How to Pick Eyewear for Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle likely involves different activities, hobbies, and work needs, and with that comes certain clothes, shoes, and accessories tailored to the task at hand. Along with the appropriate outfit, you may also want to change up your eyewear to match your day, like switching from glasses while working at your computer, to contacts and sunglasses for a weekend at the beach. Find out which eyewear—glasses, contacts, or both—best suits the aspects of your lifestyle.

athlete kicking ball

1. If you’re active, you may opt for contact lenses and/or durable frames.

Hobbies and careers that require you to always be on the go can pose the risk of injury to your body, including your vision. Glasses can break, shatter, or slip, and can make it more difficult to wear a helmet or protective goggles during high-impact activities. To provide a more natural field of vision, try contact lenses like 1-DAY ACUVUE® MOIST or INFUSE®. Another eyewear option is a durable, flexible frame like InvisaFlex, which features memory metal technology that allows the frame to return to its original shape if dropped or bent, giving you a comfortable fit all day long.

person wearing safety glasses

2. If you work in a manual labor job, try prescription safety glasses and/or polycarbonate lenses.

Safety glasses and goggles are common types of eye protection used in many industries, including agriculture, mining, construction, and manufacturing. Government standards require employers to assess possible eye hazards and provide equipment, including protective eyewear, to keep employees safe. Safety glasses look a lot like normal eyewear but have stronger lenses and frames with side protective shields to meet American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. Another option for people in a physical labor work environment is polycarbonate lenses, which are impact resistant and thinner and lighter than standard plastic, making them great for active lifestyles. Learn more about our safety eyewear program.

sunglass lens

3. If you’re frequently outside, you may opt to wear self-tinting lenses and/or daily disposable contacts.

ZEISS PhotoFusion X lenses self-tint when you switch from indoors to outdoors with the added benefit of embedded blue light protection. As an alternative option, daily contact lenses like 1-DAY ACUVUE® MOIST allow you to start each day with a fresh pair of lenses. At the end of each day, discard the lenses that may have been exposed to allergens or build up during outside activity.

computer monitor

4. If you work in an office, try digital lenses and/or moisture retention contact lenses.

ZEISS SmartLife lenses are specially designed for today’s digital lifestyle to ease the strain on your eyes as you switch from devices throughout the day. ZEISS OfficeLens is specifically optimized for near to intermediate distances, like looking from your desk to your computer screen, which helps to reduce symptoms of digital eye strain. Contacts like Biotrue® ONEday, ACUVUE® OASYS 1-Day with HydraLuxe® Technology, or TOTAL30® are great for the office because they provide extended moisture for all-day comfort.

Computer User

5. If you work at a computer or play video games, you may prefer an anti-reflective lens coating and/or blue light blocking contact lenses.

ZEISS DuraVision® Platinum UV coating is designed to reduce reflections and glare while preventing the build-up of dust and lint, which makes them easy to clean. ZEISS DuraVision® BlueProtect UV coating reflects blue light, reducing the transmission of harmful light to reduce eye strain and provide clarity. Pair either of these functional lens coatings with a stylish frame to enhance your vision and your look. Contacts like ACUVUE® OASYS MAX 1-Day offer blue light blocking technology to allow you to see clearly and comfortably while using digital devices.

Frequent Driver

6. If you’re frequently on the road, try polarized sunglasses and/or driving lenses.

Polarized sunglasses eliminate distracting glare off surfaces such as water, snow, and roadways to decrease eye strain and enhance clarity. Check our guide on how to choose the best sunglasses for you. For another option, try ZEISS DriveSafe lenses, which allow you to comfortably shift your vision from the road to the dashboard and mirrors while reducing glare and discomfort especially in low-light and difficult weather conditions.

The decision to wear contacts or glasses for certain events or occasions is a matter of personal preference. We offer fashionable frames, premium lenses, anti-reflective coatings, and comfortable contacts that can work for you in any setting. We’ll take the time to explain your options and match you with the most functional eyewear that will work best for you.

Ready for an Eye Exam?

Schedule an appointment at your nearest Shopko Optical location today.

Schedule an Appointment

 

 


Sign up to get the latest on eye health, other eye care matters, discounts and promotions.