How to Pick
Prescription Sunglasses
Without Losing Your Cool How to Pick
Prescription Sunglasses
Without Losing Your Cool

If you need glasses to see, sunny days can feel like a constant compromise. You can either wear your regular glasses and squint through the glare, or switch to sunglasses and see the world as an abstract blur.

That’s where prescription sunglasses, the multitasking MVPs of eyewear, come in. These gems let you actually see where you’re going and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. A double win, to be sure.

They’re not just practical; they’re essential. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to cataracts, degeneration, and premature aging around the eyes. Plus, no one wants to be blinded by the glare of the sun while driving.

If you remember one thing today, make it this: not all sunglasses are created equal. That pink-tinted pair may jive with your swimsuit, but the real magic lies in their ability (or lack thereof) to protect your eyes from UV rays. Look for lenses with 100% UVA and UVB protection. Bonus points if they also block blue light, which can reduce eye strain and fatigue. 

Pro Tip: Feel free to check out recent trends for sunglasses, but don’t fall for the “darker is better” myth. Lens color has nothing to do with UV protection, so choose your favorite tint.

Prescription sunglasses aren’t a one-lens-fits-all deal. Different lifestyles call for different types of lenses. 

1. Polarized sunglasses: Glare isn’t fair – here’s how to combat it. Say goodbye to squinting through the glare bouncing off water, snow, or freshly waxed car hoods. Polarized lenses cut through reflected light like a pro. They’re ideal for beach bums, skiers, fly fishers, and anyone who spends time around shiny surfaces.

2. Transition Lenses: These shapeshifters adjust their tint based on the lighting. Ideal for those who can’t stand swapping between glasses and sunglasses, transition glasses pull the ultimate double-duty. Just note that they don’t darken much in cars, thanks to UV-blocking windshields.

3. Reader Sunglasses: Devouring a novel by the pool just got considerably more relaxing. Reader sunglasses combine magnification with sun protection, so you don’t need to choose between squinting and shade.

4. Progressive Sunglasses: If you need help seeing both near and far, progressive lenses were made for you. These provide a smooth transition between prescriptions – no awkward bifocal lines in sight.  

Sunglasses aren’t just functional, of course: they’re also a fashion statement. Picking the right frames can elevate your look faster than you can say “cat-eye.” 

Know Your Face Shape: General eyewear wisdom will tell you that rounder faces should lean towards angular frames to balance them out, while those with sharper features should look to softer shapes. Angular frames like squares or rectangles will create contrast and definition for round faces, while round or oval frames will soften strong jawlines. If you have a heart-shaped face, cat-eye or aviator styles will help balance wider foreheads and narrow chins. And if you have an oval-shaped face, lucky you – you can pull off just about any style.

Play With Trends: Feeling bold? Oversized frames scream confidence. Love a vintage vibe? Channel the ‘70s with retro shapes, like aviators or circles. Prefer a timelessly sophisticated look? Try an oversized cat-eye a la Audrey Hepburn, or a pint-sized oval for a Matrix-level cool factor.

Invest in Versatility: Can’t decide? We can’t blame you, and we certainly won’t stop you from adding multiple pairs to your cart. A playful pair for brunch and a sleeker option for work ensures you’ve always got the right shades for the occasion.

Yes, prescription sunglasses come with a higher price tag than their over-the-counter cousins. After all, they’re cutting-edge tech tailored to your eyes, and your eyes only. But before you clutch your wallet, remember this: investing in quality lenses and frames pays off in the long run.

From durable materials to scratch-resistant coatings, premium sunglasses last longer and provide better protection. Plus, if you’re prone to losing or sitting on your glasses (we’ve all been there), springing for a sturdy pair can save you money on replacements.

Budget Hack: Consider clip-on sunglasses if you’re looking for a more affordable alternative. These snap onto your regular prescription pair, offering sun protection for less. Just keep in mind you won’t have access to the same range of styles if you go this route.

Your new prescription sunglasses do a lot to keep your eyes safe and your style effortlessly on-point. The least you can do is give them some proper TLC. Plus, that ensures they’ll be your steadfast companions for many sunny days to come.

Make sure you store your prescription sunglasses in a hard case whenever they’re not in use and keep them out of extreme heat. Leaving them on your dash or, heavens forbid, the hood of your car is a no-no if you want to keep them pristine. Clean them with a microfiber cloth and a gentle, lens-safe cleaner – don’t let us catch you polishing up with your shirt sleeve. We won’t be mad, but we will be disappointed.

A little work goes a long way in keeping your lenses scratch-free and your vision crystal clear.

At eyebobs, we know a thing or two about making eyewear that works as hard as you do (and looks effortlessly cool all the while). So, what are you waiting for? Take a peek at our prescription sunglasses collection and find your new favorite pair. Because protecting your eyes should never mean sacrificing your style.