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Smith Prescription

  • How do I order prescription glasses from Smith?

    To order Smith prescription glasses, you will need your current lens prescription including your PD measurement (pupillary distance).

    Then, ordering is easy. Just choose your frame, select your lens options, and select "Add your prescription." Enter your prescription details in the Rx Wizard, then add to cart and checkout.

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  • Tips for understanding and reading your prescription.

    Trying to read a lens prescription can be confusing and you need to get the formula right so we can make the best pair of glasses for you. On your script you will have a sphere (to indicate the strength of the lens you need), a cylinder (which indicates the lens power needed to correct astigmatism), and an  axis (which indicates where to place the lens correction for astigmatism), among a few other details.

     

    Single Vision

    The most common prescription format is in the way of a grid with clearly printed fields for OD, OS, SPH, CYL, etc.; values are usually entered with computer, but may be handwritten by doctor.

    Sphere (SPH) and Cylinder (CYL) always have a (+) or (-) sign.

    On any prescription, PD can be written in different ways: e.g., 62 (Single PD), 33/31 (Dual PD), or 62/60 (Distance PD/Near PD).

     

    Progressive

    For multi-focal glasses, as well as reading and computer glasses, your Rx will include an ADD or NV value. This number always has a (+) sign.

    The type of Rx glasses may be noted on a prescription, such as DV [Distance Vision/nearsightedness] and NV [Near Vision/reading].

     

    What if I have PLANO/PL under SPH?

    If there is "Plano" or "PL" in the SPH section of your prescription, it means no nearsighted or farsighted correction is needed. Enter 0 for your value wizard.

     

    What if I have SPHERE/SPH/S/DS under CYL?

    If there is "DS" or "Sph" or "Spherical" in the Cylinder space it indicates no correction is needed. Enter 0 for your value in the wizard.

     

    What if I have 2 ADD values?

    If you have two ADD values in your prescription (i.e.- ADD +2.00 and ADD +2.25 PAL), the ADD value with PAL (i.e.- 2.25) should be entered into the wizard ADD section.

     

    Check out the following glossary for even more details on what the numbers in your eyeglasses prescription mean:

     

    1. OD (Oculus Dexter), OS (Oculus Sinister)
    OD and OS are key to reading any eyeglasses prescription, regardless of the correction type. Sometimes appearing as O.D. and O.S., they are Latin abbreviations for right eye (OD) and left eye (OS). Some doctors may use OU to reference both eyes. And sometimes you will see RE and LE for right eye and left eye respectively.

     

    2. SPH (Sphere)
    Measured in diopters, the SPH number refers to the lens power necessary for each eye. A minus (-) is used to correct nearsightedness. A plus (+) sign next to the number refers to farsightedness correction.

     

    3. CYL (Cylinder)
    CYL is the lens power (also called diopter) used to correct astigmatism. If you have no astigmatism or very slight one, this column will be blank. As with Sphere, a minus indicates lens power for nearsighted astigmatism, a plus indicates farsighted astigmatism.

     

    4. Ax (Axis)
    Like CYL, Ax only applies to astigmatism prescriptions. The Ax number refers to angle degrees (1 to 180). If your prescription includes Cylinder lens power, it must include Axis as well.

     

    5. ADD
    Only used for multifocal (progressive/bifocal) lenses, ADD refers to the added magnifying power applied to the bottom of the lens in multifocal lenses. PAL is used in some cases by doctors when the addition for progressive lenses is different compared to bifocals.

     

    6. Prism
    Prism is used to correct double vision or vision displacement. The Prism value refers to the number of
    diopters applied to compensate for image alignment issues. We are not able to accommodate eyeglasses prescriptions that need Prism.

     

    7. PD (Pupillary Distance)
    Pupillary distance measures the distance between your pupils. If it's not included in your prescription, you can easily measure it yourself. It's important to measure from the center of one pupil to the center of the other. PD is measured in mm and can be one number like 64 or two numbers like 31/33. The first number in a twonumber PD is the Right or OD. Getting the two-number PD is always the best choice when creating custom made eyewear as it centers each Rx in front of each eye, versus the less accurate method of dividing the single number by two.

