Ever stared at the sun for even a brief moment? It’s blinding, isn’t it? That’s why a solar eclipse is a mix of wonder and danger.
The problem? Looking at it directly can hurt your eyes.
Your safeguard: Solar eclipse glasses!
However, they tend to sell out quickly, turning safe viewing into a race against the clock.
So, whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or a causal sky gazer, here’s why you should buy early:
Demand Soars & So Do Prices
Recall August 21, 2017’s total eclipse. It was when demand for glasses soared and prices for a 10-pack skyrocketed from $8 in July to $159 in August.
So, with two eclipses approaching on October 14, 2023, and April 8, 2024, we can expect a similar rush.
Why? Because millions of Americans are excited, hotels are booking up, and everyone is on the hunt for those specialized filter glasses.
What could be the impact? A potential shortage of glasses on the market!
For those who delay, this might mean longer delivery times and paying significantly more, perhaps 20 times more, as seen in the past.
Nobody would want that, especially for sky events as rare and special as these, occurring only two or five times a year.
Risk of scams increases
Sadly, the growing demand for solar eclipse glasses gives rise to a black market flooded with fake or counterfeit products.
This makes figuring out which ones are genuine and safe even trickier.
Getting your glasses early can help you avoid scams. How?
When you shop ahead, you’ve got the time to look into the sellers and confirm the glasses are up to safety standards, ensuring a worry-free and enjoyable eclipse viewing.
Limited Options with Reliable Vendors
During past eclipses, even trusted manufacturers found it challenging to keep up with the overwhelming demand, no matter how much they produced.
As we approach eclipses in 2023 and 2024, a similar situation could arise.
Waiting too long to buy could mean fewer choices, higher prices, and not finding the best quality, as the good stuff might be already gone.
By choosing to buy early, you benefit from a wider selection and a smart choice. Plus, you can avoid rushed purchases.
Cool Deals & Discounts
Best of all, starting early means you can find awesome deals and early-bird discounts on eclipse glasses.
For instance, when you grab a pack of 5 for $12.99 instead of $15.99, you save money.
Also, this shields you from last-minute price hikes that can be heavy on your wallet.
Availability Check: Are There Any Solar Eclipse Glasses Still on Sale?
As the eclipse day draws near, finding glasses on sale can become a bit of a treasure hunt.
The high demand often leads to stocks running out rapidly, much like sought-after concert tickets flying off the shelves!
But here’s the good news: you can still secure a safe pair from:
- Big-box retail stores: These retail giants, offering a vast array of products from electronics to clothing, may have some eclipse glasses left in stock.
- Optical shops: Don’t forget to check out your local optical shops, where protective eyewear is often available.
- Independent E-commerce stores: Explore independent online stores that sell authentic solar glasses. These niche stores might be your best bet for finding this kind of eyewear.
Remember, whenever you get your glasses from, ensure they are ISO 12312-2 compliant for safe viewing.