Which lens thickness is right for you? It really depends on you and your prescription. Typically, the stronger your prescription is, the thicker your lenses will be. “Thick” can also be subjective. Lenses can be very thin compared to “Coke Bottle” glasses, but can also be considered thick compared to hiding lenses within a frame. We carry 5 types of lens indices. With the same prescription and frame, the higher the index is, the thinner the lens is. The following lens index guide will help you choose the right lens thickness. The higher the refractive index, the thinner the lens, the more the light transmittance.
1.50 Low Index – Standard Lens
These standard or “regular” lenses, made from a plastic named CR39, are recommended for relatively low prescriptions. In addition, they are also relatively thick lenses.
Note: we don’t carry 1.5 index lens currently because of its limitations on frame and prescription choices.
1.59 Mid-Index – Polycarbonate
These lenses are thinner and lighter than 1.5 index lenses and can handle stronger prescriptions. They are on average 20% thinner than 1.5 index lenses. They are recommended for SPH corrections from +5.00 to -5.00, and CYL corrections from +4.00 to -4.00. 100% UV protection. Polycarbonate lenses are lightweight, impact-resistant, and are less likely to fracture than regular plastic lenses. They are also great for rimless and semi-rimless frames.
1.61 High Index – Thin
Made of MR-8, these hard resin lenses are our most tough and durable option. Up to 35% thinner and 40% lighter than the standard lenses.We recommend these 1.6-index lenses for SPH corrections from +4.00 to -4.00, and CYL corrections from +3.00 to -3.00. 100% UV protection.
1.67 High Index – Super Thin
These lightweight and thin lenses are ideal for stronger prescription, and are Up to 45% thinner and 45% lighter than the standard lenses. They work perfectly in rimless and semi rimless frames. We recommend them for SPH corrections from +8.00 to -8.00, and CYL corrections from +4.00 to -4.00. 100% UV protection. Based on the feature, quality and price, it is strongly recommended to use.
1.74 High Index – Ultra Thin
These are the thinnest and lightest plastic lenses we carry, and can be up to 60% thinner than the standard lenses. They are definitely the 1st choice for very strong prescriptions, and they work best for all our frames. As refractive lenses, they’re recommended for prescriptions with SPH corrections from +10.00 to -14.00 or above, and CYL corrections from +6.00 to -6.00. 100% UV protection
