Struggling to decide between contact lenses and glasses? Both options offer unique benefits, depending on your lifestyle and vision needs. Whether you’re looking for the convenience of contact lenses for sports, or prefer the easy maintenance of glasses, My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills is here to help you make the best choice. Glasses can be a stylish accessory and are easy to maintain, while contacts provide natural vision and flexibility for active lifestyles. Our optometrists provide personalized fittings and expert advice at our Sunridge and Sundance locations in Calgary, as well as in Three Hills. Book an appointment with My Optometrist today to find the perfect vision solution for you!
When it comes to correcting vision, two main options are available: contact lenses and glasses. Each comes with its own set of benefits and considerations, making the choice deeply personal and dependent on one’s lifestyle, vision needs, and comfort preferences. At My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills, we’re here to guide you through the advantages and disadvantages of both options, helping you make the best choice for your daily life and long-term eye health.
Convenience: Glasses vs. Contact Lenses
Glasses are easy to put on and take off, making them a quick solution for people with busy lives. They don’t require as much upkeep as contacts, which can be helpful for individuals with limited time for maintenance routines. However, glasses can become cumbersome during physical activities, especially sports, and can be affected by weather elements such as rain and fog, which can hinder visibility.
Contact lenses, on the other hand, provide wearers with the freedom to move without worrying about frames slipping off or breaking. For those with active lifestyles, such as athletes, contacts offer convenience, allowing full peripheral vision and the ability to wear protective eyewear comfortably over them. While they do require daily maintenance with contact lens solutions and regular care routines to keep them hygienic and safe, contact lenses are a go-to choice for people seeking an alternative to glasses in active or outdoor settings.
Comfort: Which Feels Better?
Comfort is subjective and varies significantly from one person to another. Glasses sit on the bridge of the nose and around the ears, which can lead to discomfort or pressure over time, especially for individuals with heavier prescriptions that require thicker lenses. However, glasses don't directly touch the eyes, making them suitable for individuals who may struggle with conditions like dry eyes or allergies that might be aggravated by contact lens wear.
Contact lenses have advanced in recent years, with options now available for those with sensitive eyes or specific needs, such as daily contact lenses for a fresh, clean pair every day, which can alleviate discomfort associated with long-term wear. Contact lenses also provide a more natural feel, as they move with your eyes, offering a broader field of vision without the visual interruptions caused by the frames of glasses. However, not everyone finds them comfortable due to potential dryness or irritation, especially if lenses aren’t properly maintained.
Aesthetics: Style and Appearance
For many, glasses are a fun and stylish accessory that adds personality and flair. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, and materials, allowing individuals to match their frames to their style. Glasses can enhance or even define your look, making them a fashionable statement. However, they are visible and alter the natural appearance of your face, which might not appeal to everyone.
Contact lenses offer a more natural look by providing clear vision without changing your appearance. They are virtually invisible, so if you prefer not to alter your facial features or style with eyewear, contacts are ideal. Additionally, coloured contact lenses allow you to temporarily change your eye color for a new look, a popular choice for those looking to experiment with their appearance without making a permanent change.
Health Considerations: What’s Better for Eye Health?
When it comes to health, each option has unique considerations. Glasses don’t touch the eyes directly, which makes them a safe choice with minimal risk of infection or irritation. They also protect the eyes from dust and debris, and My Optometrist offers options with UV protection to shield eyes from harmful sun rays, a valuable benefit for long-term eye health.
Contact lenses, while generally safe when properly used, do come with a slightly higher risk of eye infections if not cared for correctly. It’s essential to follow good hygiene practices, use contact lens solutions as recommended, and avoid overwearing or sleeping in them unless they’re specifically designed for overnight use. For those with specific needs, like contact lenses for astigmatism or prescription contacts, advances in contact lens technology mean that they can be safe and comfortable with the proper care and fitting.
Maintenance and Cost: Which is More Practical?
Glasses are typically more cost-effective in the long term, as a single pair can last for years with the right care. They are easy to clean and maintain, and while they may need occasional adjustments or replacements, they don't require daily upkeep like contacts do. However, individuals may choose to replace frames for style changes or if their prescription updates, which can add to costs over time.
Contact lenses have a more recurring cost, as they need to be replaced on a regular schedule depending on the type – daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. They require contact lens solutions and other accessories for proper maintenance, which can add up. However, for some people, the advantages of contact lenses in terms of comfort and flexibility outweigh the ongoing expenses, making them a worthwhile investment.
Make the Best Choice for Your Eyes and Lifestyle
Deciding between contact lenses and glasses is a personal choice based on factors like comfort, lifestyle, aesthetics, and budget. My Optometrist in Calgary and Three Hills is here to help you navigate these options with a variety of contact lenses and glasses to suit all ages and needs. Whether you’re looking for daily convenience, style options, or the best contact lenses for astigmatism, we provide personalized fittings and comprehensive eye care to support your vision health.
Visit us at our Sunridge and Sundance locations in Calgary or in Three Hills to discuss your vision needs with our experienced team. With routine eye exams, contact lens fittings, and advanced vision solutions available, My Optometrist is committed to finding the right fit for you and enhancing your everyday life with clear, comfortable vision. Alberta Health Care also covers annual comprehensive eye exams for children and seniors - contact My Optometrist today and let us help you see the world more clearly!
FAQ’s
Q: Which is better for an active lifestyle: contact lenses or glasses?
A: Contact lenses are generally better for active lifestyles as they stay in place and provide a full field of vision without the risk of slipping or breaking.
Q: Are contact lenses more expensive than glasses?
A: Contact lenses can have a higher recurring cost due to replacements and solutions, while glasses can last longer and may be more cost-effective in the long term.
Q: How do I know if contact lenses or glasses are better for me?
A: The best choice depends on your lifestyle, comfort, and eye health needs. A visit to My Optometrist in Calgary or Three Hills can provide personalized advice tailored to your preferences – contact us today!