Gentlemen,
I have searched this topic and find the polarized lens issue to be fairly common as it pertains to visibility of data collector screens.
I have some pretty old eyes and I am not a candidate for Lasik, consequently, I need corrective lenses. I also appreciate the dangers of exposing the eyes to sunlight for as many days as I have spent in the field since the early 1970s.
For the past 15 years I have purchased several RayBan frames with progressive prescription glass lenses and they always come with polarization. These have always served me well for driving and recreation but I have to take them off to see a data collector screen.
I have spoken to optometrists at various retail vision outlets and every one has told me that prescription sunglasses are only available with some form of polarization. During my most recent visit, I was told that pilots always request non-polarized lenses, but this entity could not tell me where such lenses could be had.
Can anyone tell me where one might find a source for non-polarized prescription sunglasses? (preferably glass)
Your input is greatly appreciated.
JA, PLS SoCal
Just turn your head a little, the polarization lines are horizontal. Once your not in line with the screen, it will show up.
If you take two polarized lenses and turn one 90 degrees, it blacks out totally.
Of course, you will look like a bird cocking it's head, though.
that's funny. I was going to say the lines are vertical
But, yes, just turn the screen 90 degrees and you can see it.
Last I checked, Rayban and Oakley both had non-polarized but you have to pick a fight with somebody to get them.
well, as long as they aren't parallel with the screen, I guess. Doesn't have to be a full turn either, just offset somewhat.
I've thought of marketing a line of polarized glasses where the lines are at 45 degrees so that people like us, (and pilots I guess) could use them without getting a stiff neck!
Not so. Circular polarization is commonly available, too. In regard to ALL sunglasses being polarized, that's not so also. I couldn't see most of the displays in my Lexus 400SL and specified non-polarized prescription lenses. Been wearing them for years. Recently upgraded my car, and no displays are polarized; still like wearing non-polarized spectacles.
Andy,
I have a hard enough time reading text when it is horizontal or in line with my eyeballs. Throw me a 45 degree angle and It might as well be Sanskrit.
Believe me, I have tried that.
I can't believe what I am looking for does not exist.
Thanks,
JA, PLS SoCal
Dr. Cliff,
Can you specify a source?
The Lenscrafters, Costcos and my local shop all tell me this animal does not exist.
Thanks,
JA, PLS SoCal
> Last I checked, Rayban and Oakley both had non-polarized but you have to pick a fight with somebody to get them.
I gave up trying to wear sunglasses in the field. Aviator RayBans was the last I had. Besides being just one more thing to lose, it got to be an annoyance. I couldn't look through the gun nevermind dealing with the DC screen.
Oakley - sure get me some! Best bust out a fat checkbook. Just give me a hat.
As to the prescription thing, I might could ask my Dad. I don't need glasses except for maybe some serious reading. Dad has wore glasses since before he made me. He gave up his pilot's license because he had to get eye examed every year. (he is 76 now).
I did try some yellow tinted shooters glasses once to see how my computer screens looked. BAD idea!! They are good for outside but I never had a chance to see a data collector screen.
Eyemax Family Optical in Baton Rouge (225) 766-3181.
I'm sure that's true, my generalization was meant in slight jest, but it works for me!
I'm no expert and have never had to wear glasses before.
Every pair of polarized sunglasses I have ever encountered since I was a kid have had the lines run that way.
Dr. Cliff,
I realize that non-polarized sunglasses are available. I have several.
I meant prescription sunglasses.
JA, PLS SoCal
Eyemax is where I get my prescription non-polarized sunglasses.
Non Polarized Clip On Sunglasses
Even though not polarized you may want to flip them up to view the screen.
Since I require glasses for distance viewing (2-/350 plus astigmatism) I often remove them to check the data collector and instrument screen. Comes with the territory of old eyes, being able to remove the glasses sure beats the alternative of not seeing at all.
BTW my prsecription distance and computer spectacles are industrial strength safety glass. Habit from many years in the steel industry. Plastic, no matter how light, just does not do the job. I tried bifocals and blended glasses and find it less strain on the neck to switch glasses as appropriate. My computer glasses are focused for the computer screen and not for book reading. I am perfectly comfortable reading a book without glasses, but cannot adjust to the greater computer screen focal point without correction.
Paul in PA
> > > Just give me a hat.
>
> It's not a vernacular...it's a DERBY
>
> DDSM;-)
Nah, I'll take the bowler just for show.
The Panama Jack would probably be best for survey work. Ask Kent. I think he sports one.
My experience as a gunner was that all hats get in the way - including hard hats when we were required. I was the only one to never get written up or b....ched at for not having my hat on "at all times".
Polarized lens are great out in the sun and will cut most any glare.
They do not work well with new gadget screens like at the checkout lane, any red light screen in 10yr old vehicles and ancient calculators, electronic watch dials and price check monitors inside stores and some fuel pump and credit card dials.
The clip on "Solar Shield", come in grey and amber lens, are great driving spectacles.
B-)
Have you looked at the Adidas range, They have several ranges for outdoors, that allow for prescription lense's to be inserted behind the frame.
I have been using them for several years, have one set out insert prescription lenses and several different sunglass frames , you just clip out the insert and stick it in the glasses you fell like wearing that day. I keep a frame with clear lenses for driving at night in the van , then just switch out the inserts.
The advantage is that you only have to change the prescription lenses as your eyes get old, not the whole frame and you have many styles to chose from.
Goggle adidas prescription sunglasses frames
You will see the range of glasses they have with the different inserts
I have multi focal lenses fitted into my inserts, very few people ever realize that there are prescription lenses sitting behind my sunglass frames.
There are polarized and non polarized ranges to chose from.
Jerry, when I recently had similar trouble this year I ultimately realized that PART of my trouble also involved seasonal allergy flare ups. At any rate my solution included CHEAP ($20 ish) motorcycle sunglasses and goggles. Maybe you could get some goggles to cover your regular prescription glasses? Caution, you will look so studly and awesome the fans will come out in droves. Good luck:
Again, I am astonished at the markup in prices for frames.
While in Vietnam, I bought several nice frames for $8 each.
The frames I have been using for the last 6yrs, I had to bargain and barter with the lady, and paid $12.
Each frame came with a zipped Naugahyde padded case.
😉
