Spectacle LensesThere is vast array of spectacle lenses available in a multitude of formats which can be both overwhelming and confusing!
Here is our simple guide to lenses designed to help you make the right choice for YOU |
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Single Vision Lenses
Single vision lenses are just that - single vision.
They either take the form of a general purpose pair or, as we get older, we may need a pair more specifically for close range tasks such as reading (classed as 'near vision') or for working on a computer (known as 'intermediate vision).
They either take the form of a general purpose pair or, as we get older, we may need a pair more specifically for close range tasks such as reading (classed as 'near vision') or for working on a computer (known as 'intermediate vision).
Bifocal Lenses
As we get older our close range focus can need a little help. In this instance, some people choose to move into a bifocal lens which predominantly provides distance vision with a small segment in the bottom third of the lens designed specifically for reading.
Bifocals are a good basic lens but can be quite limiting in their use as they lack an intermediate section which aids arms-length distance working, for example a computer, supermarket shopping, the dashboard of the car and of course the dreaded ironing!
Varifocal Lenses
Varifocals are a very popular and convenient way to accommodate our changing vision as we get older.
In simple terms, they incorporate all three vision ranges, effectively covering distance, intermediate and close focus in one set of spectacles.
Lens Coatings
M.A.R. is the short name for multi anti reflection.
An anti reflection coating will minimise the light reflected on both the front and back surface of the spectacle lenses. This results in a more comfortable lens to look through and a sharper, cleaner image.
Many people feel more confident driving at night with a coated lens as they also minimise the effects of glare from oncoming headlights.
An anti reflection coating will minimise the light reflected on both the front and back surface of the spectacle lenses. This results in a more comfortable lens to look through and a sharper, cleaner image.
Many people feel more confident driving at night with a coated lens as they also minimise the effects of glare from oncoming headlights.
Transition Lenses
These lenses change from light to dark depending upon U.V. rays. Some people still refer to them as 'reactive' which were glass lenses whereas transition lenses are plastic.
People choosing transition lenses generally do so as a 'one pair does all' solution as they often find that the light to dark transition effect negates the need for a separate pair of sunglasses.
Take heed though - the transition effectiveness is reduced when driving as car windscreens provide a natural U.V. inhibitor. They will change behind the wheel, but not as effectively. There are however new transition lenses available which are a little more car friendly.
Take heed though - the transition effectiveness is reduced when driving as car windscreens provide a natural U.V. inhibitor. They will change behind the wheel, but not as effectively. There are however new transition lenses available which are a little more car friendly.
Drivers Lenses
Calling all taxi drivers and long-distance lorry drivers - this is the lens for you!
Drivers lenses have been designed specifically for or anyone who spend long spells behind the wheel. These lenses work on the same principle as transitions, adapting to high/low light levels by adjusting to the most effective colour for each particular weather condition.
Unlike a transition lens though they are never truly clear. However, drivers lenses are a great custom option that 'do exactly what it says on the tin'!
Drivers lenses have been designed specifically for or anyone who spend long spells behind the wheel. These lenses work on the same principle as transitions, adapting to high/low light levels by adjusting to the most effective colour for each particular weather condition.
Unlike a transition lens though they are never truly clear. However, drivers lenses are a great custom option that 'do exactly what it says on the tin'!
Pre-varifocal Lenses
If you re just starting to encounter problems with your near vision but are not ready to take the leap to varifocals, this lens could be for you.
Effectively this is a single vision distance lens with a little extra magnification for near vision which can be helpful until you are ready for the next step - generally varifocals.
Effectively this is a single vision distance lens with a little extra magnification for near vision which can be helpful until you are ready for the next step - generally varifocals.
Interview or Office Lenses
This lens gives the perfect focus for both computer (intermediate) or near (reading) vision. It does not assist distance vision.
It is a more simply designed lens than the varifocal and this is reflected in the lower price.
It is a more simply designed lens than the varifocal and this is reflected in the lower price.
Thinner Lenses
All lens types are available in a thinner format, ranging from thin to thinnER, to thinEST.
Your prescription determines which, if any, thin format is suitable for you and our dispenser will guide you though the options.
Your prescription determines which, if any, thin format is suitable for you and our dispenser will guide you though the options.