Turn Any Goggles Into Prescription Goggles
Prescription Goggle Inserts:
- Fits: ATV, motocross, motorcycle, ski, snow board and paint ball goggles as well as some safety and chemical splash models
- Cost: $100 – $150 for single vision (frame + lenses)
- Sizes: 4 general sizes, small, medium, medium/large, large
- Compatible: adult and children goggles
Prescription inserts are a game changer – for $100 – $300 you can change virtually any pair of goggles that you already own into prescription goggles.
Plus, the best part of inserts is that you can easily change them between goggles, so if you own several pairs of goggles or buy a new pair down the road it’s a quick easy switch out.
Keep in mind that if you want your insert to work in all your different goggles, they would need to be of a similar size otherwise you’ll need to spring for another pair.
They’re generally “universal” but only within the different size classes of small, medium, medium/large and large.
Universal goggle inserts are designed with top and bottom tension arms to secure the lenses in place which makes them ideal for ATV, off-roading and motorcycle riding.
Just like with glasses, the inserts come with upgrades for weight, materials, clarity, scratch protection and anti-fogging. And also, just like with regular glasses, each upgrades drives up the price.
Choose Your Prescription
You can get prescription goggle inserts made with the same exact prescription as your glasses.
Single Vision – This insert is designed for either distance or reading – meaning you are either farsighted or nearsighted
Single Vision Digital – This is the single vision style above, but with maximum clarity
Progressive Digital – These inserts are the “new improved” version of bifocals, it allows for three separate vision distances without the unattractive line that old school bifocals had. They allow you to see distance, medium distance and reading. Expect to pay an additional $75+ for progressives vs. single vision.
For most ATV riders, single vision distance is the best choice.
If you’re not comfortable working with an online glasses manufacturer, it’s possible to buy the goggle frame without the lenses and then you can take it to your local optometrist to get the lenses made and inserted.
The frames alone can be picked up for less than $40. Shop around because prices vary wildly, I found some styles for under $15.
Pros and Cons of Prescription Goggle Inserts
Pros
- Interchangeable between many different brands
- Easy to install
- Easy to change between goggles
- Less expensive than prescription goggles or helmet visors
- More comfortable than glasses
- Secure and safe
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Adds a little bit of weight
- May slightly decrease peripheral vision
Determining The Insert Size You Need
To find the type of insert you need for your goggles, you will need to take a quick measurement at the center of the lens. Measure from the inside and measure the lens only – do not include any foam or rubber in your calculations.
- 1 3/8” and smaller – Type 3 (small/children’s size)
- 1 3/8” – 1 3/4” – Type 1 and Type 4
- 1 3/4” and larger – Type 2 and Type 4
These are the main general types of designs, but there are other variations as well. Some designs are made by manufacturers specifically for their brand, while others are unbranded generic styles. With the exception of children’s goggles, most of these styles will fit the average adult-size ATV goggles.
Adjusting To The Inserts
When you first start wearing the inserts, your depth perception may be a bit off. This is because when you wear glasses, the lenses are close to your eyes, but with the inserts they’re further away.
It’s similar to adjusting to bifocals, your eyes will quickly get used to the difference and eventually you won’t even notice it.
If you’re concerned about the depth perception issue, just wear them around the house for a couple hours and you’ll be good to go.
Another Option – Googles That Fit Over Glasses
Amazon has a few goggle brands and styles that are designed to fit over glasses. Here are a few options: