High Index Lenses

What Can High-Index Eyeglasses Be Used For?

The many benefits of high-index lenses are leading more and more individuals to invest in glasses that boast these high-quality parts. After all, who wouldn’t want lighter, thinner, and clearer eye-wear? We know we much prefer the lighter weight of high-index lenses over traditional lenses, and if you have a strong glasses prescription, we are nearly certain you will too.

That said, high-index lenses are a tool, and just like all tools, they must be used properly if you expect them to live a long life. Considering the fact that these lenses are a rather large investment, you will definitely want them to last quite some time. Therefore, it is important to fully understand what this type of eye-wear should and should not be used for. Doing your research beforehand could easily save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars—and plenty of headaches—down the line, making this quick read well worthwhile in our opinion.

So what are the best and worst ways to use these lightweight glasses? Read on to learn more.

— Ideal Uses —

High-index lenses are ideal for correcting the vision of those with a strong eyeglass prescription. They create a much lighter set of eye-wear that is more comfortable to use on a daily basis. Here are some of the things people do while wearing their glasses:

School: Children of all ages need to be comfortable in their own skin. Other kids can be cruel, and unfortunately, children with glasses tend to be the butt of many jokes. Moreover, the thicker your lenses, the more likely you are to be teased, meaning that those with strong prescriptions are highly likely to experience bullying while at school. High-index lenses help solve this problem by providing kids with a thinner lens option that allows them to read and participate in class, stay comfortable throughout the day, and walk into school with confidence.

Work: Because work is an everyday occurrence, it is highly important that you can be comfortable while carrying out your daily tasks. Unfortunately, traditional glasses are often so heavy that they put excessive weight on your ears and the bridge of your nose. Many people solve this problem by using contacts, but that is not an ideal solution for everyone. High-index lenses solve these problems by giving consumers the option of having lightweight glasses that don’t add pressure anywhere on the face.

Driving: As long as you make sure to add an anti-reflective coating to them, high-index lenses offer the perfect eye-wear solution for driving. Because these lenses are lighter weight, they are much less likely to cause your glasses to slip while driving, something that is extremely helpful in stressful situations on the road. Ultraviolet protective coatings are also available and a perfect option if you find yourself in need of sunglasses on a regular basis.

Reading: Progressive high-index lenses are also an option and can be really great for those needing different prescriptions for different tasks. These are especially nice for those who like to read but 1) can’t do so comfortably with regular lenses, and 2) don’t like bifocals. Progressive lenses offer several distance focus options in one set of glasses with smooth transitions from one to the next. Of course, this makes these lenses ideal for reading, and eliminates the need to change glasses when you pick up a book.

Formal Events: Unfortunately, big bulky glasses really change the way your face looks. For those who can’t wear contacts, this can be incredibly frustrating, especially when getting ready to attend formal events such as prom, weddings, and other big parties. High-index lenses offer those with strong prescriptions an option that covers less of their face, eliminates the “bug-eyed” look, and helps others see past the glasses and really look at the wearer.

Seniors: The progressive lens and ultraviolet protective coating options offered by high-index lenses make it possible for a person to have only one pair of glasses that they use for everything. This makes high-index eyeglasses a great option for seniors. While the price might seem a bit high for a person on a fixed retirement budget, the fact that the glasses will cover all eye-wear needs for years to come makes it easy to justify the cost.

— Improper Usage —

Of course, high-index lenses aren’t the answer to every use-case, and such a purchase should be carefully considered in order to ensure the eyewear will suit you and your particular needs. Here are a few things that high-index lenses should not be used for:

Weak Prescriptions: Generally speaking, high-index lenses are best for those with strong prescriptions. After all, lower, weaker prescriptions simply don’t produce the heavy, thick lenses that strong prescriptions do. Because the reason for investing in high-index lenses is almost always to provide the wearer with thinner, lighter-weight eye-wear, it would be silly to spend the extra money on high-index lenses for someone with a lower prescription that is probably not very heavy to begin with.

Swimming: Obviously, eyeglasses really aren’t made to be worn while swimming. However, this is especially true of those glasses made with high-index lenses. You see, high-index lenses may be thinner and lighter, but they are also much more brittle, meaning losing them in the bottom of the pool or being hit in the face with beach ball or flailing arm could easily break them. Additionally, these lenses are much more likely to become scratched. Therefore, a concrete pool bottom, sand from the ocean, or even dirt from the lake could cause terrible scratches and render your glasses unusable.

Taking your glasses off and swimming without eyewear (or opting for prescription swimming goggles) are your two best options when it comes time to swim.

Sports: Because of the increased likelihood of breakage, high-index lenses also should not be worn while playing sports of any kind. Contact sports are especially off-limits, but any kind of sport that could potentially cause the glasses to fall off the face—or be hit by a ball and break—should be considered a no-no.

If you or your child can’t wear contacts while playing sports, we recommend keeping a spare pair of traditional glasses—as well as a snug strap—on hand for game time. This will keep your high-index glasses intact for use during school, work, and other similarly tame activities.

Intense Manual Labor: Those who work in construction zones, mechanic shops, factories, and other intense workplaces may want to steer clear of high-index lenses. Because these lenses are fragile and sensitive to heat, these types of workplaces can easily damage the lenses. Of course, the problem can often be fixed by adding a pair of safety goggles over the glasses, but those who don’t wish to don safety eye-wear at all times should stick to the tougher, more traditional lens option.

By using your high-index lenses for their intended purpose, you can rest assured they will serve you well for years to come. If these lenses seem like they would be a good fit for you, go ahead and order a pair! Be sure to request the coatings you require and order a case to keep them safe. We are certain you will love how good it feels to see clearly without all the bulk.