If you love Oakley glasses or sunglasses, you’ve probably noticed the eye-popping cost for not only their frames, but their specialized lenses too.
And if you need to customize them with prescription lenses? FUGHEDDABOUTIT.
Are they really worth the premium over a generic lens? Here are a few of the reasons why Oakley prescription lenses cost an arm and a leg (plus how to get them for less).
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High-Quality Materials
Oakley is known for using high-quality materials in their eyewear, including their lenses.
Naturally, they’ve also patented their own high-grade polycarbonate lens – called Plutonite – which they claim is more optically pure than your everyday polycarbonate eyeglass lens.
Oakley lenses have superior optical clarity and impact protection, making them excellent for performance sport use and everyday wear.
This is why Oakley prescription lenses cost more than those found in a no-name brand.
The lenses feature proprietary technologies such as High Definition Optics (HDO) that make sure your vision is always clear and distortion-free.
The high-quality material is designed to provide superior clarity, durability and impact resistance, as well as built-in 100% UVA/B/C protection.
Cutting-Edge Lens Tech
Oakley lenses are equipped with a range of advanced technologies that enhance their performance.
For example, their PRIZM lenses are engineered to enhance color, contrast, and detail, making them ideal for specific sports and activities.
Oakley also developed Transitions® Light Intelligent Lenses™, which automatically adjust to changing light conditions. This technology is designed to provide the best possible vision in any setting.
Additionally, Oakley uses advanced optical practices including cutting lenses from a single sheet and tapering the thickness at the edges to reduce distortion and preserve visual clarity to the highest degree possible.
These advanced technologies are expensive, and contribute significantly to the high cost of Oakley prescription lenses.
Customization Options
Oakley offers a wide range of customization options for their lenses, allowing customers to choose the best lens material and coatings for their needs.
Their performance sunglass lenses come in a range of tints, mirror coatings, polarization options and more.
Their PRIZM lenses are designed with precision engineering to provide enhanced visibility in specific environments.
They use advanced technology to optimize the transmission of light and provide enhanced contrast, color, clarity and detail.
These lenses help improve the ability to pick out subtle details like changes in terrain or unexpected obstacles while providing protection from harmful UV rays.
The unique design of Oakley PRIZM lenses also offers a wide range of benefits, including improved depth perception, better eye protection against glare, and reduced strain on the eyes.
With their durable construction and impressive optical performance, these lenses are perfect for any outdoor activity or situation where enhanced visibility is essential.
These customization options can increase the cost of Oakley lenses significantly. And when you add in prescription lenses, the price jumps even higher.
Brand Reputation
It’s a given that whenever you purchase a designer or brand name anything, you’re also paying for the reputation and status that comes along with it.
Oakley is well-known and respected in the eyewear industry, so it’s no surprise that it comes with a premium price tag.
Some people swear by Oakleys, while others are just as happy with a less expensive brand. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and lifestyle.
If you value superior performance and want the best possible vision protection, then Oakley prescription lenses might be worth the cost.
How To Save Money On Prescription Oakley Glasses
If you have your heart set on a pair of prescription Oakleys but can’t part with the amount of cash required, there are several ways to get them for less.
Oakley.com Sales
First, you can check out Oakley’s sale section for discounted glasses and sunglasses. You’ll save on the frame and in some cases even the lenses too if they’re offering discounts on lenses at the same time.
Shop Discounted Oakley Sunglasses & Apparel
Discounted Frames On Ebay or Forums
There are loads of Oakley frames for sale on Ebay, usually at a great discount. Just make sure you look closely at the condition and ask plenty of questions before you commit to purchase.
You can also search online forums or classified ads in your area to find discounted frames. This is especially helpful if you’re looking for rare or discontinued styles since they can often be harder to find.
Oakley Frames Without Oakley Lenses
When it comes to prescription lenses, you don’t necessarily have to get them filled by Oakley.
It’s possible to purchase the frame and have your optician fill your prescription lenses with in-house lenses.
(You’ll want to ask before purchasing your Oakleys elsewhere to be sure he or she is willing to do this and that the lenses are compatible with the frame.)
This can help cut down on costs significantly while still getting customized lenses for your needs.
Use Vision Insurance or Pay with FSA/HSA Funds
Using your vision insurance or paying with money from your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) can also help save money.
Vision insurance normally covers a portion of the cost of frames and lenses, so using vision insurance can reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
And, prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses are eligible for reimbursement using FSA/HSA funds, so you can use pre-tax dollars towards your purchase.
Buy From An Authorized Online Retailer
Finally, one of the best ways to save on prescription Oakley glasses is to buy them from an authorized online optical retailer such as GlassesUSA, EyeBuyDirect, or SmartBuyGlasses.
Buying from a legitimate dealer helps ensure you’re getting authentic Oakleys, plus they can also fill your prescription lens order too.
Many have special discounts or coupon codes that can make them even more affordable.
Stack that with reimbursement from FSA funds or an out-of-network insurance claim, and you’ve just saved yourself a tidy sum of cash.