How Strong of a Prescription Can SVED Optical Custom Prescription Inserts Handle?

One of the most common questions we receive is:

"Is my prescription too strong for prescription inserts?"

In most cases, the answer is no.

At SVED Optical, we've successfully manufactured prescription inserts for customers with prescriptions as strong as -14.00 sphere and -6.00 cylinder. However, there isn't a single prescription limit that applies to everyone.

The strength of a prescription insert depends on the complete prescription—not just one number.

What Determines Whether a Prescription Will Work?

When evaluating a prescription, our certified opticians look at several factors, including:

• Sphere (SPH)

• Cylinder (CYL)

• Axis

• Prism requirements

• Pupillary Distance (PD)

• Frame and insert design

For example, two customers may both have a -10.00 prescription, but one may be an excellent candidate for prescription inserts while the other may require a different solution depending on their astigmatism correction and frame choice.

That's why we always recommend looking at the entire prescription rather than focusing on the sphere value alone.

High Prescriptions and Prescription Inserts

Many people with strong prescriptions assume they cannot wear sport sunglasses or safety eyewear with their prescription.

Fortunately, prescription inserts are often an excellent solution for higher prescriptions.

Because the prescription lens sits closer to the eye than a direct-glazed sport lens, inserts can often provide better optics while allowing you to use the sport frames you already love.

Prescription inserts are commonly used for:

• Cycling sunglasses

• Baseball sunglasses

• Shooting glasses

• Safety glasses

• Wraparound sport sunglasses

• Fishing sunglasses

• Heat Wave Visual sunglasses

• Pit Viper sunglasses

• Oakley sunglasses

Can Prescription Inserts Handle Astigmatism?

Yes.

We regularly make prescription inserts for customers with astigmatism, including cylinder powers as strong as -6.00 in some cases.

Astigmatism prescriptions can be more complex than standard prescriptions because cylinder power and axis must work together. This is one reason why a prescription review is often helpful before ordering.

Can Prescription Inserts Be Made With Progressive Lenses?

Yes.

Many of our prescription inserts can be made with:

• Single vision lenses

• Progressive lenses

• Lined bifocals

The best option depends on your prescription, frame style, and intended use.

What Is the Strongest Prescription You've Made?

We've successfully manufactured prescription inserts with:

• Sphere powers as strong as -17.00

• Cylinder powers as strong as -6.00

These examples should not be considered absolute limits. Every prescription is unique, and compatibility depends on the combination of sphere, cylinder, axis, prism requirements, and frame selection.

In some cases, prescriptions stronger than these examples may still be possible.

When Should You Contact Us?

We recommend reaching out before ordering if you have:

• A sphere power stronger than ±9.00

• Significant astigmatism

• Prism correction

• Questions about frame compatibility

Unlike many online eyewear companies that rely on automated prescription limits, every high-prescription order at SVED Optical is reviewed by certified opticians who evaluate the complete prescription before production.

Still Not Sure?

If you're wondering whether your prescription will work in one of our inserts, send us a copy of your prescription.

Our certified opticians will review the sphere, cylinder, axis, prism requirements, and frame selection to help determine the best solution for your needs.

In many cases, we can accommodate prescriptions that customers were previously told would not work in sport eyewear.