Progressive lens problems

I have had bifocals for a couple of years and now need trifocals. I
decided to try the progressives because I like the idea of having a
continuous range of correction. I was told that the useful area would
be like an hour glass but I find it is mostly like a tree or a "T"
shape. The far and even the narrow intermediate seem to work OK, but
the reading part is so narrow and so far down that it is very
difficult to read. The shop I deal with has been very cooperative and
has tried 3 different types. The first two were VIP and Ovation and I
couldn't see much difference between them. The reading part was so
narrow that at normal reading distance only about a two inch width of
print was in focus. The distant was fine and the intermediate,
although very narrow, was usable. The last time he tried Percepta.
The reading part seems to be a little wider, but the wider part is
very low in the lens, right above the rim, and it is still pretty hard
to use especially when reading a newspaper.
Is this the best that I can expect with progressive lenses or is there
some other possiblity that would work better. I would also prefer
that there not be a very high peripheral distortion since I am a pilot
and would like to use them flying although I do have other glasses I
can use for this.
My presription is
sph cyl axis
R 1.25 +0.50 151
L 1.00
Add
R +2.00
L +2.00
I appreciate any information on this.

BJ

 

None of those lens designs you mentioned are premium designs. In addition
you probably want one with a shorter corridor which are more typical with
the premium designs.

Instead of Sola VIP or Sola Percepta, that would be the Sola Solamax.

Instead of Esillor Ovation, that would be Varilux Pananmic (made by
Essilor).

There are similar models from other manufacturers.

Make sure you stay away from polycarbonate for best optics, especially with
regard to peripheral distortion. If you must have safety lens material, try
the Hoya ECP in Phoenix (trivex material).

Rodenstock Multiressive2 is well-known for less peripheral distortion.

In addition to shopping for the best product to suit your needs, you need to
shop for an optician who knows what they are talking about.