Why do lenses vary in price when they all look the same? Lenses are highly technical products that in many cases will require a greater investment than your frames. As the many built-in benefits are not visible at a glance, it can be hard to compare like for like.

We break down some of the key features and benefits that differentiate one lens from the next so that you are equipped to make an informed decision and choose the best for your eyes.

Thinner and lighter lenses

Lens index determines the thickness and weight of your lenses. 1.50 index (or CR39) is the base option and the one advertised in most package deals. As you increase the index (eg. 1.56, 1.60 and 1.67) lenses become thinner, lighter and more aesthetically pleasing. Higher indexes are especially useful for those with stronger prescriptions.

Lenses for vision correction

The other big factor differentiating between lenses is the type of vision correction they are designed for:

Single vision lenses

These are the most commonly prescribed lens type and are used to correct short-sightedness and long-sightedness. They have the same focal power over the whole lens, meaning they will allow you to see either up close or at a distance, but not both.

Multifocal lenses

Multifocal lenses allow multiple distance correction with no visible lines, making them the most convenient solution for many viewing distances. While this lens type can be more costly due to their complexity, the latest sophisticated designs will deliver more seamless and natural vision, less distortion, and provide greater flexibility in frame choice over standard options. There are three types of multifocal lenses:

• Progressive lenses, made with two or three focal powers that gradually change throughout the lens so that you can comfortably see up close, at arms length and at a distance.
• Extended readers are lenses designed to help you read both up-close and at arms lengths so you don’t have to constantly remove your glasses to see things in the intermediate distance.
• Bifocal lenses (largely replaced by progressive lenses) also have two focal powers except there is no gradual transition, but rather two separate focal powers splitting the lens into two distinct parts.

Don’t compromise on your vision

Our optometrists’ independence gives them the freedom to recommend the highest quality lenses for your eyes. Because while frames will leave you looking and feeling fantastic, it’s the lenses that will ultimately ensure you are seeing the world clearly and at it’s best.