5 Mistakes I Made Buying Reading Sunglasses (So You Don't Have To)

I understand the urge to save money, but opting for cheap reading sunglasses is a serious error. I learned the hard way that saving a few dollars upfront often means replacing them within months. My first attempt at buying quality reading sunglasses was a disaster.

I was drawn in by flashy ads and rock-bottom prices. Don't repeat my mistake. Learn from my experience so you can find a durable, comfortable pair right from the start.

Here are the main issues I encountered:

• The plastic frame was fragile and broke too easily.
• The lenses didn't darken sufficiently outdoors.
• The fit was too tight, causing frequent headaches.

Mistake #1: Choosing the Cheapest Option

My first major blunder was clicking on the $8 pair. I thought, "How different could they be?" The answer was: very. Extremely cheap glasses cut corners in every way.

The hinges were made of weak metal that bent almost immediately. The lenses scratched if I so much as breathed on them. After just two weeks, one of the arms snapped off completely.

Low-Rating Scenario: "I bought a $10 pair. The screws kept coming loose, and the frame broke when I accidentally sat on them. A complete waste of money."

Verdict: Avoid reading glasses priced under $20. You need a baseline of quality for the frame and hinges to endure. Investing a bit more in robust materials pays off.

Mistake #2: Overlooking Material Quality

I assumed all plastic frames were created equal. They're not. If the plastic feels overly stiff, it's likely to crack rather than flex. This is critical for reading sunglasses, which you might frequently toss into a bag.

I overlooked the importance of materials like TR90. TR90 is a special thermoplastic that's both lightweight and flexible. My cheap pair was made of hard, brittle plastic that pinched my nose and felt heavy after a short time.

Low-Rating Scenario: "The cheap plastic frame pinched my nose immediately. It developed a crack near the temple after just two weeks of gentle use. Poor quality."

Verdict: Seek out materials like TR90. If the description simply says "plastic," assume it's the low-quality, rigid type prone to snapping.

Mistake #3: Not Verifying Key Features Through Reviews

I trusted the product description at face value. It claimed the lenses were "photochromic," meaning they should darken in sunlight. This is the primary reason to buy reading sunglasses.

When I received them and wore them outside on a bright day, they barely changed color. They remained nearly clear, leaving me squinting while trying to read in the park.

Low-Rating Scenario: "The ad promised 'photochromic' lenses, but they hardly darkened outside. I ended up shielding my eyes with my hand. They failed at their only job."

Action Step: Before purchasing, read reviews that specifically mention the lenses changing color. Look for customer photos showing the glasses outdoors.

Verdict: Always confirm that the main advertised feature actually works for other buyers. Never rely solely on the seller's claims.

Mistake #4: Being Misled by Photochromic Advertising

Even if the lenses function, I had unrealistic expectations about how dark they would become. The ads often show them turning instantly dark black, like regular sunglasses.

Photochromic reading glasses are different. They're designed to tint slightly to reduce glare while reading, not to replace full, dark sunglasses for activities like driving or intense sun exposure. My mistake was expecting a deep tint.

What I Learned: They do change color, but typically remain lighter than traditional sunglasses. If you need serious sun protection, opt for dedicated tinted readers. Don't purchase photochromic readers expecting them to function as dark sunglasses.

Verdict: For maximum shade, buy separate sunglasses. Photochromic readers offer convenience and light sun blocking, not extreme darkness.

Mistake #5: Neglecting Proper Measurements

I bought the glasses based solely on their appearance. I didn't measure my face or check the frame dimensions. This was a huge error. Ill-fitting glasses are both painful and irritating.

My cheap frames were too narrow, squeezing my temples tightly. I developed a terrible headache every time I wore them for more than an hour. If frames are too wide, they constantly slide down your nose, which is equally frustrating.

Action Step: Check the numbers printed on the inside arm of your current, comfortable glasses. These indicate: Lens Width - Bridge Width - Temple Length (e.g., 52-18-140).

Low-Rating Scenario: "These glasses were far too tight behind my ears. I got a headache after just 30 minutes of screen time. I should have measured my old pair first."

Verdict: Get the temple width right. Too tight causes pain; too loose causes slipping. Measure twice, buy once.

What I Should Have Done: Prioritizing Knowledge and Quality

After those initial failures, I realized I needed to stop treating glasses as disposable items. I began seeking brands that emphasized customer service and solid frame construction. That's when everything changed.

I visited a retailer where the staff were genuinely knowledgeable. A team member named Sarah was particularly helpful, showing me various options based on fit rather than just price. There was no pressure to buy, which I appreciated.

I ultimately chose a higher-end pair (similar to the delicate, subtle P47423 style). They were slightly more expensive, but the difference was night and day. The frame was strong, lightweight, and comfortable. I felt respected in my decision-making process. They even offered quick service—I had the finished pair in just three days.

Dealing with the Official Mozaer website simplified everything because they supported their products with expertise and service. They were eager to assist once I made my choice but respected my need to browse independently.

This experience taught me that quality brands provide three key advantages:

• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable assistance with fit and materials.
• Durability: A subtle yet sturdy frame built to last years, not weeks.
• Efficiency: Prompt service, even during busy periods.

Lessons Learned

Buying quality reading sunglasses doesn't have to be complicated if you follow these straightforward steps. Avoid repeating my errors of chasing the lowest price or skipping essential measurements.

Here is my quick checklist before you click 'Buy':

1. Evaluate the Price: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Assess the Material: Is it TR90 or just generic "plastic"?
3. Confirm the Fit: Match the temple width to your current glasses.
4. Verify the Lenses: Do reviews confirm the photochromic feature works as advertised?

Always trust your instincts when purchasing glasses. If a deal looks too good to be true, it likely is. Take a moment to visit the brand's homepage to confirm quality before making your purchase.