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2) THE LENS MATERIAL AND COATINGS:

As with prescription glasses, sunglasses come in different materials including glass and plastic.  Glass will be heavier but more scratch resistant.  Plastics are lighter materials.  Different types of plastic will vary on optical quality and scratch resistance.  Coatings are available to reduce reflections and to improve scratch resistance. Sunglasses that also include anti-reflection coatings on the back surface of the lens are worth consideration. There are also anti-smudge and anti-fog coatings. Mirror coatings will also help to reduce the light and are available at differing intensities and colours producing different effects on vision.

3) THE LENS PRESCRIPTION:

Many people with prescription glasses enjoy a separate pair of prescription sunglasses for visual comfort and eye protection. 

Sunglasses are also available as progressive or bifocal lenses.  This will allow you to read comfortably outside, or see the vehicle dashboard instruments clearly or tie those fishing lures without have to switch to another pair of glasses.

Contact lens wearers might consider two pairs of sunglasses – a prescription pair when not wearing contacts and a non-prescription pair for when they are wearing their contacts.  Even if the contact lenses offer some UV protection, non-prescription sunglasses will likely give more visual comfort by reducing the amount of light with the tint and protection of the skin around the eyes with the UV filter.

4) THE FRAME:

Like any eyeglass frame a sunglass frame should fit properly, especially around the nose and the ears – not too loose or too tight causing discomfort.  Sunglass eye sizes are ideally a little larger to offer more light protection.   Frames with a wrap shape are best at reducing the amount of light coming in from around the edges.  Keep in mind that not all sizes and shapes of sunglass frames and lenses will be available for all eyeglass prescriptions.  

A method of securing the sunglasses so that they do not fall off is useful with active outdoor sports or if around water. 

5) THE COST:

The cost of sunglasses can range quite a bit.  If you are interested in non-prescription sunglasses be sure they have 100% UV protection.  The lenses should also have good optical quality for good clarity.  Too many distortions might also cause headaches and/or eyestrain.  Some inexpensive plastic sunglass lenses without a scratch resistant coating may scratch very easily.  The frame should also be comfortable and fit well.

Prescription sunglasses will be more expensive and will vary depending on the frame and lenses that are chosen.  Sometimes the costs can be minimized.  If you need new glasses a photochromic pair will also serve as a sunglass.  An eyeglass frame that you are not currently using but is still in good condition might make a great pair of sunglasses.  

You may know precisely the type of sunglass lens you are looking for.  However, if you would like a little more information, please let the knowledgeable staff help you choose the sunglass that best meets your needs.  Just call Thunder Bay Eye Care.  They can show you many different lens options and frame styles in person.  You can also order non-prescription sunglasses online here.

We want you to love your sunglasses! 

To assess your eye health and update your prescription please call to book an appointment for an eye examination with a Thunder Bay Eye Care optometrist.