Are you constantly switching between your prescription glasses and multiple pairs of glasses for different activities like reading, computer work, or driving? If so, one prescription of progressive glasses may be the solution for you.
Progressive glasses, also known as multifocal lenses, can correct your vision at all distances using just one pair of glasses. Unlike other bifocal or trifocal lenses, progressive lenses have no visible lines or abrupt changes in image quality. Instead, these multifocal lenses provide a seamless transition and gradual shift in lens power from the top to the bottom of the trifocal lens, effectively making them better than the bifocal lenses and trifocal lenses.
In this post, we’ll guide you through ordering progressive glasses online, showing you how to save time and money. Additionally, we’ll discuss how to choose the best progressive lenses for your needs, adapt to progressive lenses, avoid common issues, and what to look for when selecting distance glasses from an online retailer.
Choosing the right progressive lenses for your needs
Progressive lenses come in various types and designs tailored to your vision correction needs and preferences. Here’s a brief overview of the main types of progressive lens and lenses and their advantages and disadvantages:
- Standard progressives: These are the most widely used and affordable progressive lenses. They provide a broad field for distance vision, a narrow one for intermediate vision, and a small one for near vision. They suit most individuals who need vision correction at all distances. However, some users might experience peripheral vision distortion or eye strain.
- Premium progressives: These premium progressives are a more advanced and personalized form of progressive lenses. They offer a wider field for intermediate and near-distance vision and less peripheral distortion. These premium progressive lenses are designed to match your specific prescription, frame size, and eye measurements. They provide more comfort and better visual clarity than standard progressives but are more expensive and may take longer to manufacture.
- Specialty progressives: These are custom-made progressive lenses good only for specific purposes or everyday activities, such as computer use, sports, driving, or reading. They have different lens powers and zones to optimize your vision and visual clarity for the specific task. While they can be a great addition to your everyday wear progressive lenses, they may not be suitable for all situations.
When selecting the best progressive lenses for your needs, consider the following questions:
- How much vision correction do you require at different distances?
- What activities or hobbies do you frequently engage in that require glasses?
- What’s your budget and preference for progressive lenses?
- How frequently do you wear glasses?
You can also seek guidance on lens options and recommendations from your eye doctor or online retailer.
Adjusting to progressive lenses and avoiding common issues
Getting used to wearing progressive glasses or lenses may require some time, especially if you’re new to using multifocal lenses or have a strong prescription that requires strong prescription eyewear. Here are some tips on how to wear, use, and care for your own progressive lenses:
- Wear your progressive glasses as frequently as possible. The more you wear them, the quicker your eyes and brain adapt to them. Avoid reverting to your old glasses or contact lenses, which may confuse your eyes and slow the adjustment process.
- When looking at objects at different distances, move your head rather than your eyes. To see objects in the distance, look through the top part of the lens. For mid-range vision, use the middle of the lens, and for near vision, the bottom part. Avoid looking through the lens’s sides or corners as this can cause distortion or blurriness.
- Start with simple tasks that require minimal eye movement, like reading or watching TV, and gradually work your way up to more complex tasks like computer work, driving, or sports. This approach will help you acclimate to your new lenses and understand how they function.
Remember, patience is key. It may take at least two weeks to fully adjust to your new lenses. If initial discomfort or minor issues such as visual distortions, dizziness, or headaches persist, contact your eye doctor or online retailer for assistance. However, keep in mind that these are normal during the initial adjustment period and typically resolve with time.
Ordering progressive glasses online: Saving time and money
Buying progressive glasses online is a convenient and affordable way to correct your vision. It offers a wide variety of frames and lenses, allows you to compare prices and reviews, and delivers your new pair of glasses right to your doorstep. Here’s how you can order progressive glasses online:
- Get an eye exam and a valid prescription. You’ll need an updated eye exam and a valid prescription from your optometrist. Your prescription should include sphere and cylinder values for distance and near vision, along with your ADD or NV value for reading power. You might also need your pupillary distance (PD) and segment height (SH) measurements. If you don’t have these, you can ask your optometrist or use an online tool to measure them.
- Choose your frames and lenses. Browse the online retailer’s selection of frames and lenses. You can filter by frame style, size, color, material, and price. Many websites have a virtual try-on feature or allow you to upload a photo to see how the frames would look on you. After choosing your frames, select your lens type and additional features such as anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, or UV protection coatings.
- Enter your prescription and measurements. Upload a copy of your prescription or manually enter the values. Also, input your PD and SH measurements if required. Double-check all information for accuracy.
- Place your order and await delivery. You can order and pay online once your prescription and measurements are entered. After your order is confirmed, your glasses will be made and shipped within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the retailer.
Choosing a reputable online retailer
While ordering online can save you time and money, it’s crucial to choose a reliable retailer. Here’s what you should look for:
- Quality: Look for retailers using high-quality materials and state-of-the-art equipment. Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into product quality.
- Price: Ensure the retailer offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees and provides discounts or promotions.
- Customer service: Opt for retailers with excellent customer service, easy-to-navigate websites, and generous return policies.
- Warranty: A good retailer will offer a warranty or guarantee covering defects or damages to your glasses and possibly even a satisfaction guarantee that allows returns if you’re not pleased with your purchase.
Recommended online retailers
If you’re searching for trustworthy online retailers for progressive glasses, consider the following:
- Zenni Optical: Known for affordability, Zenni offers a wide range of frames and lenses starting at $44.95 for a complete pair of digital free-form progressive glasses. They have a 30-day return policy and a one-year warranty.
- Warby Parker: Offering a curated selection of frames and lenses, Warby Parker is another great choice. Prices start at $295 for a complete pair of digital free-form progressive glasses. They offer a 30-day return policy and a one-year scratch-free guarantee.
- EyeBuyDirect: A reliable and affordable source for progressive glasses. They offer a wide variety of frames and lenses, starting from $69 for a complete pair of digital free-form progressive glasses, with a 14-day return policy and a one-year warranty.
In conclusion, progressive glasses offer an excellent solution for vision correction at all distances, all within one pair of glasses. Ordering them online can save you time and money. However, remember to carefully choose the best lenses for your needs, adapt to your new glasses, and select the perfect pair of progressive prescription glasses from a reputable online retailer.