Choosing your first pair of reading glasses or a replacement for your old ones is different from picking out a sweater. There are a lot of factors to consider, including magnification and frame style. With so many styles and options, the process can be overwhelming. But investing in a quality pair is worth it.
Better Vision
Whether far-sighted or near-sighted, reading glasses can offer extra eyes to help you focus on close-up tasks without strain. But, choosing a pair that meets your needs and style can be challenging. Over-the-counter reading glasses can be affordable, but they’re usually designed for a limited number of people and aren’t meant to replace eyeglasses your doctor prescribes. Invest in a quality pair from an online retailer like Zenni Optical, and you’ll enjoy crisp, clear vision throughout the day and be able to take your daily activities in stride. But where to start? Determining your style and face shape is an excellent place to start. Are you a more reserved person with a classic look, or are you an on-trend fashionista who likes to walk on the wild side? Then, you can find a pair of reading glasses that reflect your personality and complement your face shape. Next, you’ll need to determine the magnification that suits your needs. It’s a good idea to visit your eye doctor for a yearly exam to get an accurate prescription.
Durability
If you’re a glasses wearer, you know how often they can get dirty or scratched. A quality pair will resist these damage sources and last longer than a cheaper variant, meaning you’ll have to buy them less frequently, saving on recurring costs and reducing waste. Cheap frames can contain chemicals that irritate the skin, mainly when contacting your face. A good-quality pair is designed with your eyes and face in mind, ensuring the material is hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin. Choosing the right pair of reading glasses can be difficult, as you’ll need to test them at different distances to find what works best for you. You can get an idea of the strength (noted with a number like +1.00 or +2.50) that you need by having a yearly eye exam, or you can try this DIY test: Grab a card from the stationery aisle and hold it at different distances to see which power is most comfortable for you. This way, you can double-check in the store that you’re getting the best value for your money.
Comfort
When you’re wearing glasses, comfort is critical. If you’re wearing an uncomfortable pair, it’s easy to develop headaches and eyestrain over time. Invest in a pair that’s well-made and designed for wear with your everyday routine. While you can buy reading glasses at the dollar store (which are acceptable to use as backup pairs), higher quality frames made from metal or acetate will be more comfortable, withstand daily wear and tear better, and offer a better fit. They’re also likely to have more features, like anti-scratch or anti-reflective lenses and polarized options for extra UV protection. It’s also a good idea to start with a giant pair the first time you shop, allowing you to find a “sweet spot” of focus that works best for your vision.
Style
Reading glasses can help address concerns like presbyopia or trouble seeing up close objects. They do this by enlarging text and making it easier to focus on fine details. Plus, with various styles and a range of magnifications available, there’s sure to be a pair that suits your style. Try a pair with a wide temple width and bridge to get the most comfortable fit and best vision. This can reduce the pressure on your nose while preventing the frames from sliding down your face. Also, consider the size of your face and frame silhouette when choosing a style. Generally, opposites attract, so an angular face might look good in square frames, while round faces might suit rectangles. Considering the cost of a quality pair of reading glasses and their long-term value, it’s worth paying a little more for a durable, stylish pair you can wear with confidence and comfort.
Value
Many cheaper reading glasses are sold in stores, online, and at drugstores. These glasses generally don’t have essential features for your vision and health. Cheap reading glasses use cheaper lens materials not tailored to your needs. They can also damage your eyesight and cause strain if worn for long periods. Blurry vision may be a sign of age-related farsightedness, but it can also be a sign of a more severe condition or disease. If your vision is starting to blur, make an appointment with your eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam. Investing in quality reading glasses will benefit your vision, comfort, and style.
