Purchasing prescription sunglasses online opens up a world of options not found at your local optical shop. But with so many retailers, frames, lens choices, and specifications to consider, how do you make sure you find the ideal sunglasses tailored to your needs? This comprehensive guide provides insider tips for discovering that perfect pair.
The Digital Eyewear Revolution
In the past few years, the online eyewear industry has exploded as virtual try-on technology and at-home sampling have made buying glasses online easier than ever. The global digital eyewear market surpassed $3 billion in 2019 and is projected to keep seeing double-digit growth year over year. This tremendous expansion gives consumers access to an unprecedented selection of frames and prescription lens options.
Comparison shopping for the best prices and sales is easier now than when choices were limited to a few local stores. From budget-friendly staples to luxury designer brands, there’s something for everyone, all just a click away.
Key Benefits of Online Eyeglasses
While the vast selection appeals to most online shoppers looking for the best prescription sunglasses online, there are other compelling benefits
- Convenience: No more rushing to make appointments or standing around in crowded optical shops. Everything can be done from the comfort of home.
- Cost savings: Online retailers have less overhead, passing significant savings to customers. Prescription sunglasses purchased online can cost 25-40% less than at traditional brick-and-mortar stores.
- Try before you buy: Home try-on programs ship sample frames to your door so you can test out styles and sizes. Some retailers accept returns within 30 to 60 days as well.
- Vision tests: Many platforms allow you to take a vision test online to renew expired prescriptions before ordering glasses.
- Comparison shopping: It’s easy to evaluate multiple retailers and browse hundreds of frames to find the perfect match for your face, style, and budget.
Staying Stylish with Prescription Sunglasses
While protecting your eyes with UV-blocking lenses is the primary purpose of sunglasses, they’re also a fun way to express your personal style. The wide selection of frames and lens colors online gives you endless options to accessorize with stylish shades.
Look for on-trend frame shapes and materials each season that complement your wardrobe and aesthetic. Bold, chunky, retro-inspired frames are popular for making a statement. Sleek, minimalist wireframes in metallic colors work for a contemporary vibe. Classic aviator and Wayfarer silhouettes add timeless style.
Customize your sunglasses further with lens colors like gray, brown, and rose to change the tint. Gradient lenses fade from dark at the top to lighter at the bottom for a cool ombre effect. Or go bold with mirrored lenses that really reflect your personality.
Be adventurous and opt for a totally different frame style or color than your traditional go-to. The great thing about sunglasses is you can experiment with various looks for different occasions. Have fun showcasing your personal flair while protecting your eyes in fashionable prescription shades.
Choosing the Right Prescription Sunglasses
While going online makes getting sunglasses easy and affordable, you still want to get the specifics right. Keep these key tips in mind:
- Have your prescription verified to ensure your vision needs are met accurately. Update outdated prescriptions before ordering online.
- Determine your pupillary distance so lenses align properly with your eyes and reduce distortion or headaches. Many retailers provide easy PD measurement tools.
- Select lens materials and options like polarized, UV blocking, or blue light filtering coatings based on how you’ll use your sunglasses. Understand the differences.
- Find frames to complement your facial features. Consider size, shape, bridge width, and temples to accentuate your natural bone structure.
- Review return policies in case the glasses don’t work out. Look for full refunds within 30 days.
- Read online reviews and feedback to determine which retailers offer the best quality, service, prices, and selection to meet your expectations.
Expert Advice on Choosing Frames
The frames you choose impact both vision and style. Follow tips from top eyewear experts when selecting frames online:
- Contrast your frames with your face shape. Choose angular frames to soften round faces or curved frames to offset square jaws.
- Prioritize lens coverage for better UV protection. Larger frames help shield eyes.
- Mind the bridge. Measure the space between your eyes to pick frames that fit comfortably without gapping.
- Focus on measurements. Pay attention to standard frame sizes and dimensions to find the best facial fit.
- Flatter your features. Cat-eye and winged frames draw attention to the eyes while aviators complement strong jawlines.
- Consider material. Plastic or acetate frames withstand more wear than metal frames which can bend and lose shape.
Thoughtfully selected frames suited to facial features and proportions help achieve both sharp vision and excellent style.
Lens Options: Finding What’s Right for You
From photochromic to polarized lenses, there are many choices when it comes to lenses. Here’s an overview of key options to consider based on your vision needs and how you’ll use your sunglasses:
- Single vision offers distortion-free viewing at one set focal distance. Ideal for crisp, uncompromised vision.
- Bifocals allow you to see both near and far with precision by incorporating two prescriptions in one lens.
- Progressive lenses provide continuous, uninterrupted vision at any distance thanks to a gradient of prescriptions blended in one lens.
- Photochromic lenses automatically adjust their darkness when exposed to UV light, combining correction with protection.
- Polarized lenses eliminate glare from light reflection. Great for water sports and driving.
- Anti-reflective coating removes distracting lens reflections and cuts down on eye fatigue.
- Blue light filtering lenses block high-energy visible light from digital devices that can disrupt sleep.
With some guided research into frame styles and lens options using online tools and resources, you’ll be able to discover incredible prescription sunglasses tailored to your unique needs and style – all from the convenience of home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are online vision tests as thorough as in-person exams?
While online vision tests provide a convenient way to renew expired prescriptions, comprehensive in-person eye exams periodically are still recommended for complete eye health evaluations.
2. How do I know I’m measuring my pupillary distance correctly?
Have someone assist you and double-check measurements. Retailers also provide guides. Precise PD helps ensure lenses line up properly with your eyes.
3. What’s the best way to clean prescription lenses?
Use a microfiber cloth with a small amount of mild soap and water to gently wipe down lenses. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch.
4. Should I choose glass or plastic lenses?
Plastic is preferable for eyeglasses that take more wear and tear. Glass is heavier but offers very clear optics. Consider your lifestyle and preferences.
Conclusion
The online prescription sunglasses market makes finding customized shades easy. With proper measurements, research into frame and lens options, virtual try-ons, sample shipping, and price comparisons, you can conveniently discover the ideal pair tailored for you. The endless selections mean your perfect prescription sunglasses are just a click away.