Did you know that Benjamin Franklin invented bifocal reading glasses? That’s right! One of the Founding Fathers of the United States needed bifocals. But don’t knock bifocals as old-person eyewear! People across most age groups can use these lenses.
What are bifocal reading glasses, anyway? Do you need them? Will you need them? Are they all old-fashioned half-rimmed glasses? I’m here to tackle these questions and more! Let’s get into it.
Types of Bifocal Reading Glasses
The word “bifocals” refers to glasses with lenses with two different optical powers. The top half of the lens typically has an optical power to correct refractive errors, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and/or astigmatism. The bottom half addresses presbyopia, a condition caused by the aging of the eye’s lens. Like hyperopia, presbyopia makes it difficult to see objects close up.
There are two main types of bifocal reading glasses: line bifocals and progressive bifocals.
Line bifocal glasses are the more traditional or familiar bifocals. You can actually see the line separating the two optical powers of each lens. When you think of old-fashioned eyeglasses, these bifocals probably come to mind.
Progressive bifocals are called no-line bifocals. They work like traditional bifocal glasses except for the absence of the tell-tale line. Instead of a visual division between the two halves, progressives gradually go from one type of vision correction to another.
Bifocal Reading Glasses for Every Budget
For many, bifocal lenses are indispensable. These glasses help with daily tasks like reading emails, looking at package labels, and reviewing prescriptions. Sure, the right pair can enhance your aesthetic, but most of all, they are necessary eyewear that enables you to function effectively and safely. So, how much will they set you back?
Bifocal Lens Costs
As you might have guessed, bifocal lenses cost more than single-power lenses. Single-power lenses generally cost around $30, depending on where you buy them. You can double that for bifocal lenses, which often start at about $60/pair.
Progressive (no-line) bifocal lenses can start at an even higher price, around $140. When considering the frame options below, be sure to factor in the cost of the bifocal lenses you prefer.
Budget Bifocal Reading Glasses (Under $100)
Basic bifocals are budget options that still look great. To lower your costs, get them with line bifocal lenses. Of course, if you want to splurge on progressive bifocal lenses, these frames can help keep your total cost down.
Wiliwili BLUEBONNET
The Wiliwili BLUEBONNET is a no-nonsense, unisex option. These bold plastic rectangular frames come in black or tortoiseshell. Either looks great and goes with just about anything! These types of timeless bifocals stand out, in a good way, without aging you.
Peachtree PT 55
The Peachtree PT 55 is a unisex thin metal frame. It features a squared shape, a distinguished long brow bar above the bridge, and coated temple tips. Grab yourself a pair in Coffee (brown), Gold, or Gunmetal (silver).
Wiliwili KNIPHOFIA
The Wiliwili KNIPHOFIA is a curious-looking pair of unisex bifocals. The small oval frames are available in black, blue, gold, and D.A./Antique Brown and have coated temple tips to match. Quirky and fun, they’re bifocals that correct your vision while looking fashionable.
Middle of the Road (Under $500)
You don’t always have to pay premium prices for premium style. A few top designer brands fall into the mid-range category!
Oakley AIRDROP OX8046
The Oakley AIRDROP OX8046 is a fine example of “form meets function.” Oakleys are always reliable when you want tough, contemporary frames.
These frames work with any on-the-go outfit. If you have room in your budget, get them with progressive bifocal lenses so no line gets in the way of the sleek look.
Michael Kors MK4067U SANTA CLARA
You can always rely on Michael Kors to design eyewear that fits a wide range of personal styles. The Michael Kors MK4067U SANTA CLARA is a classic pair of black plastic women’s frames with the MK logo on the arms.
Gucci GG0278O
This is Gucci at its classic, luxurious best. The Gucci GG0278O are stylish tortoiseshell women’s frames with the signature Gucci colors and logo on their temple arms.
Who says practical bifocals need to be plain and boring? Get Gucci bifocal reading glasses for a smart, sophisticated look!
Premium Bifocals
If luxury and style are priorities when it comes to bifocal reading glasses, choose these pairs with progressive bifocal lenses. For added visual clarity, consider additional features, such as anti-reflective coating.
Tom Ford Private Collection FT5956-P
When you’re looking for peak luxury in your bifocal reading glasses, choose a pair of Tom Ford Private Collection FT5956-P. Made from titanium, these are durable men’s bifocals suitable for all activities. The deep gold hues of these rimless frames are tasteful accents you’d be happy to show off.
Dita Eyewear STATESMAN-SEVEN
As the name implies, the Dita Eyewear STATESMAN-SEVEN bifocal frame has a stately presence. These bifocal reading glasses are best worn by dignitaries, ambassadors, and stylish men.
Boucheron BC0117O
The Boucheron BC0117O is a sophisticated pair of women’s cat-eye glasses. Get these with progressive no-line lenses to highlight the simple yet luxurious temple arms of this eyewear. Bring them along on daily errands or wear them with your evening wear, whether that’s a cocktail dress or comfy pajamas. They go with everything!
Choosing Your Bifocal Reading Glasses
There is usually an adjustment period when you begin to wear bifocal lenses. You may experience headaches, dizziness, or falls. If you’re not used to them, you’ll need time to get used to lenses with two optical powers.
This makes getting the right prescription doubly important! Book an eye exam with your doctor, and while you’re there, see if you can try out some demo bifocal lenses.
