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Home » Eyeglasses & Contacts » Choosing the Right Lens Material for your Glasses

Choosing the Right Lens Material for your Glasses

Choosing between Polycarbonate and Trivex

There are several differences between the two, so before making your decision, carefully consider:

Scratch-Resistant Protection

Both types of lenses provide an impact-resistant option that is great for active people. Polycarbonate and Trivex are soft plastics, which make it possible for them to absorb impact without fracturing. Traditional glasses are somewhat brittle and if hit with a ball or debris during an activity, they are more likely to crack or shatter completely. Both types of lenses are also covered with a scratch-resistant coating to protect the surface from scratches. Basically, wearers get the best of both worlds. Their glasses have some flexibility, but the material that makes them less breakable is protected by a coating that makes them hard and durable.

Weight and Thickness of the Lenses-Polycarbonate lenses are about 10% thinner than Trivex lenses. However, Trivex is about 10% lighter than polycarbonate.

Clarity-Trivex lenses offer better clarity for both central and peripheral vision. This is the main reason to choose this lens material especially if you have Astigmatism.

UV Protection-Both polycarbonate and Trivex lenses offer 100% sun protection from UV rays. Neither needs additional UV protection coatings to achieve complete protection.

Impact Resistant-Each of the two materials offers comparable impact resistance.

Cost and Availability
Trivex lenses are typically more expensive than polycarbonate.

Why should I get an Anti-reflective coating?

Anti-reflective lenses

Benefits: Reduces glare and reflections; makes lenses appear invisible.

You really need this if: You’re bothered by glare when driving at night; you wear glasses all day while working at a computer; you do a lot of public speaking in bright lights and don’t want to look like an alien.

What is the benefit of Polarized sunglasses?

A polarized lens removes the effects of glare by blocking reflections. This improves eye comfort and allows you to take in the view without squinting. Roadways and water sources are major culprits of glare, and can cause danger to drivers who may already struggle with vision issues. Glare can create a very uncomfortable eye health issue for people with sensitive eyes, and even cause a migraine in patients who are prone to developing them.