Prescription Sunglasses: UV Protection, Lens Options & Clarity
On the Surf Coast, sunglasses provide essential protection from UV radiation. Australia has among the highest UV levels in the world, and our eyes are especially vulnerable. Long-term exposure can contribute to cataracts, macular degeneration, growths such as pterygium, and even eyelid cancers.
If you wear prescription glasses, investing in prescription sunglasses is one of the most effective ways to protect your eyes. They combine vision correction with full UV protection, giving you comfort and clarity while safeguarding your eye health long term.
Why prescription sunglasses matter
Standard sunglasses reduce glare, while prescription sunglasses sharpen your vision, keeping your eyes relaxed, and block 100% of UV radiation. The result is comfort and clarity, whether you’re driving along the Great Ocean Road, enjoying the Surf Coast, or relaxing at a barbecue.
Learn more about Prescription Sunglasses in Torquay.
Lens Options
Prescription sunglasses aren’t one size fits all. Depending on your needs, lenses can be tailored to:
Single vision lenses – crisp focus for distance or near tasks.
Multifocal lenses – seamless vision from distance to near tasks, whether reading to driving, without changing glasses.
Photochromatic lenses – clear indoors, tinted outdoors for convenience all day.
Polarised lenses – cut harsh glare by filtering out horizontal or reflected light such as from the sand, water, and roads (especially beneficial on the Surf Coast).
Polarised Lenses
Polarised lenses are the gold standard for reducing glare. Glare occurs when sunlight reflects off flat surfaces, and that reflected light becomes horizontally aligned, making it feel harsh and blinding.
Polarised lenses contain a vertical filter that blocks this horizontal reflected light, removing glare at its source. This is fundamentally different from a standard tint, which only darkens the scene.
Benefits
Significant glare reduction on water, roads and reflective surfaces
Enhanced colour contrast, even in shaded areas
Less squinting and visual fatigue, especially for light-sensitive eyes
Safer, more comfortable driving
Ideal for water sports, fishing and snow activities
Available in a range of tints and fully compatible with prescription lenses
Points to Consider
Higher initial investment than non-polarised lenses.
LCD displays (car dashboards, boat instruments, aircraft panels) may appear dimmer.
Skiers and snowboarders may find it harder to distinguish subtle shades of white.
Some windscreens or helmet visors can reveal faint grid patterns — it’s always best to test first.
Safety & Driving
Polarised sunglasses are completely safe for your eyes and can make driving more comfortable by cutting dashboard and road glare. Just keep in mind that certain displays may be harder to see.
What to Look for When Buying Polarised Sunglasses
When choosing polarised sunglasses, check for:
Full UV protection – lenses should block harmful rays up to 400 nm for complete eye and skin safety.
Everyday defence – consider clear or UV-protective lenses for cloudy days or low light environments.
Anti-reflective back coating – prevents light bouncing from behind the lens.
Tint tailored to lifestyle – different sports and activities benefit from specific colour filters.
Customisation – prescription polarised lenses are more costly, but they’re crafted to your exact prescription and visual needs, ensuring comfort and lasting protection.
Coatings & finishes
Prescription sunglass lenses can be enhanced with:
Scratch resistance for durability.
Anti-reflective coatings to reduce bounce-back glare.
Hydrophobic and oleophobic layers that resist water, smudges, and fingerprints.
100% UV protection — non-negotiable in Australia’s conditions.
Frames that fit your life
From bold European designs to classics, our collection includes lightweight acetates, titanium, and stainless steel frames, all suitable for prescription sunglasses.
And if you love the iconic sunglasses brand, keep an eye out: we’ll soon be partnering with Maui Jim, known for their exceptional polarised lens technology and lens clarity.
Conclusion
The right prescription lenses transform sunglasses from a style choice into an everyday essential for clarity, comfort, and protection. At Loom Optical, we’ll help you pair frames you love with prescription lenses suitable for your needs. So you can see the Surf Coast with clarity and comfort while protecting your eyes for years to come.
Protect your eyes from Australia’s harsh UV while seeing the Surf Coast in style. Visit Loom Optical in Torquay to explore prescription sunglasses tailored to you.
