Everyone knows LensFactory makes specialized lenses for driving (unless you don’t…in that case…here you go). But fewer people are aware that we also make lenses for those intrepid drivers in the sky—pilots.
We understand that pilots have very specific vision needs, and that most lenses don’t meet those needs. Enter our Endless Pilot Progressive Lenses. These cutting-edge lenses are specifically designed to help pilots navigate the skies safely, which is great news for them and everyone else on the plane.
The Benefits of Pilot Lenses
Think of pilot lenses as the more sophisticated cousin of normal progressive lenses. Traditionally, progressive lenses have a zone for objects that are far away at the top of the lens; then they progress (get it?) to a zone for objects that are near. Pilot lenses are, as they say, built different.
Pilot lenses have an extra area for near vision
Pilot lenses are broken into three, not two, zones. At the top, they have a zone for near vision. Slightly below that, there’s a section for distance. Toward the bottom of the lens, there’s another zone for near vision. Having trouble visualizing? Here’s a picture:
Pilots have instruments below and above their line of sight. This extra zone for near vision at the top of the lens helps them clearly see the instruments above them without craning their heads back. Lenses like these are called Camber Steady Plus Progressive.
What’s Camber Steady Plus Progressive?
Let’s break this down a little further. The front of the lens has a special curve (the camber). This curve is slighter at the top of the lens and deeper at the bottom. The lens is shaped the way your eyes naturally shift focus, so they don’t have to work as hard. The “steady” in Camber Steady Plus Progressive means that the lenses keep your vision steady, even when looking from side to side. Other progressive lenses can make you feel like you’re moving underwater, which isn’t steady at all.
Pilot lenses fight peripheral blur
Peripheral blur. It sounds like the name of a band from the early 2000s. But it’s not. It’s the term we use to describe how objects at the edge of your vision can look…blurry. There’s another, even more complicated term for this phenomenon: oblique aberrations. Endless Pilot Progressive Lenses have tech built in to keep objects sharp, even if they’re not in the pilot’s direct line of sight. And you guessed it; there’s another fancy term for this: IOT Digital Ray-Path 2 Technology.
Customizing Pilot Lenses
Our Endless Pilot Progressive Lenses can be customized just like any other LensFactory lens. An anti-reflective coating can be added to cut down on tricky reflections. Pilots can also choose from a variety of tints.
Pilot Lenses FAQs
What are pilot lenses?
Our Endless Pilot Progressive Lenses are progressive lenses specifically designed for pilots and aviation professionals. They have three separate zones—two for near vision and one for distance.
What technology is used in your pilot lenses?
We use IOT Digital Ray-Path 2 Technology. This tech reduces peripheral blur and prevents wearers from experiencing funky feelings of disorientation that can come with less advanced progressive lenses.
Who are pilot lenses ideal for?
It’s in the name, but it’s worth repeating: pilots. But pilot lenses are also appropriate for professions with detailed overhead work. They’re not meant for casual wear.
Are pilot lenses compatible with different frames and prescriptions?
Yep! Endless Pilot Progressive Lenses are compatible with any blank provider and lens index. They can be tailored to suit different frames and prescriptions, too.
How do pilot lenses enhance comfort and performance for pilots?
We have a whole list:
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Fewer unnecessary head movements
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Less visual strain
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Optimal ergonomics
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Effortless transition between different viewing areas
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Greater comfort and crisp, clear vision
Can pilot lenses be used for viewing electronic devices?
They sure can. But keep in mind that they include two zones for near vision. If you don’t need the top segment, more traditional progressive lenses might suit you better.
Are pilot lenses suitable for high prescriptions or specific lens coatings?
You’ve got that right. Endless Pilot Progressive Lenses perform just as well for those with high prescriptions, or covered with your coating of choice.
Why Should I Order Pilot Lenses from LensFactory?
Piloting a plane is a high-stakes job. Don’t leave the quality of your lenses up to chance. We’re meticulous about our lenses. (Some people might say overly meticulous). When you’re 30,000 feet in the air, you want lenses made by people who pay attention to the details. Start your order here.