Prescription sunglasses: everything you need to know

If you wear glasses, you know how uncomfortable summer can be: the sun bothers you, but you have to choose between seeing clearly and protecting your eyes. Many people with myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism turn to non-prescription sunglasses and end up squinting or with a headache after ten minutes.

The good news is that there is a perfect solution: prescription sunglasses. In this article we explain what they are, what types there are and how to choose the ones that best suit your lifestyle.

What are prescription sunglasses?

They are sunglasses whose lenses include your exact vision correction — the same as in your everyday glasses — plus an approved sun filter. This means you will see clearly while your eyes are protected from ultraviolet (UV) radiation and glare.

📌 Important: For a sun lens to be effective, it must have a UV400 filter, which blocks 100% of UVA and UVB rays. This applies whether or not the lens has a prescription. At Òptica Florit we always include UV400 protection in all our sun lenses.

Types of lenses for prescription sunglasses

Not all prescription sun lenses are the same. These are the most common options and the type of wearer each one suits best:

Solid tinted lenses

The tint covers the whole lens evenly. These are the classic option, the most affordable and perfect for general use.

Gradient lenses

Darker at the top and lighter at the bottom. Ideal for driving and reading outdoors.

Polarised lenses

They remove annoying reflections from surfaces such as water, tarmac or snow. Essential if you play sport or drive.

Photochromic lenses

They darken automatically in sunlight and clear indoors. The most convenient option if you are constantly going in and out.

Mirror lenses

With a reflective coating on the outer surface. They reduce light and add style. Very popular at the beach and in the mountains.

Progressive sun lenses

For people with presbyopia. They let you see at distance, intermediate and near without changing glasses.

5 advantages of prescription sunglasses

👁️
You see clearly at all timesNo need to squint or wear sunglasses over your prescription glasses. One frame, perfect vision.
☀️
Real, certified UV protectionA prescription sun lens has exactly the same UV400 filter as any quality pair of sunglasses. Your eyes are protected from radiation that can cause cataracts and retinal damage.
🚗
Safer drivingWith your prescription sunglasses you drive without glare and without needing glasses over glasses, which is more comfortable and safer.
🏖️
Perfect for holidays and sportBeach, mountains, tennis, hiking… you no longer have to give up clear vision when the sun is strong.
💆
Goodbye to headachesStraining your eyes with non-prescription lenses in bright light causes eye strain and headaches. Sunglasses with your prescription remove that effort.

Prescription sunglasses vs. clip-ons vs. contact lenses + sunglasses?

These are the three most common alternatives for people with a prescription who want to protect themselves from the sun. Here is an honest comparison:

Option	Comfort	Visual quality	UV protection	Cost
Prescription sunglasses	✔ Maximum	✔ Optimal	✔ UV400	Moderate-high investment
Clip-on / magnetic	~ Acceptable	~ Fair	✔ If certified	Low
Contact lenses + non-prescription sunglasses	~ Depends on the wearer	✔ Good	✔ If the filter is UV400	Medium
Prescription glasses over sunglasses	✘ Uncomfortable	✘ Reduced	~ Partial	Low (but ineffective)

The conclusion is clear: prescription sunglasses are the most comfortable option with the best visual result. Clip-ons are an affordable alternative if you already have a frame.

Which lens colour is right for you?

Lens colour is not just about looks — it affects how you perceive colours and depth:

🟤

Brown / amber

Boosts contrast. Ideal for driving, golf and activities among greenery.

🩶

Grey

Natural colours without distortion. The most versatile option for everyday use.

🟢

Green

Good contrast and natural colours. Very popular for outdoor sports.

🟡

Yellow / orange

Improves vision in low light. Ideal for cycling or skiing in fog.

⚠️ Note: A dark colour does not guarantee greater UV protection. A black lens without a UV filter can be more harmful than a light lens with UV400, because it dilates the pupil and lets in more radiation. Always make sure your lenses have a UV400 filter.

How to choose your prescription sunglasses: step by step

1

Check your current prescription

If you have not had a recent eye test, take the opportunity to have a full one. An out-of-date prescription in your sunglasses can cause eye strain without you realising.
2

Think about the main use

Are they for driving? For sport? For the beach? Each use has a more suitable lens type: polarised for driving and water, photochromic if you go in and out of buildings, solid tinted for general use.
3

Choose the right frame for your prescription

Very small or highly curved frames can make it difficult to manufacture lenses with a high prescription. At Òptica Florit we advise you so that you choose a frame that suits both your correction and your style.
4

Check for a UV400 filter

Always insist that the lenses are UV400 certified. This is not an extra: it is the minimum protection that responsible sunglasses should have.
5

Consider additional coatings

Anti-reflective coating on the inner surface, hard coating, hydrophobic coating (repels water and dust)… these finishes greatly improve the everyday experience, especially at the beach or in the mountains.

Brands available at Òptica Florit

We work with top-tier lens manufacturers to guarantee the best optical quality in your prescription sunglasses:

Zeiss Essilor Rodenstock Indo Hoya Shamir

And for frames, we work with leading international and local brands — from sports glasses to fashion designs — so you can find the perfect combination of style and functionality.

Frequently asked questions

Can any prescription be put into sunglasses?

Generally yes, although with very high prescriptions (from +/-4 or +/-5 dioptres) it is advisable to choose frames with smaller lenses so that the lens thickness is acceptable. At Òptica Florit we always let you know if there are any limitations and suggest alternatives.

Are they more expensive than ordinary sunglasses?

Yes, because they include manufacturing the lens with your exact correction. But bear in mind that they replace two products: your prescription glasses and your sunglasses. Overall, they are usually a very worthwhile investment.

Can I order progressive lenses in a sun version?

Absolutely. Progressive sun lenses are ideal for people with presbyopia who want to see at distance, near and intermediate without changing glasses.

Do photochromic lenses work inside the car?

Generally not, or only very slightly. The windscreen filters out most of the UV light that activates the photochromic process. If your main use is driving, we recommend a fixed tinted lens (brown or grey) with a filter for drivers.

How long does it take for the order to be ready?

It depends on the type of lens and the manufacturer. In most cases, between 5 and 10 working days. If you need the glasses by a specific date (holidays, a trip), let us know in advance so we can prioritise your order.