Contact lenses have come a long way since they were first conceived by Leonardo da Vinci. Now, these optical devices can, like glasses, correct for nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.

Although soft contact lenses are generally preferred, hard contacts can sometimes be a better solution for vision correction. In fact, research has shown that children who wear hard contact lenses, specifically Ortho K lenses, have a higher likelihood of slowing the progression of nearsightedness compared with those who wear soft contact lenses. While hard contacts are made of gas-permeable plastic that makes them feel stiff, soft contacts are composed of either a hydrogel material or a silicone hydrogel combination, which makes them more flexible and breathable.

There are certainly pros and cons to both. Hard contacts, for instance, are more durable, cost effective and last longer. They are also known to promote sharper vision and can be great for people who suffer from dry eyes. In some cases, they can work better than glasses for people with ocular diseases such as keratoconus. That said, they require a more rigorous cleaning routine, as they are more prone to collecting dust and debris. Soft contact lenses, on the other hand, are easier to mold to the eye, and are often considered more comfortable and breathable. There is less maintenance involved with daily disposable soft lenses, and they are easier for first-time wearers to adjust to. Still, they must be replaced frequently, and they are less durable than harder lenses.

Choosing hard versus soft contact lenses will depend heavily on an individual’s lifestyle and specific vision needs. It’s best to book a contact lens fitting and consult with your eye doctor about which type of contact lens is right for you.