If you have a high astigmatism prescription and are shopping for wrap-around sunglasses, you may have encountered some challenges. While wrap-around frames are excellent for outdoor and safety purposes, providing full coverage and better peripheral protection, they can be more complex to make with higher astigmatism corrections. Here’s why wrap-around frames can be tricky for high astigmatism, and some key factors to consider for the best visual results.
Astigmatism is corrected using a component of your prescription called the “cylinder,” which helps address irregularities in the shape of your cornea. Wrap-around frames, with their curved design, can introduce distortions that are more noticeable in lenses with high cylinder values. The more extreme the curvature of the frame, the harder it is to keep your vision distortion-free, especially with higher astigmatism corrections.
At RX-Safety, we can make wrap-around sunglasses and safety glasses for high astigmatism, but not all frames will deliver optimal results. Over the years, we’ve found that the success of high astigmatism corrections in wrap-around frames depends on the frame style and the strength of the astigmatism correction:
In medium-wrap styles, such as our RX-1205, keeping the cylinder (astigmatism correction) within +/- 2.50 works well. With this level of correction, you’re likely to have clear, comfortable vision and minimal distortion, all while enjoying the wrap-around style.
For higher wrap styles, like the Oakley Flak 2.0 XL, we recommend keeping the cylinder to +/- 1.50 or below. High wrap frames can create more pronounced distortions if the astigmatism correction is too high, making them less suitable for strong astigmatism prescriptions. Staying under this threshold helps ensure that your vision remains sharp and clear.
If your astigmatism is beyond +/- 2.50 and you’re set on wrap-around sunglasses or safety glasses, we’d encourage you to try a frame with a lighter wrap. This design may provide more flexibility with higher prescriptions while still giving you broader side coverage. Alternatively, consider a flatter frame style if your prescription falls significantly outside the recommended range. Flatter frames typically handle higher cylinder corrections better, offering a wider field of distortion-free vision.
When selecting wrap-around sunglasses for high astigmatism:
Stay Within Recommended Cylinder Ranges:
For medium wraps, keep the cylinder below +/- 2.50. For high wraps, try to keep it under +/- 1.50.
Consider Frame Width
and Fit:
Properly fitted frames can enhance comfort and reduce distortion.
Work with an
Experienced Provider:
High astigmatism requires precise lens crafting, especially with curved lenses. RX-Safety specializes in prescription wrap-around eyewear, ensuring that lenses are carefully made to balance both vision correction and frame curvature.
Wrap-around frames can be stylish and protective, but knowing the limitations for high astigmatism is essential. For any questions about your prescription and frame options, reach out to RX-Safety—we’re here to help you find the best fit for both style and vision needs.
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