A perfect pair of sunglasses isn’t just about style; it’s about protecting your eyes and ensuring all-day comfort. Ill-fitting sunglasses can slip, pinch, or fail to properly shield your eyes, leaving you frustrated and unprotected.
Knowing how sunglasses should fit not only saves you from discomfort but also makes sure that your sunglasses provide the protection your eyes deserve. Start with finding the right frame size, paying attention to the nose pads, the arms, lens coverage, and stability. Comfort is also important, as well as UV protection and style.
Total Vision Lake Elsinore has put together a complete guide to help you find sunglasses that feel great, look great, and work effectively.
Start With the Right Frame Size
Your sunglasses should feel secure without being tight. The frame width should match your face width to avoid gaps or awkward overhangs. Too small, and the arms will press against your temples; too large, and the frames will slip and slide.
When trying on sunglasses, check the bridge of your nose, too. A proper fit means the frames rest comfortably on your nose without pinching or leaving red marks. If you notice pressure points, you might need a wider bridge or adjustable nose pads.
Quick Tip:
Sunglasses often have size details printed on the inside of the arms. If you already own glasses or sunglasses that fit well, check those dimensions as a starting point.
Pay Attention to the Nose Pads
Nose pads play a big role in how your sunglasses feel—and how secure they are. These tiny pieces can make or break your experience.
Adjustable nose pads, often found on metal frames, offer versatility. You can gently tweak them to fit comfortably on the bridge of your nose. Meanwhile, built-in plastic or acetate pads, common in thicker frames, should naturally mold to your nose. If they don’t sit right, the sunglasses may not be the right shape for you.
The Arms Should Hug Without Squeezing
The arms of your sunglasses should lightly grip the sides of your head. A snug but gentle fit gives you stability without causing pressure headaches.
The length of the arms matters, too. They should extend over your ears comfortably, with the curve resting lightly on the back of your ears. Arms that are too short can tug, while overly long arms may cause the frames to shift.
Pro Tip:
If your sunglasses aren’t fitting perfectly, adjustments can often be made. Many eye care providers or sunglasses retailers offer simple tweaks to improve fit.
Check for Lens Coverage
Sunglasses aren’t just an accessory; they’re a tool for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays and glare. A great fit means the lenses cover your eyes completely without gaps along the sides, top, or bottom.
Gaps can allow stray light to sneak through, reducing effectiveness and increasing glare. Wrap-style frames or larger lens shapes often provide better coverage, but the key is finding a shape that works for your face.
Test the Stability
Movement happens—you walk, you nod, or you glance down to check your phone. A good pair of sunglasses shouldn’t budge or slide out of place when you do. Test their stability by lightly shaking your head or looking up and down.
If your sunglasses shift, they might need adjustment, tighter nose pads, or even a different shape that fits your face better.
Comfort Is Key
No matter how great those frames look, if they’re uncomfortable, they’re not the right choice. Everyone’s face is different, and a pair that feels fantastic on one person might feel terrible on another.
When trying on sunglasses, wear them for a few minutes to see how they feel over time. That pinch on your nose or tightness behind your ears might not be obvious right away but can quickly become unbearable after wearing them for a full day.
Consider Your Face Shape
While comfort always comes first, finding sunglasses that suit your face shape helps balance aesthetics with practicality. Here’s a quick guide to matching styles with face shapes:
- Round faces look great with angular frames like square or rectangular lenses.
- Square faces benefit from softer, rounder designs to balance strong jawlines.
- Oval faces can pull off just about any style—lucky you!
- Heart-shaped faces shine with frames slightly wider at the top, like cat-eye or aviator styles.
Remember, these are just guidelines; the “best” sunglasses are the ones that make you feel confident and comfortable.
Don’t Forget UV Protection
No matter how perfectly your sunglasses fit, their main job is to protect your eyes. Always check for lenses that block 100% UVA and UVB rays. Protecting your eyes is just as important as finding a comfortable fit.
Some sunglasses are designed for specific purposes, like driving or outdoor sports. Polarized lenses can reduce glare, while tinted lenses may enhance contrast. Consider your lifestyle and what you need from your lenses.
Make Adjustments When Needed
Even the best sunglasses might need small adjustments after purchase. If you notice they’re slipping or digging in, don’t hesitate to get them fitted. Many opticians and eye care providers are happy to help adjust frames for free or a small fee.
Find Your Perfect Fit & See the Difference
Finding sunglasses that fit well is an investment in both your style and your eye health. The perfect pair feels secure without squeezing, provides complete eye coverage, and sits comfortably for hours of wear.
If you’re unsure about fit or need adjustments, Total Vision Lake Elsinore is here to help. We’re passionate about helping you protect your eyes while ensuring you feel great wearing your new frames. The right pair of sunglasses can truly help you feel better, look better, and see better—all day long. Get in touch with us today with your questions or concerns!
