The Impact of Resistance: Why It Matters in Eyewear Selection
- BY Dr. Steven Liem
- IN Lenses
Choosing the right eyewear is about more than just style and vision correction; it’s also about durability and longevity. Resistance to daily wear and tear plays a pivotal role in selecting glasses that not only look good but also stand the test of time. Let’s dive into why resistance matters and how it influences the glasses you choose.
Durability and Your Lifestyle
When it comes to eyewear, the materials used can greatly affect its ability to resist damage from impacts, scratches, and everyday mishaps. Here’s what to consider:
- Impact Resistance: Accidents happen, and glasses can easily fall victim to drops and knocks. Materials like polycarbonate and Trivex are known for their superior impact resistance, making them ideal for active lifestyles and children’s eyewear.
- Scratch Resistance: Over time, minor scratches can affect lens clarity. Opting for lenses with a scratch-resistant coating can keep your vision clear and extend the life of your glasses.
- Frame Quality: The frame material is just as important as the lenses. Metals like titanium are both lightweight and strong, while acetate frames offer flexibility and resilience.
Protection and Lens Coatings
Additional lens coatings can enhance the protective qualities of your eyewear, contributing to its overall resistance:
- UV Protection: A coating that blocks harmful UV rays is essential for safeguarding your eyes and ensuring the longevity of the lenses.
- Blue Light Filtering: With increased screen time, lenses that filter blue light can help in reducing digital eye strain and may contribute to better sleep patterns. Blue light filtering lenses are an excellent option for those who spend a lot of time in front of computers.
- Anti-Reflective Coatings: These reduce glare and reflections, enhancing visual clarity and reducing eye strain in various lighting conditions.
By choosing lenses with these protective coatings, you not only enhance the resistance of your eyewear, but you also invest in the health and comfort of your eyes.
Frame Fit and Comfort
Finding the perfect fit is essential for the longevity of your eyewear. Ill-fitting glasses are more prone to slipping off, which can lead to increased risk of damage. Here are a few tips for ensuring a proper fit:
- Measure your pupillary distance accurately to ensure your lenses align correctly with your eyes, providing optimal vision and comfort.
- Consider different frame materials based on your skin’s sensitivity. Some materials, like hypoallergenic titanium, are better suited for sensitive skin.
- Use the virtual try-on feature to get a feel for how the frames fit your face shape and size before purchasing.
Remember, comfortable glasses are less likely to be handled roughly or adjusted frequently, which contributes to their overall resistance to wear.
Making an informed selection in eyewear goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about recognizing the importance of impact resistance, understanding the benefits of lens coatings for protection, and ensuring a proper frame fit for both comfort and durability. By considering these elements, you’re not just choosing glasses; you’re investing in a pair that will accompany you through life’s moments with resilience and clarity.
About the Author: Dr. Steven Liem, OD, FAAO
Dr. Steven Liem, O.D., F.A.A.O. is an optometrist based in Pasadena, California. After obtaining his doctorate from UC Berkeley’s School of Optometry, he completed his residency in Pediatrics, Vision Therapy & Rehabilitation and became a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry. When he isn’t busy streaming or making Youtube videos about video games, Dr. Liem aims to broaden accessibility to vision health through his involvement in optometric industry and tech.