How Do People With Prescription Glasses Wear Sunglasses?

You know, wearing sunglasses is such a simple pleasure, but when you already have prescription glasses, things get a bit tricky. I’ve been in this exact situation and figured it would be helpful to lay out all the options, so you know what’s available and what might work best for you. Let’s go over the various ways people with prescription glasses can wear sunglasses, and I’ll give you some insights on what to consider before making a choice.

Image by Jonathan Paul

Why Regular Sunglasses Don’t Work for Prescription Glasses Wearers

Let’s start with the basics. Why can’t you just pop on a regular pair of sunglasses? The problem is, regular sunglasses don’t come with your prescription, so while they’ll shield your eyes from the sun, they won’t help you see clearly. For those of us who need corrective lenses to see well, this presents a bit of a challenge. It’s like trading off between being able to see clearly and protecting your eyes from UV rays.

But don’t worry; there are solutions out there. Let’s walk through the different ways you can get that sweet, sweet UV protection without compromising your vision.

Option 1: Prescription Sunglasses

One of the simplest options is prescription sunglasses. These are essentially your normal glasses but with tinted lenses that protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. You can choose different tints, colors, and lens coatings based on your preferences. Prescription sunglasses work just like your regular glasses but give you the added benefit of sun protection.

Pros

• Offers clear vision since they are custom-made with your prescription.
• Protects your eyes from harmful UV rays and glare.
• You can pick different styles and frames to match your fashion sense.

Cons

• Can be expensive since you need to purchase a whole separate pair of glasses.
• You’ll have to carry both your regular prescription glasses and sunglasses with you, switching between them.

For me, I found prescription sunglasses to be a stylish and practical option, but if you lose things easily (like I do), it can be a bit of a pain to keep track of both pairs.

Option 2: Clip-On Sunglasses

If you already have a favorite pair of prescription glasses, clip-on sunglasses might be worth considering. Clip-ons are lenses that attach to the front of your regular glasses. You can quickly snap them on when you step out into the sunlight and take them off when you’re back indoors. Some come with magnets, making them even easier to use.

Pros

• Convenient since you don’t need a whole separate pair of glasses.
• More affordable than buying prescription sunglasses.
• Easy to use—just clip them on and off as needed.

Cons

• They don’t always fit perfectly with every frame, which can look awkward.
• Quality of UV protection may vary based on the clip-on.
• They can scratch your glasses if not handled carefully.

I’ve tried these myself, and they do the job, but let’s be honest, they’re not the most fashionable solution out there. However, for someone who’s more about practicality than style, clip-ons can be a great choice.

Option 3: Transition Lenses (Photochromic Lenses)

Now, if you’re someone who hates the idea of switching between glasses, transition lenses (or photochromic lenses) are a good option. These lenses automatically darken when you go outside and return to being clear when you’re indoors. Essentially, you get the best of both worlds—prescription glasses and sunglasses rolled into one.

Pros

• Super convenient—you don’t have to carry two pairs of glasses.
• Protects your eyes from harmful UV rays.
• Available in various colors and styles.

Cons

• Transition time can be slow, especially in very bright or cold weather.
• They don’t darken as much when you’re inside a car, as most car windshields block UV light.
• May not get as dark as regular sunglasses, depending on the brand.

I found transition lenses to be quite handy for daily use. However, when driving, I noticed they didn’t always darken enough, so that’s something to consider.

Option 4: Fit-Over Sunglasses

Fit-over sunglasses are designed to fit directly over your existing prescription glasses. They are larger than typical sunglasses, allowing you to comfortably wear them over your normal frames. They offer UV protection and often come in polarized versions to reduce glare.

Pros

• Easy to use and affordable.
• Provides full coverage and protection.
• Polarized options can help reduce glare.

Cons

• They can look bulky and may not be the most stylish choice.
• Not ideal for all frame shapes and sizes.
• The double layer of lenses can create reflections or glare.

I gave fit-over sunglasses a shot during a camping trip, and while they worked well, they didn’t win any style points. If you don’t mind a bulkier look, they’re a functional and cost-effective solution.

Option 5: Contact Lenses with Regular Sunglasses

If you’re someone who wears contact lenses, you can easily switch to regular sunglasses for sun protection. The combination of contacts and sunglasses can provide clear vision and eye protection without having to invest in prescription sunglasses or other alternatives.

Pros

• Allows you to wear any style of sunglasses you like.
• Offers flexibility—you can choose polarized, mirrored, or other special lenses.
• Convenient for people who are used to wearing contacts.

Cons

• Not suitable for people who don’t like or can’t wear contacts.
• Some people find contacts uncomfortable for prolonged use.
• Requires proper contact lens care and maintenance.

I’m not a huge fan of contact lenses myself, but if you’re already wearing them, this option is great because it opens up a world of stylish sunglasses.

Comparison Table

Here’s a little table I put together to sum up the options:

Option	Pros	Cons	Best For
Prescription Sunglasses	Clear vision, stylish, full UV protection	Expensive, requires switching between glasses	Style-conscious people willing to invest
Clip-On Sunglasses	Convenient, affordable, fits over prescription	May not fit well, quality varies	Practical people who prefer simple solutions
Transition Lenses	Convenient, automatic darkening	Slow transition, doesn’t darken well in cars	Everyday use, people who dislike carrying extras
Fit-Over Sunglasses	Affordable, full coverage	Bulky look, double-layer reflections	Outdoor activities or casual use
Contact Lenses with Sunglasses	Flexible, stylish, variety of sunglass options	Requires contact lens use and maintenance	People comfortable with contacts

Additional Considerations When Choosing Sunglasses

There are a few more things to think about when choosing the right option for wearing sunglasses with prescription glasses.

UV Protection

No matter what type of sunglasses or lenses you go with, make sure they offer 100% UV protection. This is crucial for keeping your eyes safe from harmful UV rays.

Polarization

If you spend a lot of time driving, boating, or doing outdoor activities, polarized lenses can help reduce glare and improve visibility.

Frame Style and Fit

Choose frames that are comfortable and suitable for your daily activities. If you’re going for clip-ons or fit-over sunglasses, make sure they fit your prescription glasses well.

Which Option Is the Best for You?

When it comes down to it, the best option depends on your lifestyle and preferences. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time outdoors and doesn’t mind carrying two pairs of glasses, prescription sunglasses are a great choice. If you’re always on the go and want a hassle-free option, transition lenses might be the perfect fit. For a budget-friendly solution, clip-ons or fit-over sunglasses can do the job.

If I were to give you a recommendation, I’d say try to figure out your priorities. Is it style, convenience, or budget that matters most to you? Once you’ve sorted that out, choosing the right sunglasses becomes a whole lot easier.

How I Made My Choice

For me, the decision came down to convenience. I tried transition lenses, and I’ve stuck with them ever since. I like that I don’t have to carry around a separate pair of sunglasses or worry about misplacing them. But that’s just me. What worked for me may not be what works for you, and that’s completely okay. The important thing is that you find a solution that lets you see clearly while protecting your eyes.

Final Thoughts

Finding a way to wear sunglasses when you have prescription glasses is totally possible, and there are a lot of solutions out there. It’s just about finding the right one that fits your lifestyle. So, weigh the pros and cons of each option, think about how often you’ll use them, and make a choice that fits your needs. The main thing is, don’t let your prescription glasses stop you from enjoying the sunshine!

Hopefully, this has helped you get a better idea of how people with prescription glasses can wear sunglasses. If you’ve got any more questions, feel free to ask. I’d be more than happy to chat about it because I’ve definitely been there myself. Good luck finding your perfect pair!