Single Vision vs. Progressive Lenses: Which Do I Need?Updated an hour ago
Your prescription answers this question for you. Here is how to read the answer, and what each lens type actually does.
What Is a Single Vision Lens?
A single vision lens carries one prescription across the entire lens. Every part of the lens corrects your vision the same way.
Most single vision sunglasses are made for distance, which is what you want for driving, being on the water, hiking, or general daytime wear.
What Is a Progressive Lens?
A progressive lens carries more than one power in a single lens. The top is set for distance, the power increases gradually as you look down, and the bottom carries your reading correction. The change is continuous, with no visible line.
Progressives are for people who need help seeing both far away and up close.
Which One Do I Need?
Look for an ADD value on your prescription.
No ADD value means single vision.
An ADD value, such as +2.00, means you have been prescribed progressives.
If you are unsure, our How to Read Your Prescription article shows exactly where the ADD column appears on the page.
Do You Make Lined Bifocals?
No. We make single vision and progressive lenses only. We do not offer lined bifocals or trifocals in any material or frame.
If your current glasses are lined bifocals, a progressive lens will cover the same distance and reading needs. The transition between them is gradual rather than sudden, which most people find takes a short adjustment period.
What Else Do Progressives Need?
Two extra things:
A segment height. We need to know where your reading zone should sit in your particular frame. See The Measurements We Need: PD and Segment Height.
Enough lens height. The reading zone sits toward the bottom of the lens, so a very short lens shape may not leave room for a usable corridor. If you are ordering progressives in a small or shallow frame, check with our Rx Eyewear Experts first.
Will Progressives Feel Different at First?
Most people need a short period to adjust to a new progressive lens. Because the power changes gradually from top to bottom, the clearest view at any distance is found by moving your head slightly rather than just your eyes. Sunglasses can take a little longer to feel natural than everyday glasses, since you may not be wearing them all day.
If your lenses still do not feel right after a couple of weeks of regular wear, contact our Rx Eyewear Experts. Our one-time remake is available within 60 days of delivery when we confirm there was an issue with the lenses.