If you’ve heard horror stories about varifocal glasses, you’re not alone.
Every week, someone walks into Jacksons Styling Opticians in Nantwich and says something like:
“My friend tried varifocals and couldn’t walk straight.”
“I’ve heard they’re blurry at the edges.”
“Aren’t they impossible to get used to?”
Maybe you’ve thought the same. Maybe you’re even nervous about trying them yourself.
Right now, you might be juggling multiple pairs of glasses – one for driving, one for reading, maybe another for the computer. Or perhaps you’ve resorted to cheap reading glasses that work for five minutes but leave you straining and frustrated. You want something better. Something simple. One pair of glasses that lets you get on with your life without compromise.
That’s exactly what varifocals are designed to do — but only when they’re done properly.
Because here’s the truth most people never hear:
Varifocals don’t fail people — badly made varifocals fail people.
The Real Problem Isn’t Varifocals — It’s How They’re Fitted
Many people who “can’t get on” with varifocals were simply given:
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The wrong lens design for their lifestyle
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Poor measurements taken in a rush
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Lenses fitted into a frame that didn’t suit varifocals
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Outdated optical technology
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A one-size-fits-all approach from a busy high street chain
No wonder so many people are hesitant. They’re not afraid of varifocals — they’re afraid of getting it wrong.
So What Actually Are Varifocal Lenses?
Varifocals (also called progressive lenses) are designed to give you clear vision at every distance:
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Far away – driving, TV, recognising faces
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Arm’s length – computer, cooking, music, playing cards
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Close-up – reading, sewing, phone use
They allow you to do all of this with one pair of glasses and no visible “bifocal line”.
“But I’ve Heard They’re Distorted or Hard to Use”
That used to be true — back when varifocals were made using simple, old-fashioned designs. But lens technology has moved on. Modern premium lenses use advanced digital design and laser surfacing to give a much wider field of clear vision, reduced distortion and a more natural feel.
When they’re fitted correctly, varifocals feel effortless — like upgrading from standard TV to ultra HD.
Real People. Real Results.
At Jacksons, we often meet people who’ve been told they “aren’t suitable” for varifocals. Yet they succeed when their lenses are designed around their life.
Sarah, 49
A business consultant who spends long days between meetings, driving, and laptop work. She had tried varifocals before and hated them. We discovered she’d been put into a standard design that didn’t suit long screen work. After switching her to a personalised varifocal with extended intermediate vision, she adapted in two days.
David, 61
A keen golfer and classic car enthusiast who had three different pairs of glasses and was still struggling. He thought varifocals would distort depth perception. They don’t – when measured correctly. He now wears them full time and says, “I just wish I’d done this sooner.”
Karen, 55
An accountant who thought she was clumsy because she felt “off balance” in her last pair. The truth? Her previous glasses had uneven fitting heights. One lens was 2mm higher than the other. We corrected the fitting and the problem disappeared instantly.
Why the Jacksons Approach Works
Varifocals only work when they are designed for the person wearing them. At Jacksons we take a precision approach:
We start with you
Before recommending anything, we learn how you actually use your eyes. Not just your prescription, but your lifestyle. Do you drive at night? Work on multiple screens? Read music? Do close craft work? Spend hours on a tablet? Your lenses must be designed around this — otherwise they’re guesswork.
We measure differently
We don’t use guess-and-stick fitting. We use precision digital measurements so your lenses align exactly with how your eyes move naturally. Find out more about our digital measuring device, Visioffice, here.
We choose lenses that match your world
Your hobbies, your work, your vision habits, your posture, even how your frame sits on your nose — all of this changes the optics. That’s why we only use premium bespoke lens designs from trusted manufacturers and tailor them to you.
Frame first. Then lenses.
We’re styling opticians. Your frame isn’t chosen for trend — it’s chosen for function and aesthetics. Some frames physically don’t work with varifocals. We won’t let you pick one that struggles.
So, Will You Get Used to Them?
Yes — as long as they’re made properly.
Most people adapt in 2–7 days. Some instantly. A small number may need a couple of weeks. That’s normal. Like new shoes, they bed in with use.
Wearing them full-time helps your brain build new visual habits quickly. And we coach you through that. You’re never left wondering, “Is this right?”
Are They Comfortable for Driving?
Yes. In fact, modern varifocals are ideal for driving — sharp dashboard vision, clear distance focus, smooth transitions. Add a quality anti-glare coating and your night driving improves too.
What If I’ve Already Tried Varifocals and Failed?
Then you’re exactly who we help most often. People who have tried elsewhere and struggled almost always succeed when:
✔ The prescription is checked accurately
✔ The lifestyle is properly understood
✔ The lenses are the right design
✔ The measurements are 100% precise
✔ The frame is correctly chosen
Failure with varifocals isn’t a verdict. It’s a sign you didn’t get real expertise.
Your Guarantee of Confidence
We don’t believe in guesswork or eyewear stress — which is why we offer:
✅ Premium optical problem solving
✅ A bespoke styling and lens consultation
✅ Precision digital measurement
✅ Aftercare and adjustments over time
When your lenses are made around how you live — they simply work.
A better experience begins with one conversation
“Clarity isn’t a luxury. It’s a way of living.” – Jacksons Styling Opticians
FAQs – Quick Answers
Will varifocals make me dizzy?
Not if they’re made correctly. “Swimming” vision comes from poor measurements and old lens designs.
Are all varifocals the same?
No. There are hundreds of designs and huge differences in quality. Cheap lenses = compromise.
Do I still need separate reading glasses?
Not if your lenses are chosen around your daily tasks. We match varifocals to your needs.
What if I drive a lot or work on screens?
We use lenses designed specifically for those tasks — so yes, varifocals can be tailored for both.
I have a strong prescription – will they be thick?
No. We can make lenses thinner and lighter with advanced lens materials.
Can I try them risk-free?
Yes. If something isn’t right, we’ll adjust it until it is.
Ready to stop juggling glasses?
Let’s design varifocals that actually work — lenses that feel natural, clear and effortless.
Book your personal lens consultation at Jacksons Styling Opticians.
