Prescription Sunglass Frames

[tokie]

So I'm trying to decide which kind of frame to get for my prescription sunglasses. I've narrowed it down to either Wayfarers or Aviators. Normally I would always go with aviators for sunglasses, but for prescription sunglasses I am concerned that aviator frames could be too fragile. So I'm currently leaning towards the wayfarers since they seem sturdier.

Has anyone here bought prescription sunglasses before? Have you had any issues with frames like aviators being too fragile? Note that I don't care about the cost since my health insurance pays for it.

 

[Spg1]

I ended up with the Oakley Gascan frames and lenses years ago. I just chose frames from what they had in the office at the time. From what I remember only certain frames support prescription lenses at that time.

I don't know why aviator frames would be any weaker with prescription lenses vs tinted lenses.

 

[GoodRevrnd]

I have some fairly curved aviators and they managed to work them with my difficult prescription (concave lenses) using a thinner lens. They still feel sturdy enough. The biggest issue with prescription in aviators is if the lens is too thick (or too thick on the outer edges at least) it looks really bad.

 

[Imp]

I've had prescription sunglasses as in normal glasses frames (old ones) with a tinted lens installed.

My genuine aviators use glass, so I don't see how they could be more fragile with a prescription plastic/glass lens. The arms are definately thin and flimsy if you like to wear your sunglasses ontop of your head.

Frame-wise, Aviators are terrible at letting sun get in the side, and will reflect the sun into your eye at times. I've never had Wayfarers, but they seem like they'll do the same. Aviators and Wayfarers are roughly the same price.

 

[dr150]

if you have bad eyesight the curvature (even with high index plastic) will make it look goofy/nerdy on thin framed aviators. Thicker plastic frames are not only sturdier but hide your RX MUCH better.

BTW, I suggest you also look at Serengeti for RX. They use Zeiss Labs/Lenses(!) for their RX lenses and their prices are quite reasonable for this exceptional optics. The company that is authorized to issue a Serengeti/Zeiss orders is:
http://www.opticsplanet.net/serengeti-prescription-sunglasses-w-single-vision-lenses.html

As an FYI, check out the "Technology" and "Custom RX Program" tab on their website:
http://www.serengeti-eyewear.com/index_en_na.cfm

 

[Analog]

I had Maui Jim's made to my prescription and I love them.