    1. Stand 8-12 inches away from a mirror.
    2. Hold a ruler against your brow or cheekbones.
    3. Close your right eye and align the ruler end with the
      center of your left pupil.
    4. Look straight ahead, close your left eye, and open your right eye. Note the measurement to the center of your right pupil.

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  • How to measure your pupillary distance (PD).

    Pupillary distance measures the distance between your pupils. If it's not included in your prescription, you can visit AccuPD a free tool that measures your PD.

    If you prefer, you can also measure your PD yourself following the steps below with a ruler and mirror. It's important to measure from the center of one pupil to the center of the other.
    1. Stand 8-12 inches away from a mirror.
    2. Hold a ruler against your brow or cheekbones.
    3. Close your right eye and align the ruler end with the center of your left pupil.
    4. Look straight ahead, close your left eye, and open your right eye. Note the measurement to the center of your right pupil.

    PD is measured in mm and can be one number like 64 or two numbers like 31/33. The first number in a twonumber PD is the Right or OD. Getting the two-number PD is always the best choice when creating custom made eyewear as it centers each Rx in front of each eye, versus the less accurate method of dividing the single number by two.

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  • How long does it take to receive my Smith Prescription order?

    Once you've placed your prescription order, it can take up to 30 days to receive. Upon completion and quality inspection, we ship and deliver as quickly as possible. You will receive a shipping confirmation email when your order leaves our lab.

    Keep track of your shipment through the “Track My Order” link in your shipping confirmation email or by logging into your Account.

     

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  • Can I email or fax my prescription later?

    No. All Smith prescription orders must include a valid prescription submitted with the order using the Smith Rx online wizard.

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  • What if I need to change or cancel my Smith Rx order?

    Thanks for choosing Smith. As soon as your order is placed, our lab gets to work and starts making your glasses. As a result, there isn't a delay that allows us time to change orders once they’re submitted.

    Please review our Returns policy for more information.

     

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  • What is your Smith Rx warranty policy?

    Smith is committed to quality, and we've built our reputation on long-lasting, high-performing products.

    All Smith Rx prescription products come with a two-year guarantee from defects in workmanship and
    manufacturer materials. This limited warranty is only valid to the original purchaser with a proof of purchase from SmithOptics.com. We will replace defective product that meets the above criteria at no charge.

    Please be advised that the Smith warranty is for authentic Smith Optics products including authentic Smith lenses, frames, and parts without modification of any sort. Any alteration to lenses, frame parts, or nose pads voids all warranties.

    How it Works
    The warranty process normally takes 1-2 weeks. To start a warranty claim, head over to the Smith Warranty Claim Form. To help make the warranty process go smoothly, you'll need the following:

    1. Product name and model
    2. The product SKU or UPC number. These identify the specific model, colorway, and size. They can be found on the original packaging or on the product page at smithoptics.com.
    3. Photos that clearly show the problem with your product. Check out Warranty Claim Photos for examples.
    4. Proof of Purchase is required for all Rx product.

    If your warranty claim is approved, you will be responsible for the cost of shipping replacement product to you.

    Limitation on Damages
    For breach of any written or implied warranty on this product, the consumer is limited to damages of repair of the product or replacement with an identical or equivalent style, at the election of Smith Optics. Smith Optics is NOT liable for any other damages, such as special, incidental, or consequential damages, resulting from the use of this product. Note: Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of special, incidental, or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary from state to state. This warranty extends to residents of the United States only.

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  • What is the Smith Rx product return policy?

    Our Smith Rx return policy is the same as our standard. We want you to be happy with your Smith purchase and accept product returns for full price online orders within 30 days of the purchase date provided products are unused and in the original packaging. Learn more about our Return Process here

    Pro Program orders are not eligible for return at this time.

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  • What do I do if I'm experiencing issues with my Smith prescription glasses?

    Sometimes, it takes a few days to adjust to a new prescription. If you are still having issues after a few days, please fill out the Smith Warranty Form so we can help troubleshoot the problem.

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  • I'm having trouble placing my Smith Rx order online. What should I do?

    If you're having trouble placing your order, reach out via our Customer Support page.

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  • How do I order multiple pairs of glasses with different prescriptions?

