Your everyday reading or distance glasses allow you to see things clearly, but they can’t protect your eyes from the sun. For that, you’ll need prescription sunglasses.
What are prescription sunglasses?
Prescription sunglasses, which are designed to be worn outside in bright conditions, offer both vision correction and sun protection. They have an individual’s corrective prescription built into the lenses.
Like GUNNAR non-prescription sunglasses, prescription sunglasses also have dark, tinted lenses that block ultraviolet (UV) light and blue light. These features allow you to safely, comfortably, and clearly see the world while spending time outdoors.
Are prescription sunglasses worth it?
While purchasing prescription sunglasses is a significant investment, many people consider it a worthy one, especially those who spend a lot of time outside, driving, or using digital devices outdoors.
Not only will wearing prescription sunglasses make outdoor activities much easier, but they’ll also protect your eyes against conditions caused by excessive UV light exposure, such as macular degeneration and certain types of cataracts.
GUNNAR prescription sunglasses block 100 percent of UV light, as well as 90 percent of blue light, which is emitted from the sun and from digital devices, such as computers, iPads, and smartphones. When using digital devices outdoors, you’re essentially getting a double whammy of blue light exposure.
Blue light sunglasses not only block UV light, but also prevent adverse effects caused by using digital devices for long periods of time. Those adverse effects—including blurred vision, headaches, eye fatigue, and dry eyes—are caused by prolonged staring at digital screens and the corresponding exposure to blue light.
Prescription sunglasses can be used during any outdoor outing, but are particularly ideal for wearing while using digital screens in sunlit environments.
Do you still need prescription sunglasses if you wear contacts?
Even if you normally wear contacts and use regular sunglasses, it’s still good to have a pair of prescription sunglasses on hand. Doing so gives you the option to remove your contacts if they feel dry and become uncomfortable while you’re spending time outdoors on bright days.
Where can you get prescription sunglasses?
You can get prescription sunglasses by visiting an optometrist or optician or purchasing them online. Before buying a pair, it’s important to get an updated eye exam so that you can buy lenses with the correct prescription for your needs.
If you currently have a pair of sunglasses that you love that aren’t prescription, you can potentially get them updated to include prescription lenses. Almost any designer frame will be able to accommodate prescription lenses. Most low-quality sunglasses, however, don’t have the stability or structure for prescription lenses.
Are prescription sunglasses FSA eligible?
The good news is that prescription sunglasses are eligible for reimbursement with a flexible spending account (FSA). An FSA is a special account that you can set up if you have a health plan through your job. You can deposit money into your FSA and use that money to pay for certain out-of-pocket health care costs, including prescription sunglasses. The huge plus of an FSA is that you don’t pay taxes on this money.
For prescription sunglasses to be FSA eligible, they must be prescribed by an eye doctor and must be used to correct vision problems.
What styles do prescription sunglasses come in?
Prescription sunglasses not only serve to protect your eyes and help you feel more comfortable in the sun, but they can also act as a fashionable accessory.
GUNNAR offers prescription blue light sunglasses in several styles, including round lenses, square lenses, aviator lenses, rectangular lenses, and everything in between!
How much do prescription sunglasses cost?
The average cost of a pair of prescription sunglasses is between $200 and $500. The variance in price depends on many factors, including the tint, lens material, lens treatment, and level of UV protection. The price also varies depending on whether you choose single vision lenses or progressive lenses.
At GUNNAR, our prescription sunglasses range between $200 and $350.
Find your perfect style
GUNNAR prescription sunglasses are unisex, so whether you’re looking for women’s prescription sunglasses or men’s prescription sunglasses, we’re sure to have a pair that suits your personal style.
All of our prescription sunglasses, including those below, offer 100% UV protection and block 90% blue light. They’re all available in either single vision or progressive lenses. Single vision is the most common type of prescription lens, featuring one prescription power throughout the lens. Progressive lenses, on the other hand, are a type of multifocal lens for people who need corrective lenses to see distant and close-up objects.
Let’s take a look at a few of GUNNAR’s most popular prescription sunglasses.
Intercept Prescription Sunglasses
Looking for classic, retro-inspired prescription shades? Intercept prescription sunglasses feature a bold, square frame, ergonomic design, and UV and blue light blocking lenses. These stylish frames will keep your eyes safe and comfortable while using digital devices in the sunshine.
Intercept is available in five frame colors, including Onyx, Crystal, Merlot Onyx, Latte Fade, and Tortoise, and can accommodate prescriptions from -6 to +5.
Menlo Prescription Sunglasses
With their classic circular frame, Menlo prescription sunglasses perfectly complement a wide variety of face shapes. They block UV and blue light to protect your delicate eyes in sunlit environments.
Menlo is available in two fashionable frame colors—Onyx and Emerald—and can accommodate prescriptions from -6 to +5.
Maverick Prescription Sunglasses
Maverick prescription sunglasses exude class, confidence, and style. These aviator-style sunglasses feature a thinner frame, making them an excellent option for those who want a less bold look. They offer UV and blue light protection, and are sure to enhance your viewing experience when using digital devices outdoors.
Maverick is available in four fun frame colors, including Gunmetal, Black/Gold, Rose Gold, and Mint, and can accommodate prescriptions from -7 to +4.
The bottom line on prescription sunglasses
Prescription sunglasses offer two pairs of glasses in one: prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses. The lenses are tailored to your prescription and block UV and blue light, both of which can negatively affect your eyes.
Prescription sunglasses also provide a great opportunity for self-expression. With the wide variety of styles we offer at GUNNAR, you’re sure to find the perfect pair for your face shape and personal style.
Check out our full line of stylish prescription sunglasses.