Worn both as accessories and eye protectors, sunglasses are popular almost everywhere in the world. Historians believe they got their starts in Rome, where famed, eccentric emperor Nero liked to watch gladiator fights through polished gems in order to enjoy the color and image distortion. Today, sunglasses are immensely popular. In fact, Elton John is rumored to have more than 1,000 different pairs of shades.

Ray-Ban and Oakley are the two best-selling brands. Indeed, the Ray-Ban Wayfarer and the Oakley Caveat sell thousands of pairs every year. Unfortunately, many happy purchasers have been devastated by accidentally broken lenses. Though many customers simply throw away their broken sunglasses, that isn’t the only option. Oakley replacement lenses are available from the company itself, and other less expensive aftermarket lenses can be purchased to fit Oakley frames. In fact, Oakley lenses replacement is one of the simpler fixes for a pair of busted shades. Here, we’ll look at how to replace Oakley lenses from the beginning of the process to the end.

How to Replace Oakley Lenses

1. The process starts when you choose the right replacement lenses. Determine which model number and lens size you should be shopping for. It’s listed on the inside of one of the arms.
2. Decide on a finish. Though one option is to simply order the same lens color and type that came originally, there are other options that could provide better protection for your eyes. Polarized lenses will protect the eyes from UV rays, and mirrored lenses can protect against reflections from snow, sand, and water.
3. Order the lenses. Your options are either to ask the lens provider to install the lenses for you or to install them yourself. If you choose to install them yourself, move on to the next step.
4. Install your lenses. For metal frames, simply loosen the screw keeping the frames together, remove the old lenses, insert the new ones, and re-tighten the screw. For plastic frames, soak the glasses in hot water before popping out the old lenses and popping in the new ones.

If you’re really unsure how to replace Oakley lenses, there is no shame in asking the lens provider to install them for you. Either way, enjoy the fact that you didn’t have to toss your favorite shades!