Clip-on sunglasses: Do they work? Clip-on sunglasses can be a convenient and inexpensive way to shield your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun without compromising your vision.
But are they right for you?
Our answers to your frequently asked questions should help you decide:
What are clip-on sunglasses?
Like regular shades, clip-on sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays.
Clip-on sunglasses come in various tints, shapes and sizes, and with different levels of UV protection and special coatings. But, instead of full frames, the two darkened lenses, which are linked together by a bridge for your nose, attach to your regular prescription eyeglasses with clips or magnets.
Do clip-on sunglasses work?
Yes, clip-ons work just as well as “real” sunglasses, as long as they fit properly — i.e., they have the same or similar size and shape as your regular glasses — and provide UV protection for your eyes — preferably the maximum UV 400 or 100% UVA and UVB label.
Which are preferred? Clip-on sunglasses or prescription sunglasses?
The optimal option for you will be based on your needs and preferences.
If you want to be able to wear the same glasses the entire day — especially if your eyes have trouble adjusting when you switch back and forth — or if you already have glasses you like and don’t have the budget for an extra pair of prescription sunglasses, clip-ons might be appropriate for you.
If you like having “pieces with purpose” — glasses for inside and sunglasses for outside — or don’t like the sometimes clunky look of clip-ons, consider prescription sunglasses.
Who makes clip-on sunglasses?
It depends on what you’re looking for.
Are your current prescription eyeglasses ready for an upgrade, or do you like what you have? The type of clip-on sunglasses for you might depend on where you are in your journey with your regular glasses.
I’m ready for something new
If you’re in the market for new glasses and want the added bonus of matching, detachable shades, look for a clip-on set or frames with compatible clip-ons. An optician or eye doctor can share their recommendations.
Pro Tip: If you find clip-ons (or any sunglasses) you like but can't tell how much UV protection they provide, contact customer service for more information. It's important that you get a definite answer before you make any purchase decisions.
I’m happy with what I have
If you love your current eyeglasses and want a quick and easy fix for sun protection, consider “after-market” clip-ons.
These are typically lower-cost, lesser-known brands that can be “clipped on” to any pair of glasses — you just need to find a pair that will fit your current specs.
How are clip-on sunglasses measured?
Clip-on sunglasses are measured with the shape of your prescription frames in mind.
Are your frames round or rectangular? Do they have special qualities? Are they cat-eye or browline frames, or do they have a special kind of bridge?
These are things to keep in mind when shopping for clip-ons because you want them to fit the frames of your regular glasses as closely as possible.
Once you have the shape figured out, clip-ons are measured by height and width in millimeters, just like your frames.
If you aren’t confident in your measuring skills, the numbers on your frames should help, especially the eye size (lens width) and bridge size.
Can I wear sunglasses over my glasses?
You can technically put sunglasses on over your regular glasses, but it’s an awkward fit, and you may end up scratching your prescription lenses when taking your sunglasses on and off.
If you’re looking for a way to protect your eyes from the sun without having to change your current prescription eyeglasses, after-market clip-on sunglasses can be an option.
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