Many individuals experience vision problems that require the assistance of prescription eyewear. In Ireland, a country with a low percentage of people wearing glasses, there is some concern around eye health, exacerbated by the fact that 48% of the population doesn’t know how regularly they should visit an optician for a check-up.
Many of these individuals will need to wear glasses and could require additional protective eyewear in the summer, as the sun is known to worsen retinal damage. As such, a number of those with vision issues need to contend with switching back and forth between their corrective and protective eyewear, which can be a hassle.
Fortunately, this is where versatile eyewear that offers correction and protection comes in. Essentially prescription eyewear that can be tinted or darkened in several ways, these glasses are convenient solutions for those who don’t want to keep swapping out their specs and sunnies. Three popular choices often considered are clip-on sunglasses, transition lenses, and prescription sunglasses. Each has advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to weigh them to make an informed decision. Below is a closer look at these popular sunglass choices to help you decide which is right for your needs.
Clip-on sunglasses
Clip-on sunglasses are a convenient and cost-effective choice. These tinted sunglasses attachments can be easily clipped onto existing frames when needed, providing immediate protection from the sun. These clip-on sunglasses are available in various styles, colours, and sizes to suit different frames that they are typically sold with—such as the Takumi TK1073 for cat-eye frames and EasyClip EC421 for rectangular frames. They also offer a quick transition from indoor to outdoor environments, as the lenses don’t have to change their current tints.
One advantage of clip-on sunglasses is their affordability compared to other options. Moreover, since clip-ons can be easily removed, they offer the flexibility to switch between sunglasses and regular eyeglasses, making them a versatile choice for people who spend a significant amount of time indoors and outdoors. However, clip-ons may not fit securely on all frames, which can be bothersome and potentially lead to loss or damage if they fall off. They may also lack complete coverage, leaving room for sun rays to enter from the sides.
Transition lenses
Transition lenses, also known as photochromic lenses, are hands-free. These lenses darken automatically when exposed to UV light, effectively functioning as sunglasses outdoors, and become clear again indoors or in low light conditions.
The seamless shifting of tint within transition lenses is especially appealing to people who want zero human intervention in their eyewear. Additionally, transition lenses are available in multiple colours for different lighting conditions, such as the Toohey Sunglasses in a Black / Green Mirror and the LGR Tripoli in a Black / Yellow Gradient. One downside of transition lenses is that they may not darken as much as traditional sunglasses, causing discomfort for some individuals in extremely bright environments. Additionally, transitioning speed can vary, meaning lenses may not adjust rapidly enough for certain situations.
Prescription sunglasses
Prescription sunglasses, as the name suggests, are sunglasses with prescription lenses specifically customised to address individual vision requirements. This option can be particularly beneficial for those who require strong eyeglass prescriptions, as they offer improved peripheral vision. Prescription sunglasses are available in various lens colours, coatings, and designs, such as the timeless Ray-Ban New Wayfarer or sleek new Roka Lockhart Sunglasses. They offer superior sun protection, often incorporating polarised lenses to reduce glare and enhance visual comfort.
The primary advantage of prescription sunglasses is the uncompromised optical quality they provide. Because the prescription lenses are designed to fit the individual’s exact eye measurements, they offer the best possible visual acuity. That said, it’s important to consider that prescription sunglasses can be the most expensive option, especially for those with high index or specialised lens material. Furthermore, prescription sunglasses may not provide the same convenience as clip-ons or transitions for someone who prefers to switch between regular glasses and sunglasses frequently, meaning they’re more suitable for those who spend extended periods outside.
Which is the best choice?
Ultimately, the choice between clip-on sunglasses, transition lenses, and prescription sunglasses depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and vision requirements. If you prioritise convenience and affordability, clip-on sunglasses may be the best option for occasional sun protection. On the other hand, if you frequently transition between indoor and outdoor environments, transition lenses offer the most ease and versatility. If you have a high prescription and prefer optimal vision quality, prescription sunglasses are worth investing in. Regardless of your choice, wearing any form of sun protection is crucial to shield your eyes from the harmful effects of UV rays.