What type of contact lens is specifically designed for correcting astigmatism?

Toric lenses are specifically designed to correct astigmatism due to their unique shape. Unlike spherical lenses, which have a uniform curvature, toric lenses feature different curvatures in various meridians of the lens. This is necessary because astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is not perfectly spherical, leading to blurred or distorted vision at certain angles.

The design of toric lenses allows them to align with the irregular shape of the eye, providing clear vision. They can be manufactured using both soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) materials.

While spherical lenses are used for standard vision correction, and multifocal lenses assist individuals with presbyopia by allowing for multiple focal points, they do not have the specific geometric features necessary to correct astigmatism. Rigid gas permeable lenses can correct astigmatism as well, but they must be specifically designed as toric lenses to be effective for that purpose. Thus, toric lenses are the appropriate choice for astigmatism correction, making this the correct answer.