The Best Frames for Varifocal Lenses
So, you’ve only been using distance glasses and now up-close objects are becoming less clear than they used to be?
Or, maybe you always had reading glasses but now you’re struggling to see road signs while driving?
Whatever the reason, you’re in need of glasses for both reading and distance and you’re probably thinking ‘two pairs of glasses sounds like a hassle.’
First, imagine a drumroll please, because we have the solution… varifocal lenses!
Once you’ve visited your eye doctor, if they think it’s suitable, they will prescribe you varifocal lenses. Then, it’s time for the fun part; choosing the best frame style!
What type of frame is best for varifocal lenses?
Firstly, what are they? Varifocal lenses are a multifocal lens with three different prescriptions – near, intermediate, and distance.
As there are three prescriptions within one lens, each prescription is located in a different section of the lens.
The precision of this lens design means that some frame shapes are better suited for the job than others to give you clear and comfortable vision.
The ideal lens height is between 28 – 34mm.
So, if the frame style is too wide, too narrow, or an irregular shape, you will be uncomfortable trying to look through the correct part of the lens.
Ignoring the technicalities, frame style can also be influenced by your face shape. At the end of the day, it’s whatever you feel comfortable in.
However, certain styles can look especially flattering on certain shapes so you may want to consider this when choosing the frames for your varifocals.
So without further adieu, we’ve compiled some of the best glasses frames for varifocal lenses to make your life that much easier.
Round glasses
First on the list are round glasses, which are one of the most ideal shapes for varifocal lenses.
Varifocal lenses work great when your glasses are really close to your eyes and thankfully, round glasses typically sit rather snug on the bridge of your nose.
Round glasses exude eccentric and quirky vibes and have a rather studious charm.
Disclaimer: they may not actually make you any smarter but you’ll certainly look it.
-
-20%
SmartBuy Collection
Croydon with Clip-on U-220 M07
£95 £119
Free lenses
2 colors
6 left in stock
Square glasses
Next on the list of best frames for varifocal lenses: square. Like its rounder counterpart, this style has a deeper lens area.
This is great because all three prescriptions fit with ease making it very comfortable for you to seamlessly transition between the three distances.
Square glasses mean business. You’ll give off a very organised and practical vibe.
Oval glasses
For the same reasons as round, oval glasses are another great option for varifocal lenses.
The deeper lens area and where they sit on your face work great to accommodate the three prescriptions.
This style is a bit more subtle so if you’re more lowkey then these frames are for you.
Don’t mistake subtle for boring though. People will see you and think “creative and mature.”
Varifocal lenses: styles to avoid
Just as there are some great frame shapes for varifocal lenses, there are some styles that are not so ideal.
We want you to get the most out of your varifocal glasses, so here are some styles that are best to avoid.
- Cat-eye
- Oversized
- Narrow
At any other time, of course, you can never go wrong with a timeless cat-eye or noughties oversized look.
But in terms of what’s best for your varifocal lenses, these shapes can affect how you see through the three prescriptions.
Cat-eyes and narrow styles won’t provide enough lens space at the bottom which will affect the viewing area for your near vision.
Should you fit some cat-eye frames with varifocal lenses, you might convey Old Hollywood style, but you won’t be able to read your novel clearly.
As for oversized, having too much lens space affects where the three distances are fitted, which in turn affects where you need to look.
You may find it uncomfortable trying to look through the correct part of the lens.
Best frames for varifocal lenses
With that, if you don’t like rounder frames, go for the square, and vice versa.
We have so many styles to choose from that range from affordable to designer, so rest assured you will find something to suit your personality and budget.
Style is important, however, getting the most out of your varifocal lenses and being comfortable when you look through the lenses is key.
So keep in mind those styles that are best to avoid.
When you’re ready to buy your pair of varifocal glasses, you’ll have considered the best glasses shapes, your face shape, and naturally, your personal style.
The next step is using our Virtual Try-On tool to see how they’ll fit from the comfort of your home.
So sit back, relax, virtually try some glasses on and then provide us with your prescription and we’ll take care of the rest.