Eyeglass Lens Materials in Honolulu | Benefits, Thinness & Safety

Eyeglass Lens Materials

Eyeglass Lens Materials: Benefits & Best Uses

At Simply Eyes Hawaii, we’re here to help you choose the right lenses for clear, comfortable vision—whether you’re driving in bright Honolulu sunshine, working on a screen, or enjoying time at the beach.

Ray Ban's Meta eyeglasses are available at Simply Eyes Hawaii, located in Honolulu, HI

Quick Overview

Everyday value: CR‑39 plastic (great optics, affordable)
Active & kids: Polycarbonate (impact‑resistant, built‑in UV)
Crisp & light: Trivex (sharp optics + impact protection)
Thinnest look: High‑index (1.60 / 1.67 / 1.74)
Scratch‑resistant optics: Glass (excellent clarity, but heavier)

Island tip: With Hawai‘i’s strong sun and ocean glare, UV protection, anti‑reflective coating, and smudge‑resistant coatings are especially important.

Lens Materials Side‑by‑Side

Material	Best For	Advantages	Things to Know
CR‑39 (plastic)	Everyday wear on a budget	Great optical clarity, lighter than glass, affordable	Thicker in higher prescriptions; less impact‑resistant
Polycarbonate	Kids, sports, safety glasses	Very impact‑resistant, naturally blocks UV, thin & light	Slightly less crisp optics without a good AR coating
Trivex	Everyday clarity & comfort	Crisp optics, light, strong for rimless styles	Slightly thicker in stronger prescriptions
High‑Index 1.60 / 1.67 / 1.74	Moderate‑to‑strong prescriptions	Slim, light, reduces “bulging” look	More reflective—always pair with AR
Glass	Those who value clarity & scratch resistance	Excellent optics, most scratch‑resistant	Heavier, can break, not safe for kids or sports

Choosing What’s Right for You

CR‑39 (Standard Plastic)

Best for: Mild prescriptions, readers, or back‑up glasses.
Why: Clear optics at the most affordable price.
Tip: Add a scratch‑resistant coat and AR for comfort and durability.

Polycarbonate

Best for: Kids, athletes, and anyone needing extra safety.
Why: Impact‑resistant and built‑in UV protection.
Tip: Add AR to reduce glare from headlights and digital screens.

Trivex

Best for: All‑day wearers who want crisp optics in a light lens.
Why: Combines clarity, comfort, and strength.
Tip: Perfect for rimless styles; add premium AR for the clearest view.

High‑Index (1.60 / 1.67 / 1.74)

Best for: Moderate to high prescriptions where thinness matters.
Why: Slimmer, lighter, and more flattering.
Tip: Always pair with premium AR since high‑index reflects more light.

Glass

Best for: Careful users who value scratch resistance above all.
Why: Clear optics and durable surface.
Tip: Heavier and less safe—generally not recommended for active wear.

Eyeglass lens Materials

Essential Lens Options in Hawai‘i

100% UV Protection: Built into poly and Trivex; can be added to CR‑39.
Anti‑Reflective (AR): Clearer vision, safer night driving, and lenses that look better in photos.
Scratch Resistance: Helps lenses last longer—especially around beach sand.
Blue‑Light Filters: For comfort during long hours on screens.
Polarized Lenses: Reduce glare from roads and water—perfect for island life.
Photochromic Lenses: Darken outdoors, clear indoors; driving‑optimized options available.