Prescription sunglasses

Prescription sunglasses combine vision correction with full UV protection, giving you clearer sight and safer eyes when you're outdoors. Whether you're driving, walking, enjoying a sunny holiday, or simply spending time outside, these lenses are tailored to your exact prescription while keeping your eyes shielded from harmful rays.

Having the right pair of prescription sunglasses isn’t just about style, it’s an essential part of protecting your long-term eye health. Ready to get started? Book your eye test today to make sure your prescription is up-to-date.

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Why choose prescription sunglasses?

Standard sunglasses may look the part, but if you wear prescription glasses, they won’t correct your vision. Prescription sunglasses offer both vision correction and sun protection in one easy pair.

Wearing prescription sunglasses can improve your quality of life significantly. Here's all the benefits of wearing prescription sunglasses:

UV protection

100% protection from UVA and UVB rays, which can contribute to cataracts and other eye conditions.

Glare reduction

Polarised options reduce glare from reflective surfaces like roads, water, and snow.

Comfort & clarity

Prevents eye strain, watering, and discomfort caused by squinting in sunlight.

Customisation

Tailor your lenses with tints, mirror coatings, or transitions to suit your needs.

All-day use

Ideal for walking, working outdoors, and driving, especially during long summer days.

Who should wear prescription sunglasses?

Prescription sunglasses are ideal for anyone who needs vision correction, such as those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, and wants clear, comfortable vision outdoors. They are especially recommended for:

  • People who wear prescription glasses and spend time outside, as prescription sunglasses provide both corrected vision and 100% UV protection, helping to prevent eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.
  • Individuals with light sensitivity, who benefit from reduced glare and enhanced comfort in bright conditions.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts, drivers, and travellers, as prescription sunglasses improve safety and visual clarity during activities such as driving, sports, and time spent at the beach or in nature.
  • Children, since protecting young eyes from harmful UV rays is crucial for long-term eye health.

For those who do not require vision correction, wearing regular sunglasses with 100% UV protection is equally important to safeguard your eyes from harmful sun damage and reduce glare.

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How much do prescription sunglasses cost?

The cost of prescription sunglasses in the UK varies depending on the retailer, frame style, lens type, and any added features. At Leightons, prices start from just £159 with our exclusive Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow (Y.T.T.) collection, combining quality and style at an accessible price. This includes both the frame and prescription lenses with 100% UV protection as standard. Non-prescription sunglasses from the same collection are available from £99.

For those after designer options, we offer brands like Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Maui Jim, with or without prescription lenses. Prices may vary based on your frame choice and optional upgrades such as polarised lenses, thinner materials, or specialist coatings, perfect for driving, sports, or holidays.

For a personalised quote, simply ask your optician during your appointment. Whether you prefer timeless classics or bold statement pieces, our curated range has something to suit every style and budget.

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Kids sunglasses

Prescription sunglasses are ideal for anyone who needs vision correction, such as those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, and wants clear, comfortable vision outdoors. They are especially recommended for:

  • People who wear prescription glasses and spend time outside, as prescription sunglasses provide both corrected vision and 100% UV protection, helping to prevent eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.
  • Individuals with light sensitivity, who benefit from reduced glare and enhanced comfort in bright conditions.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts, drivers, and travellers, as prescription sunglasses improve safety and visual clarity during activities such as driving, sports, and time spent at the beach or in nature.
  • Children, since protecting young eyes from harmful UV rays is crucial for long-term eye health.

For those who do not require vision correction, wearing regular sunglasses with 100% UV protection is equally important to safeguard your eyes from harmful sun damage and reduce glare.

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Stylized purple heart shape with a loop design at the bottom.
See Now, Pay Later payment plan
Looking for some sunglasses with that extra wow factor but without the expense all in one go? Spread the cost of your purchase over 10 monthly payments with 0% interest and only a 10% deposit.
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A pair of stylish Oakley sunglasses with brown lenses and unique frame design.
Save 20% off your glasses with MyLeightons
With the MyLeightons Care Plan, you’ll enjoy regular eye examinations to keep your prescription up to date, exclusive discounts on glasses, lenses and accessories, and breakage cover.
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Why choose prescription sunglasses from Leightons?

At Leightons, we believe sunglasses should do more than block the sun, they should enhance your vision, complement your style, and fit seamlessly into your lifestyle all year round. Our Qualified Dispensing Opticians are here to guide you through every step of the process, from selecting lens options to finding frames that suit your face shape perfectly.

Every pair of prescription sunglasses we dispense is tailored to your exact prescription needs, ensuring clear, comfortable vision outdoors without compromise. Plus, our collection includes only CE-marked and UV400-rated options for maximum eye health protection.

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Booking an appointment is easy - choose a time that works for you with our simple online system. Prefer to speak to someone? Call us on 0800 40 20 20 (lines open Mon–Sat, 8.30am – 5pm).

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Whether you need expert optical or hearing care, our friendly teams are here to help. With 36 branches across the South of England, finding your local Leightons is just a click away with our branch finder.

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FAQs About Prescription Sunglasses

Not all sunglasses provide UV protection. To ensure your sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays, look for the CE mark, UV400 rating, or British Standard BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013 on the frame or packaging. These marks guarantee a safe level of UV protection. If you are not sure, ask your opticians.

Yes, you can usually use your current prescription to order prescription sunglasses, provided it is still valid and up to date. For the best vision and comfort, it’s recommended to have an eye test if your prescription is more than two years old or if you notice changes in your vision.

Absolutely, prescription sunglasses are available in a wide range of designer frames from popular brands, so you can combine vision correction, UV protection, and personal style.

Children and some adults eligible for NHS optical vouchers can use them towards the cost of prescription sunglasses. This can make prescription sunglasses more affordable, especially for children, who are more vulnerable to UV damage.

Yes, most prescription sunglasses are suitable for driving, especially those with category 2 or 3 lenses that provide adequate glare reduction and UV protection.

You should replace your sunglasses if they become scratched, damaged, or if the UV protection coating wears off. It’s also wise to update your sunglasses whenever your prescription changes or at least every two years, in line with regular eye test recommendations, to ensure optimal vision and protection for you and your family.