions up to -20.00/+12.00. All lenses are made in the USA.
Best Brands for High Prescription Sunglasses
Along with the retailers above, these brands stand out for their high prescription sunglass options:
Oakley
Known for performance sports eyewear, Oakley also offers fashion-forward Rx sunglasses up to +/- 12 sph, 3 cyl powers. Their lightweight O Matter frames and High Definition Optics lenses are optimized for vision accuracy.
Ray-Ban
Iconic Ray-Ban styles like the Wayfarer and Aviator can be customized with prescriptions up to -10/+8. Their crystal G-15 lenses retain color perception while blocking glare.
Warby Parker
Warby Parker's affordable designer sunglasses can accommodate prescriptions between -9 to +9 powers sphere and -4 to +4 cylinder. Durable polycarbonate and impact-resistant high index 1.67 lenses available.
Maui Jim
Maui Jim is known for advanced lens technology like polarization and color-infusing HCL bronze. Their Rx sunglasses accommodate sphere powers between -10 to +8 and cylinders from -3 to +3.
Costa Del Mar
Costa's high performance sunglasses feature impact and scratch-resistant polycarbonate lenses. Their RX range covers -10/+8 sph, 4 cyl powers. Options include 580 plastic lenses that increase contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions About High Prescription Sunglasses
Can you get sunglasses with -10 prescription?
Yes, many retailers offer high prescription sunglasses up to -10 sph powers and beyond. However, lenses over -10 may require high index materials to maintain thickness. Popular brands like Warby Parker accommodate up to -10 prescriptions.
What prescription can you get sunglasses with?
Most retailers offer sunglasses for prescriptions roughly between -9 to +6 sphere powers and -4 to +4 cylinder powers. But specialty brands cater to much stronger prescriptions up to -20/+12 sph. Lens replacement services like Lensology also accommodate extreme prescriptions.
Can you put a strong prescription in any sunglasses?
Not always - some frames may not support thick high prescription lenses. Oversize or rimless styles in particular can be problematic. Custom Rx labs can advise on compatible frames based on your prescription strength.
Do all sunglasses offer UV protection?
No. Only sunglasses labeled as 100% UV blocking or UV400 filtering provide full ultraviolet protection. This is particularly important with prescription lenses which magnify incoming light. Verify UV blocking when buying Rx sunglasses.
Do taller prescription lenses look thicker?
Yes, lens height impacts thickness for stronger prescriptions. Lenses close to the cheeks appear thinnest. Smaller lens sizes like rounds and ovals maintain edge thinness with high prescriptions.
How do you choose sunglasses for astigmatism?
Look for precision surfacing like free-form digital lenses optimized for astigmatism. Polycarbonate lenses also provide crisper vision. Styles with adjustable nose pads allow tweaking position. Go with reputable brands for accuracy.
Choosing Sunglasses for Visual Comfort and Protection
With so many factors impacting lens thickness, it pays to shop carefully when seeking out high prescription sunglasses. Be sure to consider lens material, technologies and coatings along with frame size and style. Reputable retailers like those listed here can help you achieve an optimum balance of visual clarity, comfort and protection.
Don't settle for less when it comes to protecting your eyes. With a high quality pair of prescription sunglasses, you can comfortably enjoy the great outdoors - rain or shine. Enjoy the confidence of being able to find stylish sunglasses that help you see and look your best.
FAQs
Can you get prescription sunglasses for free?
Unfortunately, prescription sunglasses are rarely free. However, some health insurance plans offer vision benefits that can be applied to Rx sunglasses. And organizations like New Eyes for the Needy and Sight for Students can provide free or discounted prescription eyewear to those in need.
Are photochromic lenses good for prescription sunglasses?
Yes, photochromic or transition lenses that darken in sunlight can be very useful for prescription sunglasses. They offer the convenience of automatic tinting without having to swap between separate pairs of glasses. Brands like Transitions Optical provide transition lenses compatible with most prescriptions.
What are the best sunglass lens colors?
Gray, brown and green lenses are common colors that effectively reduce glare and eye strain in the sun. Mirrored lenses like blue, silver or gold reflect more light. Consider lens technology too - options like polarization cut reflective glare. Discuss needs with your optician to pick the best lens colors and treatments.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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