Are Prescription Sunglasses Worth It?

Let’s face it: Eyeglasses can be expensive. While the benefits of clear vision are definitely worth the price, many people wonder if prescription sunglasses are a worthwhile investment. Some turn to common alternatives like clip-ons, transition lenses, combining contacts with regular sunglasses, or simply wearing their sunglasses over their prescription eyeglasses. 

If you’re wondering whether prescription sunglasses are worth the cost, keep reading to learn more about their benefits, alternatives to consider, and how to choose the right solution for your needs. 

What Are Prescription Sunglasses?

Prescription sunglasses are just like regular eyeglasses, but with tinted lenses to protect your eyes from harsh sunlight. Like eyeglasses, they’re available with single vision, bifocal, and progressive lenses — plus, they can be polarized or mirrored. Most regular frames can be ordered as sunglasses, giving you a wide range of styles and colors to choose from. 

Benefits of Prescription Sunglasses

The benefits of prescription sunglasses include:

• Clear vision outdoors: They combine corrective lenses with sun protection, eliminating the need to switch between glasses and sunglasses. 
• UV protection: By blocking UV rays, they can reduce your risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye problems. 
• Reduced glare: Polarized lenses reduce glare while driving, spending time at the beach, lounging around the pool, or exploring the snow-covered hills. 
• Comfort and eye health: Reducing eye strain and squinting can help prevent headaches and discomfort caused by exposure to bright sunlight. 
• Convenience: They eliminate the hassle of layering two pairs of glasses or constantly switching between them.

Common Alternatives to Prescription Sunglasses

Prescription sunglasses aren’t the only option for sun-friendly vision correction. Some people opt for alternatives like:

• Transition/photochromic lenses: These lenses darken when exposed to sunlight and turn transparent again while indoors. However, they don’t always work well while driving, and some brands take longer to adjust than others, especially in cold weather. 
• Clip-on sunglasses: Clip-on sunglasses can be attached to your eyeglasses when you need them and taken off when you don’t. They’re affordable, but often less stylish and low-quality. 
• Contacts and sunglasses: Those who wear contacts can wear regular sunglasses at the same time. While this works great for some, not everyone likes or can wear contacts.
• Over-the-glasses sunglasses: While functional, these sunglasses are typically bulky and less fashionable.

Cost Considerations

While budget options are available, quality prescription sunglasses are an investment. Depending on the frames, lenses, and coatings you choose, they can be just as — if not more — expensive than prescription eyeglasses, especially if you opt for designer frames. However, their long-term benefits — including longevity, durability, enhanced protection, and eye health advantages — often outweigh the initial cost. Plus, insurance coverage or package deals may reduce the price, making them more affordable. 

Who Should Consider Prescription Sunglasses?

So, who should consider prescription sunglasses? People who spend significant time outdoors or in the car — commuters, athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, drivers, or travelers — can definitely benefit from them, especially if they struggle with light sensitivity or other eye problems. 

They’re also great for style-conscious individuals who want a balance between vision correction and fashion, along with anyone who’s frustrated with alternatives like clip-ons or transition lenses.

If you typically wear contacts, you can get by most of the time with regular sunglasses, since you don’t need the corrective benefits of prescription lenses, on top of your contacts. However, prescription sunglasses are nice to have around for the times when you can’t wear contacts, such as when you’re splashing around at the pool or are battling eye irritation.

Choosing the Right Prescription Sunglasses

If you’ve decided to invest in prescription sunglasses, it’s important to get the right pair for your needs, which is why it’s a good idea to get a professional fitting at an eyeglass store. Optical professionals can help you choose the right lens options, whether it’s tinted, polarized, gradient, mirrored, or anti-reflective coatings. They’ll recommend durable, comfortable frames that fit your lifestyle and express your personality. 

Prescription Sunglasses at Wolcott Optical

If you’re looking for prescription sunglasses in Salt Lake City, Utah, trust the professionals at Wolcott Optical. Our team members would love to help you choose sunglasses that combine clear vision, UV protection, convenience, and style, whether you need corrective lenses or not. Come visit us to try on different frames, explore your options, and consult with experts about whether prescription sunglasses are right for you. And if you have any questions about what eyewear we offer, feel free to contact us.