
Choosing Glasses and Sunglasses
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. Lens material selection will depend on children’s level of activity, comfort, vision needs and the recommendation of their eye care provider. Explore the different options below:
Composite
Benefits: Varied materials; thin, durable lens
Composite lenses incorporate polycarbonate, Trivex®, and other ophthalmic materials.
Designed to accommodate most eyeglass wearers, lightweight composite lenses are compatible with most protective treatments, including no-glare, photochromic and scratch-resistant coatings.
Trivex® lenses are virtually weightless—an attractive quality for those who wear glasses all day long. They are similar to polycarbonate varieties in durability, but outperform the competition when it comes to clarity. They also block UVA and UVB rays, and hold up to abrasives, such as household cleaners.
Standard Plastic
Benefits: Lightweight, impact resistant, widely prescribed
Plastic lenses are much lighter than glass lenses and widely prescribed for their comfort, durability, and impact resistance. Many factors contribute to their popularity, including affordability, safety, and a myriad of design options.
A scratch-resistant coating can be applied to prevent unwanted scuffs and marks.
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 also 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, since the lenses are not bulky. Wearers benefit from a crisp, clear field of vision and comfort, even during prolonged use. When treated with a no-glare coating, high-index lenses sharpen sight considerably—especially at night.
Polycarbonate
Benefits: No-distortion, shatterproof lens for kids, active adults
Polycarbonate lenses are thinner and lighter than standard plastic varieties, and also much more durable. Polycarbonate is ideal for strong prescriptions because it corrects vision without adding thickness, which can distort the wearer’s appearance. Best of all, polycarbonate lenses are virtually unbreakable, making them a great choice for children and active adults.
Learn more about high-definition lenses here.
Lens Guide
Type |
Features & Benefits |
Recommended For: |
No-Glare |
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High-Index Plastic Material |
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Photochromic |
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Polarized |
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Polycarbonate, Polyurethane and Trivex |
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Progressive |
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HD |
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