Create your own reader sunglasses aka “ bifocal sunglasses “

jlkz · ‎12-02-2013

Recently my reader sunglasses ( search "bifocal sunglasses" ) broke the side arm. These were perfect for riding in the car and having to read signs, maps, etc for DH. They also kept my eyes from getting dry when the AC was on.

I search on line for ready to go bifocal sunglasses. Most of the reviews addressed shoddy workmanship despite being expensive so I didn't pursue them.

I found a pair of regular sunglasses by Vince Camuto and decided to search for stick on readers at 2.50. Found a pair for under $20. Created my own bifocal sunglasses in minutes.

I read all the reviews for different diopters. The ones I got folks complained that they ordered the type that came with 2 sets of stick

We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.
Sir Winston Churchill

Icegoddess · ‎03-19-2010

I don't think I could drive with bifocals. I've tried the Progressives before and had to hold my head at an odd angle to use them for reading, so I returned them. I aslo have a pair of the old Joy Mangano bifocal sunglasses readers from when she used to sell whole sets of readers on HSN or QVC, can't remember which. I really miss those although I didn't like the shape of them.

However, I find regular sunglasses give me a little blurry vision. Not sure why when my vision doesn't seem blurry without glasses; maybe it's the lower light. But sometimes I really need sunglasses when driving even if it's an overcast, but bright day.

My opthalmologist suggested I get some lower level readers than what I normally use for reading. Found some at Peepers and just guessed at what level I would need knowing what I use now. Turned out perfect. Such a relief not to be squinting while driving. I'm really careful with them, always putting them back in the case that came with them when I'm done. My other readers don't fare that well. I'm really rough on them (which is one reason I miss those Joy Mangano sets).

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

I've had the stick on things in the distant past but found them unsatisfactory. The "stick" didn't last long and the clear upper lens didn't do a thing for my distance vision. I've never had any trouble driving in bifocals or progressives, however.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

Carmie · ‎10-25-2010

I am extremely near sighted. Thankfully, I do not need glasses for close up. I can thread a needle in seconds.

Unfortunately, I need glasses to drive. I can't even read road signs without glasses. I also wear a one contact lens under glasses for my right eye.

So, no bifocals for me. Those stick on readers sound interesting though. I will keep them in mind. They sound like nice fun little gifts to surprise someone with.

sueinsf · ‎03-13-2010

I have 3 pairs of sunglass readers. I think I got them all in reader sets from Joy Mangano years ago so they were inexpensive. They have worked just fine for me, but I don't drive in them (I don't own a car), although I suppose I could.

bikerbabe · ‎03-09-2010

I’ve had progressive transition with a hefty astigmatism correction for years.

cindyNC · ‎08-01-2019

@jlkz Thanks for the suggestion. I'm going to get some of those for my sunglasses. I tried some of the new progressive readers and they didn't work for me.

Lilysmom1 · ‎11-08-2020

@jlkz Costco sells several versions of reader sunglasses in store and online. Should note I am in Canada but I am sure they they would be available in US as well. You don't need to be a member to shop online. They come in several strengths.

I have been wearing them for years. Good quality at a reasonable price. I go for the lightest frame possible.