Good vision is essential for both health and daily life. Quality prescription glasses and lenses can make all the difference in how you see the world and how the world sees you. This article aims to guide you through the best Canadian online prescription glasses stores.
Whether you wear glasses daily or just need prescription sunglasses for those sunny days, buying glasses online can offer you convenience and variety. We’ll also touch on contact lenses and how to find cheap prescription glasses without sacrificing quality.
This guide is your go-to resource if you’re considering buying glasses online, especially in Canada.
Let’s move on to understand why online prescription glasses have increasingly become a popular choice.
Table of Contents
Why Buy Glasses Online?
When purchasing new glasses, many consider brick-and-mortar stores the first option. However, the trend of buying glasses online is on the rise, offering a variety of benefits that traditional stores simply can’t match.
Let’s discuss compelling reasons to consider glasses online for your next eyewear purchase.
Convenience
The most obvious benefit of buying glasses online is the convenience it offers. You can browse hundreds of styles and designer brands from the comfort of your home.
No more hopping from one store to another in search of the perfect frame. Also, online stores often have a virtual try-on feature to see how different frames will look on your face shape without leaving your house.
Plus, with a few clicks, you can order prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, or even prescription lenses to fit into your own designer frames.
Variety
Traditional stores have limited shelf space, which often means a restricted selection of frames and lenses. On the other hand, online stores offer a wide array of designer, titanium, and even high-quality glasses with progressive lenses.
Whether you’re looking for something specific, like blue light lenses to protect your eyes from the blue light emitted by digital devices, or you’re after a particular style of designer frames, chances are you’ll find more options online.
Price Comparison
One of the most daunting aspects of buying new glasses is the cost. The price can quickly add up, especially if you’re considering designer brands. But one of the advantages of buying glasses online is the ease with which you can compare prices.
Many online stores offer high-quality glasses at competitive prices, sometimes even free blue light lenses or discounts on prescription sunglasses. This makes it easier to find glasses online in Canada that suit your style and budget.
Key Features to Look for
So, you’re convinced that online shopping for eyewear offers various advantages. But how do you ensure you pick the best glasses for your needs?
Let’s investigate the crucial features you should consider when buying glasses online in Canada. From ensuring the accuracy of your prescription to selecting the right material for your frames, we’ve got you covered.
Prescription Accuracy
First and foremost, a valid prescription is key to ensuring your glasses improve your vision. To get this right, it’s advisable to consult an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam.
Even though you’re not walking into a physical store, most reputable online retailers will require you to input this prescription. Some online stores even have partnerships with optical labs to double-check that your prescription is accurate.
Therefore, before you purchase, ensure you have an up-to-date prescription from a qualified eye doctor.
Frame Material
The next step in finding the right glasses is choosing the material for your frames. Generally, you’ll encounter plastic frames and metal frames when shopping online.
Plastic frames, like those you’d find from Ray-Ban, are generally lighter and come in more varieties of colors and frame shapes, such as cat-eye or square. Metal frames offer a more professional and sometimes high-end look.
Brands like Zenni Optical often offer a good selection of both. The material you choose should suit your lifestyle, comfort preferences, and, of course, your style.
Lens Options
After settling on a frame, it’s time to look at lens options. Different glasses are designed for specific needs, such as lenses that correct astigmatism or anti-glare coating for reduced eye strain.
Moreover, you can choose high-end glasses with specialized features like transition lenses, which darken in sunlight, or progressive lenses for multiple vision corrections in one lens. As you explore glasses online in Canada, check whether the virtual try-on features also give you an idea of how different lenses will look and feel.
When shopping online, especially if it’s your first time, it might feel daunting to choose the right glasses without the immediate guidance you get in physical stores. But armed with this information, you’ll be better equipped to find glasses that aren’t just a fashion statement but also a boon for your vision.
Here are some of the top online stores where you can find an excellent range of options to suit your eyewear needs.
Clearly
One of the most recognized names in the online eyewear market in Canada is Clearly. This British Columbia-based retailer has significantly impacted how Canadians view online glasses.
From a wide range of frames to specialized lenses, Clearly provides an all-encompassing shopping experience.
Top-Selling Sunglasses: “Kam Dhillon Huntress,” “Persol PO3048S”
Clearly offers a mix of function and style when it comes to sunglasses. Among their top-selling options are the “Kam Dhillon Huntress,” known for its bold frames, and “Persol PO3048S,” which offers a timeless design.
These are not just fashion accessories; they come with options for prescription and photochromic lenses, which darken automatically when exposed to sunlight.
Customer Service Features: Virtual Try-On, 30-Day Return Policy
Making a first purchase of eyewear online can be nerve-wracking. Clearly offers a virtual try-on feature to ease this process, allowing you to try different frames from the comfort of your own home.
Additionally, if you’re unsatisfied with your order online, the company provides a 30-day free returns policy. It’s also worth noting that they have helpful guides and even an eye exam feature to ensure you get the right fit and prescription.
BonLook
Moving away from Clearly, another go-to option for online glasses is BonLook. This brand brings a unique flair to the eyewear market, offering designer-level styles at accessible prices.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes BonLook stand out among many websites offering eyewear.
