Glossary of Prescription Eyewear Terms for Athletes: What You Need to know
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When you're shopping for performance-ready prescription sunglasses, understanding the language around lenses, frames, and coatings can help you make smarter choices. Whether you're a seasoned pickleballer or new to performance eyewear, this glossary breaks down the essential RX eyewear terms you’ll encounter—without the jargon.
Key Prescription Eyewear Terms Every Athlete Should Know
1. High-Index Lenses
Definition: Lenses designed to be thinner and lighter than standard plastic lenses while maintaining strong optical performance.
Why It Matters: All of Blinded Wear's RX pickleball glasses come with 1.61 high-index lenses at no extra cost, reducing bulk while staying durable for aggressive movement on the court.
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2. Pupillary Distance (PD)
Definition: The distance in millimeters between your pupils, essential for lens accuracy.
Why It Matters: A precise PD ensures your lenses are aligned with your line of sight, optimizing clarity and comfort during fast-paced gameplay.
Learn more: See our RX order breakdown blog.
3. Bridge Fit
Definition: The part of the frame that sits on your nose.
Why It Matters: A poor fit here leads to slippage or pinching. Our sport-fit designs, like the Runway RX, ensure comfort even in long tournaments.
4. Anti-Reflective (AR) Coating
Definition: A lens treatment that reduces glare from sunlight and artificial lights.
Why It Matters: Especially useful during dusk games or indoor lighting. Check out our guide on anti-reflective coatings.
5. Scratch-Resistant Coating
Definition: A protective layer applied to minimize surface damage.
Why It Matters: Vital for any contact sport. All RX pairs include this standard.
6. Base Curve
Definition: The curve of the lens front, which affects fit and field of vision.
Why It Matters: A curved base like that of the Roses Quartz RX improves side vision—critical for reading cross-court plays.
7. Wraparound Frames
Definition: Frame designs that curve around the face.
Why It Matters: Wrap frames, like Steel Ice RX, provide more protection from sun, wind, and unexpected smashes.
8. Lens Tints
Definition: The color added to lenses to reduce brightness and improve contrast.
Why It Matters: Available in gray, clear, or transitions, these options affect how well you see the ball against varied backgrounds. Try the Crystal Wave II RX for a sharp visual edge in changing light.
9. Polycarbonate vs. Trivex
Definition: Two types of impact-resistant lens materials.
Why It Matters: Polycarbonate is standard in sport lenses due to its durability and lightweight feel. Trivex offers slightly better optics but is less common in high-motion frames.
10. Hydrophobic Coating
Definition: A treatment that repels water, sweat, and oil.
Why It Matters: While Blinded Wear doesn’t currently offer this, we break it down in our blog: Hydrophobic Coatings: The Truth.
Call to Action: Want to Know What’s Right for You?
Take the Pickleball RX Sunglasses Quiz to match your playstyle, lighting conditions, and frame preferences with our top-performing models.
Customer Reviews: The Real Glossary Is How They Feel on Court
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"I didn’t even know what high-index meant until I got the Runway RX. Now I realize how much lighter and better-balanced they are. Huge difference."
—Rachel T., FL
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"Steel Ice RX handles sweat, sun, and slides like a dream. I never had to push them up once."
—Carlos M., AZ
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"I grabbed Phantom II RX after taking the quiz—fit perfectly and crystal-clear vision. I recommend these to anyone with a strong prescription."
—Jessica D., NV
FAQ
Q: Do all Blinded Wear RX glasses include high-index lenses?
A: Yes. Every prescription pair comes with 1.61 high-index lenses at no added charge.
Q: What if I order the wrong PD?
A: Contact us immediately—we’ll work with you to make it right. See our FAQ page.
Q: Can I get anti-reflective lenses for my RX pair?
A: Yes. AR is included in non-RX lenses and can be requested during your RX checkout.
Why Understanding the Glossary Matters
The more you know, the better your game. Choosing RX sports eyewear isn’t just about picking the coolest frame—it’s about understanding the design behind it. From high-index lenses to lens curvature, each detail supports better on-court performance.
Shop Smarter, Play Sharper
Browse our full prescription collection and elevate your game with eyewear built for athletes who don’t settle.