The potential of vertical-aligned spatial light modulators for use in adaptive-optics visual simulators is demonstrated. We performed visual acuity and contrast sensitivity tests in different subjects, with their eye’s optics corrected by the custom adaptive-optics system and with induced aberrations similar to those in severe keratoconus. We tested the system in a see-through configuration, achieving a total corrected field of view of ∼13 deg. The applicability of these modulation devices for a wearable visual adaptive optics system is discussed.