Years ago, glass was the only option available for lenses, but today a wide range of lens materials are available to match all lifestyles. In fact, less than six percent of glasses sold today are made of actual glass. Your personal lens material selection will depend on your level of activity, comfort, vision needs and the recommendation of your eye care provider. Explore the different options below:
STANDARD PLASTIC
Plastic lenses are much lighter than glass lenses and widely prescribed for their comfort and durability. Many factors contribute to their popularity, including affordability.
A scratch-resistant coating can be applied to prevent unwanted scuffs and marks.
POLYCARBONATE
Benefits: No-distortion, shatterproof lens for kids and active adults
Polycarbonate lenses are thinner and lighter than standard plastic varieties and much more durable. This makes it ideal for strong prescriptions because it corrects vision without adding thickness that can distort the wearer's appearance, which explains its more premium price.
Best of all, polycarbonate lenses are virtually unbreakable, making them a great choice for children and active adults.
MID-INDEX PLASTIC
Benefits: Light, slim; compatible with most treatments
Mid-index lenses are slimmer and lighter than standard plastic types. A variety of protective treatments can be applied, including photochromic and no-glare coatings.
Slightly stronger prescriptions for farsightedness typically require a thicker lens. Mid-index lenses minimize thickness in these prescriptions and are generally more affordable than high-index plastic materials.
HIGH-INDEX PLASTIC
Benefits: Thinner, lightweight lens for stronger prescriptions
Eyeglass wearers are no longer limited to thick, heavy glasses. High-index plastic lenses are slim and sleek, providing an alternative option for strong prescriptions.
High-index lenses are typically more expensive than standard plastic and mid-index varieties but offer a wider choice of frames for people with stronger prescriptions.
Single Vision Lenses
Single Vision Lenses are for correction of
one field of vision. Either for distance, intermediate (computer), or near vision (reading).
Progressive Lenses
True "multifocal" lenses that provide a seamless progression of many lens powers for all viewing distances. With progressive lenses, you can see clearly across the room and into the distance.
Multifocal Lenses
Enable the wearer to have multiple prescriptions built into the lens so only one pair is required for different uses, eg for use at distance and for reading.
Transitional Lenses
These are "All-in-One lenses. They automatically adjust from clear to dark depending on your exposure to direct sunlight.
In the past, clear eyewear was enough. In bright light conditions, polarized sunglasses were enough. This is no longer true. Today our lives are strongly influenced by the car, which has changed the way we experience the outdoors. We need a third category of lenses in our modern, vehicle-centered world. Drivewear.
Drivewear lenses are capable of sensing and reacting to varying light conditions both outside and behind the windscreen of the car. From bright sunlight accompanied by intense, blinding glare, to overcast inclement conditions, Drivewear lenses provide the wearer with the appropriate visual solution.
Drivewear Lenses In Low Light Conditions
Drivewear Lenses Behind The Windscreen