    If you need multiple pairs of glasses with different prescriptions — like a pair for you and a pair for your spouse or a pair for reading and a pair for driving — you can simply add another prescription to a second pair of glasses in the same order. However, the glasses will most likely ship separately. You can also order a helmet (or other Smith products) and a pair of prescription glasses in the same order.

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  • Can I purchase Smith prescription glasses for someone as a gift?

    Yes, you can order prescription glasses as a gift, but you will need the recipient's current prescription details including their PD measurement (pupillary distance).

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  • How do I get my prescription?

    We recommend that you get an eye exam at your local vision center for the most current prescription possible. If your current prescription is still valid, contact your doctor for a copy. Be sure to include your PD (pupillary distance) measurement.

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  • Can you fill my glasses prescription?

    We can fill most prescriptions; however, some frames have a limited range due the frame curvature. You will receive an error in our Rx Wizard or your range will not be available if we are unable to fill.

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  • I don't have a copy of my prescription. Can you get it from my doctor?

    Unfortunately, we are not able to request prescriptions directly from a doctor or clinic. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects your health data and requires that you make the request. Once you have a copy of your prescription, you can complete your order. 

    If you have questions about reading your prescription, checkout our Rx tips.

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  • Can I send my current glasses to get its prescription?

    We aren't able to match a prescription from an existing pair of glasses. All Smith prescription orders require you to submit your prescription along with your order.

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  • Can you use my contact lens prescription to make my glasses?

    No, we are not able create eyeglasses using a contact lens prescription. Contact prescriptions are specific to contacts. Most vision plans cover an annual eye exam, so we recommend that you get a fresh eye exam before ordering for the most up-to-date prescription possible.

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  • How long is my prescription valid?

    Most eyewear prescriptions are good for two years, but expiration dates can vary by doctor and prescription needs. Most vision plans cover an annual eye exam, so we recommend that you get a fresh eye exam before ordering for the most up-to-date prescription possible.

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  • What contact lens prescriptions can you fill?

    We do not currently fill contact lens prescriptions.

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  • Can I get glass lenses in my prescription?

    Glass lenses are not currently available for prescription orders.

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  • I have ordered prescription glasses from Smith in the past. Do you still have my prescription on file?

    We're glad you like your Smith prescription glasses enough to get a second pair, but we require that you enter your prescription any time you place a Smith prescription order. We recommend that you get an eye exam before ordering, so your new Smith glasses have the most up-to-date prescription possible.

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  • What type of eyeglass and sunglass lenses do you offer?

    We offer a variety of Rx lens options including clear and sunglass tints. Learn more about Smith prescription lens options here.

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  • What is the difference between single-vision and progressive lenses?

    Single-vision lenses offer one correction value throughout the entire lens, typically for distance or close-up.

    Progressive lenses offer multiple correction values in one lens, so you can have distance and close-up values in one pair of glasses.

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  • What is the difference between progressive lenses and transition lenses?

    Progressive lenses offer multiple correction values in one lens, so you can have distance and close-up values in one pair of glasses.

    Transition lenses are light sensitive or photochromic lenses that change from clear to tinted when exposed to sunlight (UV light).

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  • Does Smith offer light-responsive (photochromic) lenses?

    Yes, Smith offers light-responsive or photochromic lenses that automatically adjust from clear to tinted when exposed to sunlight (UV light).

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  • Does Smith offer bifocal or progressive lenses?

    Smith offers fully custom progressive lenses but do not offer prescription bifocal lenses. We do however offer a few frame models with non-prescription bifocal reader.

     

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  • Does Smith offer lenses with a prism correction?

    We are not able to accommodate prism correction at this time. Your local vision center may be able to order Fresnel or a press-on prism lens that will work with Smith prescription glasses. Be sure to confirm any third-party add-on before ordering your Smith prescription glasses.

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  • Do Smith prescription glasses offer protection from blue light?

    Yes, we offer blue-light filtering lenses. You will see an add-on option when creating your order.

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  • Do Smith lenses protect from UV Sunlight?

    Yes. Our clear lenses and tinted sunglass lenses filter out harmful UV rays.

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  • Does Smith offer ANSI-Certified prescription glasses?

    Smith does not currently offer ANSI-certified prescription eyewear.

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