Eye health resource
A Buying Guide for Prescription Sunglasses
Prescription sunglasses should combine an accurate prescription with reliable UV protection, comfortable fit, and lens options that match how you use them. Learn what to know about UV400, polarization, frame shape, and photochromic lenses.
Reviewed for accuracy by Justin Bazan, OD on .
A good pair of prescription sunglasses should do two jobs at once: provide the vision correction you need and block ultraviolet radiation. The darkest-looking lens is not necessarily the most protective, and polarization is useful for glare but is not the same thing as UV protection.
Start With 99–100% UVA and UVB Protection
Look for sunglasses labeled to block 99–100% of UVA and UVB radiation or to provide UV400 protection. Lens darkness and color do not tell you how much ultraviolet radiation is being blocked.
UV protection is important whether the sunglasses are prescription or non-prescription. Larger lenses, good frame coverage, and wraparound designs can also reduce sunlight reaching the eyes from the side.
Make Sure the Frame Works With Your Prescription
Not every frame is equally suitable for every prescription. Very large lenses, very small lenses, or highly curved wraparound frames can change lens thickness, weight, optics, or what can be manufactured accurately.
The best choice depends on the prescription, pupillary measurements, lens material, frame shape, and how the sunglasses will be used. For stronger prescriptions or specialty designs, choosing the frame and lens together is usually better than selecting a frame first and assuming any lens can be added later.
What Does Polarization Do?
Polarized lenses reduce reflected glare from surfaces such as roads, water, and snow. That can make outdoor vision more comfortable and is especially useful for driving, boating, fishing, and other glare-heavy activities.
Polarization does not automatically mean UV protection. A polarized sunglass should still be verified for appropriate UVA and UVB blocking.
What About Photochromic Lenses?
Photochromic lenses darken in response to ultraviolet light and can be convenient for people who want one pair that changes between indoor and outdoor environments.
They may not darken as much inside a car because most modern windshields block much of the UV that activates standard photochromic lenses. Some newer photochromic products are designed to respond to a broader range of light, but performance varies by lens.
For someone who spends substantial time driving or wants consistently dark sun protection, a dedicated pair of prescription sunglasses may still be preferable.
Choose Lens Material for the Activity
Lens material affects weight, thickness, optics, and impact resistance. Polycarbonate and other impact-resistant materials are often useful for active lifestyles, but the right choice depends on the prescription and activity.
Ordinary fashion sunglasses are not the same as sports-protective eyewear. If impact protection is the goal, the frame and lenses should be designed for that activity.
Are Mirror Coatings, Gradient Tints, or Anti-Reflective Coatings Necessary?
These features can be useful, but they serve different purposes:
- Mirror coatings can reduce the amount of visible light entering the lens and change the appearance of the sunglasses.
- Gradient tints are darker at the top and lighter toward the bottom, which some people prefer for driving or mixed-distance use.
- Anti-reflective treatment on the back surface can reduce reflections coming from behind the wearer.
None of these features should replace verified UV protection.
Prescription Sunglasses at Park Slope Eye
Park Slope Eye offers prescription sunglasses and can help match the frame, prescription, lens material, tint, polarization, and other options to how you plan to use them. Our optical selection includes independent frame brands as well as children's eyewear.
You are not required to purchase eyewear from Park Slope Eye in order to receive your prescription. We are happy to provide a quote and help compare frame and lens options when you are considering new eyewear.
Explore our sunglasses and eyeglass frames and lenses, or book an eye exam online if you need an updated prescription.
Originally published . Substantially updated .