Clip-On Sunglasses

Clip-on sunglasses are tinted lens accessories designed to attach to the front of a compatible prescription glasses frames. Converting the frame into sunglasses instantly without the need for a second pair.

The most modern type are magnetic clip-on sunglasses. These use embedded magnets in the prescription frame to attach the clip-on into exact alignment. The clip sits flush against the frame. Providing full sun protection while leaving your prescription lenses and your vision correction completely unaffected.

Yes. Clip-on sunglasses are specifically designed for prescription glasses wearers. The clip-on itself is non-prescription and sits in front of your corrective lenses covering the full lens width. Your prescription is unchanged, meaning you continue to see clearly with your full vision correction. The clip-on provides the tint and UV protection of sunglasses.

Prescription frames with magnetic clip-on compatibility are available at Direct Sight.

Magnetic clip-on glasses use micro-magnets embedded into the prescription frame during manufacture. These align with matching magnets in the clip-on accessory. This allows the clip to attach on and off with no tools required. They sit flush and invisible against the frame and hold securely without risk of scratching the prescription lenses.

Traditional (non-magnetic) clip-ons attach mechanically using small spring clips that grip the frame's bridge or rim. They are more universal but require more care during attachment and sit slightly further from the frame. For everyday use, magnetic clip-on sunglasses are the more practical and aesthetically superior choice.

Quality clip-on sunglasses provide full UV400 protection. Blocking 100% of UVA and UVB rays, equivalent to dedicated prescription sunglasses.

It is important to choose clip-ons from a reputable supplier that explicitly states UV400 compliance. Rather than low-cost unverified products that may carry a tint without adequate UV filtration. All clip-on accessories sold through Direct Sight carry full UV400 protection as standard.

Yes, for most practical uses. Polarised clip-on lenses contain a special filter that eliminates horizontally reflected glare from roads, water, snow, and reflective surfaces. They provide significantly clearer, more comfortable outdoor vision than a standard tint.

They are particularly valuable for driving, where road surface glare can be intense, and for outdoor activities near water.

Yes, clip-on sunglasses have an advantage for driving. Photochromic lenses often don’t darken properly in a car because the windscreen blocks the UV light they need to darken.

Clip-on sunglasses are already tinted when you clip them on and work regardless of whether UV light is passing through the windscreen. Polarised clip-on lenses are the recommended choice for driving. They reduce road surface glare and improve contrast in bright conditions.

Yes. The clip-on sits in front of your varifocal lenses without affecting the reading, intermediate or distance correction in any way. Your full varifocal prescription remains perfectly intact.

A dedicated varifocal prescription sunglass pair requires careful glazing and can be expensive. A clip-on accessory for your existing varifocal frame is significantly more cost-effective.

Magnetic clip-on glasses use magnets that provide a firm, secure hold. They are suitable for everyday outdoor use including commuting, walking, golf, and casual cycling.

For fast or high-impact activities, prescription sports sunglasses are usually a better.

Clip-on sunglasses and photochromic lenses both allow prescription glasses wearers to have sun protection without a separate pair.

Clip-on sunglasses give you manual control. You clip them on when you need sun protection and remove them when you don't. They work in any light conditions including inside a car, and polarised options eliminate glare more effectively.

Photochromic lenses adapt automatically in response to UV light. Convenient for those who move frequently between indoors and outdoors, but limited in cars where windscreens block the UV trigger. Clip-ons are generally more cost-effective; photochromic lenses are more convenient for those who want zero manual intervention.

The most reliable approach is to choose a frame that has been specifically designed with a matching magnetic clip-on. The clip is manufactured to match the frame's exact dimensions and magnet position. This ensures a perfect fit and flush appearance.

If you are looking for a universal clip-on to attach to an existing frame. You will need to match the clip on to the measurements of your frame. A clip that is too large or too small will not provide adequate coverage or sit correctly against the frame. Universal clip-ons usually attach by a clip or are a complete frame that overlays your prescription glasses frame.

No, clip-on sunglasses are one of the most cost-effective routes to sun protection for prescription glasses wearers. Because the clip-on itself is non-prescription, it costs significantly less than a glazed prescription sunglass pair.

At Direct Sight, prescription frames with magnetic clip-on compatibility start from £39.00 including prescription lenses. With the clip-on accessory available as an additional, low-cost item. This can be considerably cheaper than buying two separate prescription pairs, while providing comparable practical functionality.

Properly designed magnetic clip-on sunglasses will not scratch your prescription lenses. The magnetic attachment system holds the clip flush against the frame front. Not against the lens surface. They release cleanly without metal-to-metal contact with the lens.

Hook-on clip-ons carry a small risk of coming into contact with your lenses if you’re not careful. Magnetic clip-ons are a safer option for everyday use.

Direct Sight offers prescription frames with magnetic clip-on compatibility, produced at our UK facility in Amersham, Buckinghamshire.

Our clip-on frames can be fitted with single vision or varifocal lenses, with an optional matching sunglasses clip-on available at checkout.