Top-Selling Sunglasses: “Imagine,” “Harper”
BonLook’s sunglasses are not just about shielding your eyes from the sun; they are fashion statements. The “Imagine” and “Harper” designs have been particularly well-received, offering distinctive styles that stand out.
As with other sites, you can add prescription lenses to these frames.
Unique Offerings: Collaboration Collections with Celebrities
What sets BonLook apart are its unique collaborations with celebrities to create exclusive frames. These collections add an extra layer of allure, allowing you to sport the same eyewear as some of your favorite stars.
While prices start slightly higher than competitors like Warby Parker or Bailey Nelson, the unique style offerings make it worth the investment.
Hakim Optical
As we continue to explore buy glasses online options, Hakim Optical comes into focus. With a blend of online and physical store services, this Canadian retailer adds a traditional touch to the modern convenience of buying prescription glasses online.
Top-Selling Sunglasses: “Hakim Sun 220,” “Hakim Sun 330”
When safeguarding your eyes from the sun’s glare, Hakim Optical doesn’t compromise. Two top-selling sunglasses are the “Hakim Sun 220” and “Hakim Sun 330.”
These options aren’t just about good looks; they offer versatility, as you can add your prescription lenses. This means you can sport a trendy pair of shades while also enjoying clear vision.
Customer Service Features: In-Store Fittings Available, One-Year Warranty
Hakim Optical offers in-store fittings for those who prefer trying on frames before purchasing. This feature is perfect for those uncertain about their frame shape or size.
Moreover, all their eyeglasses come with a one-year warranty, offering peace of mind that is often missing when buying online. This added assurance makes Hakim Optical a reliable choice for those on the fence about making a new pair of glasses purchased online.
EyeBuyDirect
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about EyeBuyDirect. Known for its affordable pricing and stylish options, this online retailer has become one of the popular brands for prescription glasses in Canada.
Top-Selling Sunglasses: “St Michel,” “Sorrento”
Affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing style or functionality. EyeBuyDirect’s top-selling sunglasses, “St Michel” and “Sorrento,” are a testament to this.
Both models offer an attractive design that rivals some designer glasses like Ray-Ban. Plus, you can incorporate your prescription into these lenses, making them a practical choice.
Price Range: Affordable Options Under $50
One of the standout features of EyeBuyDirect is its pricing. While you can certainly find premium options, the retailer offers a range of stylish frames and lenses under the $50 mark.
For budget-conscious consumers who may find even Warby Parker a bit pricey, this makes EyeBuyDirect a go-to option.
Optically Canada
Switching gears a bit, let’s take a look at Optically Canada. This online store stands out for several reasons, especially its customer service features.
For those apprehensive about the idea of buying glasses online, Optically Canada offers some compelling reassurances.
Top-Selling Sunglasses: “Wayfarer 2140,” “Aviator Classic”
Optically Canada understands that sunglasses are as much about style as they protect your eyes. Two of their top sellers are classic designs: “Wayfarer 2140” and “Aviator Classic.”
These iconic shapes have stood the test of time, and you can opt to include prescription lenses in them for a perfect blend of function and fashion.
Customer Service Features: 100% Money-Back Guarantee, Free Shipping
Customer satisfaction is a top priority for Optically Canada. They offer a 100% money-back guarantee, significantly reducing the risk of buying glasses online.
And if you’re concerned about hidden costs, they also offer free shipping within Canada, making it even more budget-friendly to order your eyeglasses.
Zenni Optical (Ships to Canada)
For our final spotlight, let’s explore Zenni Optical. Although not based in Canada, Zenni has become an increasingly popular option for Canadians seeking affordable eyewear.
With a wide range of styles and prices, Zenni Optical truly has something for everyone.
Top-Selling Sunglasses: “Browline Glasses 123921,” “Aviator Glasses 419011”
When it comes to variety, Zenni Optical is hard to beat. Among their top-selling sunglasses are the “Browline Glasses 321921” and “Aviator Glasses 419011.”
These styles show that you can both look good and see clearly, as these models are also customizable with prescription lenses from Zenni’s own optical lab.
Price Range: Wide Range, Including Options Under $20
But what sets Zenni Optical apart is its pricing. With options that range from high-end to incredibly affordable choices under $20, you can upgrade your eyewear without breaking the bank.
The price range is broad enough to include just about any budget, making it a versatile choice for those in Canada looking to buy glasses online.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, finding the right pair of eyeglasses has never been easier, thanks to the many online options available in Canada. From Clearly’s top-of-the-line customer service features to Hakim Optical’s in-store fittings, there’s a platform to suit everyone’s needs.
Looking for affordability? EyeBuyDirect and Zenni Optical have got you covered with high-quality, budget-friendly options. And let’s not forget about Optically Canada, which offers a 100% money-back guarantee to put any reservations at ease.
Whether you’re seeking prescription lenses or designer frames or just want to try a new look, you can do it all from the comfort of your home. With this guide, you can make an informed choice and snag that perfect pair. Happy shopping!
