Have you ever found yourself looking for glasses, overwhelmed by the selection of frames, and not sure which one to choose? Or maybe you’ve picked out a pair that you like, but then, when you put them on, they just don’t seem to fit your face quite right.
The truth is, finding the perfect pair of eyeglasses goes beyond just choosing a style that you like; it’s also important to consider how well your new glasses fit your face.
Properly fitting eyeglasses don’t just improve your vision; they can also enhance your appearance and comfort. Ill-fitting glasses can cause headaches, discomfort behind the ears or on the nose, and even blurred vision. Here are some factors to consider when ensuring your eyeglasses fit correctly:
- Frame size
- Temple length
- Bridge fit
- Lens height and width
- Nose pad comfort
- Frame weight
- Material durability
- Face shape compatibility
Frame Size
The size of your frames should match the width of your face. If your frames are too wide, they may constantly slip down your nose, causing irritation and discomfort. On the other hand, if a frame is too narrow, it may pinch your temples or cause headaches.
When trying on glasses, make sure that the frame sits comfortably on your face without pressing against your temples or cheeks. The arms of the frame should also sit straight and snugly against your head without any gaps.
Temple Length
The temple length refers to the arms of the frame that rest behind your ears. These should be long enough to extend past your ear without digging in or leaving marks. Although temples are adjustable, if the length is too short, the glasses may slide down your nose, and the prescription will no longer be well aligned for your best vision.
When selecting glasses, ensure that the temples are long enough to provide a secure, comfortable fit without creating pressure behind your ears. If the frames feel too tight or too loose, let our eye care team adjust the temple length to ensure a perfect fit.
Bridge Fit
Bridge fit refers to how frames rest on the bridge of your nose. It’s important to choose frames that fit comfortably and evenly across your nose without digging in or sliding down. Properly fitting frames should be stable.
If your nose has a low bridge, choose frames with a low bridge fit for better comfort and stability. If you have a high bridge, look for frames with a high bridge fit to prevent pressure or discomfort. The bridge width and angle should also match your nose’s shape and position in relation to your eyes for the best fit.
Lens Height & Width
The right lens size is key to finding glasses that look and feel great. Your eyes should sit near the upper third of the lens, but no lower than the center, ensuring optimal vision and balance. The top of the frame should rest just below your eyebrows, while the bottom should not touch your cheeks. Since your prescription and lens type can affect how the final glasses look and function, consulting an eye care professional is important. The wrong frame may cut off important sections of the lens, which can impact comfort and clarity, especially for progressive or office lenses.
Nose Pad Comfort
Nose pads can greatly impact the comfort and fit of your glasses. They should distribute the weight of the frames evenly across your nose without leaving any marks or causing discomfort.
If you find that your nose pads are too tight or too loose, let our eye care team know and we can align them to the angle of your nose. An advantage to choosing frames with nose pads is the flexibility to adjust them perfectly to your nose. Some frames can also be customized with different types of nose pads, such as silicone or glass, to provide added comfort and improved fit.
Some plastic frames come with the option to add nose pads – our eye care team can offer guidance about the available options for each frame.
Material Durability
The material of your glasses can also contribute to the comfort of your eyewear. Metal frames, especially titanium, are often lighter weight than plastic frames and come with nose pads for the most adjustability. They offer a minimal, barely-there feel, and some metals are also hypoallergenic.
Plastic frames are often bolder and offer a wide array of colours and patterns while often being sturdier than many metal frames. When looking for durability and a static fit, plastic frames can be the ideal solution for children and those looking for consistency of adjustment.
Both plastic and metal frames can work for most individuals. However, the fit, features, and prescription will dictate which will be the most ideal. Higher prescriptions, for example, are best hidden by thicker plastic frames, but depending on frame fit, a metal frame may offer better visual comfort.
Face Shape Compatibility
While not directly related to fit and comfort, the shape of your face can also play a role in finding the perfect pair of glasses. Certain frame styles may complement certain face shapes better than others.
For example, round faces tend to look better with angular frames, while square faces can benefit from round or oval frames. If you’re unsure which frame style would best suit your face shape, ask for recommendations from an eye care professional or try on a variety of options to see what looks and feels comfortable for you.
Consultation with an Eye Care Team
If you’re having trouble finding the right fit for your glasses, our eye care team is there to help; they are trained professionals who specialize in finding the best fit for your vision.
An eye care professional can also assist in adjusting frames for a more comfortable fit or in recommending alternative frame styles that may better suit your face shape and features. Don’t be afraid to ask for their expertise and guidance in finding you the perfect glasses.
Get Glasses That Fit!
Finding the right fit is crucial when it comes to selecting eyeglasses. A good fit not only affects comfort but also impacts how well you’re able to see with your glasses on. Consider all aspects of frame fit, such as eye size, temple length, bridge size, and lens height/width. If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to seek help from an eye care professional. At Old South Optometry, we offer personalized consultations and frame adjustments to ensure that you find the perfect fit for your eyeglasses. Our goal is to help you see clearly and comfortably with stylish glasses that complement your unique features. Visit us today to experience our exceptional service and find your perfect fit!
