Have you found yourself holding your phone, book, or menu at arm’s length just to make out the text? If so, you’re not alone — and no, your eyesight isn’t failing you completely. You’re likely experiencing presbyopia, a natural, age-related eye condition that usually begins in your 40s. Presbyopia causes your eyes to gradually lose the ability to focus on nearby objects, making near vision tasks more difficult over time.
What Are Progressive Addition Lenses?
To address this change in vision, many people turn to progressive addition lenses (PALs), also known as multifocal or varifocal lenses. These innovative lenses help you see clearly at all distances — far, intermediate, and near , all within a single lens.
How Do Progressive Lenses Work?
Each portion of a progressive lens is designed for a different viewing task:
- Top portion: Distance vision tasks such as driving and watching TV.
- Middle portion: Intermediate vision tasks like computer work.
- Bottom portion: Near vision tasks such as reading.
Unlike traditional bifocals or trifocals, progressive lenses don’t have visible lines separating the different lens powers. This means no abrupt jumps or changes in vision when you shift your gaze. Instead, progressive lenses provide a smooth, seamless, and gradual transition between viewing zones.
What to Expect When Using Progressive Lenses
One common characteristic of progressive lenses is peripheral distortion. Since the lens power gradually changes from top to bottom, you might notice some blurring around the edges, particularly in your peripheral (side) vision. Some users describe this as a mild ‘swimming’ or swaying sensation when moving their eyes side to side. Although it may feel unusual at first, most people adapt quickly.
Different Designs of Progressive Lenses
Not all progressive lenses are created equal. The design can make a big difference in comfort and clarity. There are two main types:
- Hard designs: These have wider distance zones and narrower intermediate zones, ideal if sharp distance vision is your priority. However, they may cause more peripheral distortion and take longer to adjust to.
- Soft designs: These provide a wider intermediate zone with smaller distance and near zones. They usually cause less peripheral distortion and are easier to adapt to, making them a great option for those who spend a lot of time on the computer or are new to progressives.
Advances in Progressive Lens Technology
For many years, progressive lenses were made using conventional methods with a one-size-fits-all design. While effective, these lenses often limited peripheral vision and caused more distortion.
Thanks to recent technological advancements, high-definition (HD) free-form lenses are now available. These lenses are custom-made using advanced digital technology tailored precisely to your prescription, your chosen frames, and how they fit your face. The result? Sharper vision, wider viewing areas, and significantly less peripheral distortion.
Explore Our Progressive Lens Options at Spectacle Warehouse
At Spectacle Warehouse, we offer a wide range of progressive addition lenses to suit your needs. For the best in clarity, comfort, and customization, check out our premium Realview HD Multifocal Lens.
Features of Realview HD Multifocal Lenses:
- Built with advanced HD technology for superior precision.
- Available in various materials, from standard plastic to ultra-thin, lightweight high-index options.
- Standard hard coat for scratch resistance.
- Optional premium add-ons like anti-reflective coating (ARC), photochromatic tinting (which darkens in sunlight), and polarization for glare reduction.
Because of the advanced manufacturing process called surfacing where lenses are digitally shaped and polished to your exact prescription, Realview HD lenses require a longer turnaround time.
Need Lenses Fast? Try Our CFL (Continuous Focus) Multifocal Lenses
If you’re prioritizing speed and convenience, our in-house CFL lenses are a fantastic high-quality alternative, ready in just 24 hours thanks to our fully equipped on-site lab. These progressive lenses are made using advanced lens casting technology, where liquid plastic is poured into a mold and hardened into the final shape.
CFL lenses also feature a free-form design to enhance your field of view and can be upgraded to CFL “Smart Shades” — photochromic lenses that automatically darken to grey or brown when exposed to sunlight.
The CFL lens offers exceptional comfort and easy adaptability, making it a great choice for first-time wearers.
Let Us Help You See Clearly
Choosing the right progressive lenses can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. Our experienced team at Spectacle Warehouse will help you find the perfect lenses based on your prescription, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
With our customized lenses, expert fittings, and fast turnaround times, clear vision is closer than you think.