Do I Need High Index Lenses for Sunglasses?

When you order prescription sunglasses, you’ll likely come across “high index” lens options that promise thinner, lighter lenses. These materials weigh less and aren’t as thick because they bend light more efficiently. 

The question is whether they’re worth the extra cost. For most people with mild to moderate prescriptions, standard materials like polycarbonate work just fine. High index lenses make more sense when you have a stronger prescription or want larger frames without the added bulk.

Do Most People Need High Index Sunglasses?

People who have mild eye problems (with prescriptions under -4.00 or under +3.00) don’t need sunglasses with high index lenses, because their lenses wouldn’t be noticeably thinner or lighter. Standard polycarbonate or Trivex sunglasses work fine and balance impact resistance and clarity. They also cost less than high index lenses.

When High Index Lenses Make Sense

Standard materials are more than adequate for everyday sunglass prescriptions. But for some, the benefit of high index prescription sunglasses justifies the additional cost.

1. Higher Prescriptions: If you have a high prescription, standard lenses are noticeably thick. If you’re wearing them regularly, the added weight can be uncomfortable. People with significant vision problems benefit from high index lenses if they normally wear:

• Plus lenses: Over +3.00, which get noticeably thicker in the center.

• Minus lenses: Over -4.00, which get noticeably thicker at the edges.

 2. Large Frames and Aviator Styles: Standard prescription lenses for large sunglasses have and show more of the thicker edges or centers. This is because prescription grinding methods don’t change for larger lenses, but they must cover a larger area, so thickness is more noticeable.

For example, if your prescription notes a -2.75 sphere with -0.50 cylinder, you’ll have thicker-looking lenses in large aviator frames than you would in a small frame. High index lenses fix this.

3. Cosmetic Appearance: You may find the thinner centers or edges of high index lenses more attractive, especially if you worry about the “Coke bottle” look. Rimless options are among the best frames for high index lenses. They are no longer off the table with lighter, high index lenses.

Lens Options for High Index Sunglasses

We offer several lens options for high index sunglasses, providing you the benefits of lightweight lenses without sacrificing quality or appearance. Options include:

Colors and tints: Standard sunglass lens colors, such as gray, brown, or deep grayish green G-15.

Polarized lenses:  High index polarized prescription sunglasses with 1.67 lenses that reduce glare from water, roads, and other surfaces, and other lens coating options.

Prescription types: Single vision, progressives, and even some lined bifocals, such as FT-28.

Why Anti-Reflective Coating Is Recommended: If you choose high index lenses, you benefit from adding an anti-reflective coating. High index lenses reflect more light than standard lens materials, causing more glare and potentially reducing vision comfort. 

Anti-reflective coatings cut reflections and can improve vision clarity in sunglasses. Whether you wear them while driving or reflexively grab them on any sunny day, give yourself the additional benefit that anti-reflective coating provides.

how to order SUNGLASSES WITH high index LENSes

1. SELECT THE FRAME

RX Safety offers a wide range of Prescription Sunglasses frames that will match perfectly with your high index lenses.

AFTER CHOOSING THE PERFECT FRAME, CLICK IN ‘SELECT LENSES’

2. ADD YOUR PRESCRIPTION INFORMATION

Inside our prescription form, you can select your prescription type. Choose between single vision, digital single vision, lined bifocal, or progressive bifocal. Now it is the time to upload or fill your prescription information.

ADD YOUR PRESCRIPTION INFORMATION

3. SELECT LENS MATERIAL

Then, you will choose your lens material. This is where you select your high index lenses.

AFTER CHOOSING YOUR PRESCRIPTION TYPE, SELECT high index lenses under LENS material

4. SELECT LENS COLOR

Customize your lenses by choosing your lens color.

SELECT YOUR FAVORITE LENS COLOR

Final Considerations

High index lenses increase the cost of your sunglasses over those made with standard materials. You don’t need this added cost if you have a mild vision problem. Traditional polycarbonate or Trivex materials are fine.

If you have a higher prescription or prefer larger frames, the increased cost of high index frames brings significant comfort and appearance benefits. 

If you are replacing your current traditional lenses with high index ones, make sure that your current frame is durable and in good condition. This will reduce the chances of damaging your new, more costly lenses.

Making Your Decision

If you have a low to moderate prescription and smaller frames, standard lenses are fine, and you probably won’t gain much in terms of comfort to justify the added cost of high index lenses. However, if you prefer large frames or have a high prescription, the additional cost of high index frames is worth it for the added comfort and style.. 

Consult with an optical professional for advice on whether you need high index lenses for sunglasses. They can help you find your best balance between prescription strength, frame choice, and comfort.