Understanding your pupillary distance (PD) is key to getting prescription lenses that are perfectly centered for your eyes. Whether you're ordering prescription sunglasses or sport eyewear, an accurate PD measurement ensures optimal clarity and comfort.
What Is PD?
Pupillary distance (PD) is the measurement in millimeters between the centers of your pupils. It tells lens makers exactly where to place the optical center of each lens so your vision is sharp and strain-free.
How to Measure Your PD
You can measure your PD at home with a ruler and a mirror, or ask your eye doctor to include it on your prescription. Here's the quick DIY method:
- Stand 8 inches from a mirror in good lighting.
- Hold a millimeter ruler flat against your brow, just above your eyes.
- Close your right eye and align the ruler's zero mark with the center of your left pupil.
- Open your right eye and close your left — note the millimeter mark at the center of your right pupil.
- That number is your binocular PD. For a monocular PD, measure each eye from the center of the nose bridge separately.
Why PD Matters for Sport Eyewear
Sport frames often have larger or wrap-style lenses, making PD accuracy even more critical. An off-center lens can cause distortion, eye strain, and reduced performance — the last thing you want mid-race or on the slopes.
Shop Our Top Prescription Sunglasses
Ready to put your PD to use? Here are our best-selling sport sunglasses, available with prescription lenses:
