Picking Glasses? Frame Size Matters | Sunglass & Optical - San Diego's Lowest Prices (2024)

Have you ever wondered what the numbers on the “temple arms” (the long arms on the sides of eyeglass and sunglasses frames that extend from the hinge and over the ears) mean? Are they important?

They certainly are.

If you’re not sure what numbers we’re referring to, check the inside of the left temple arm of your glasses. There, you’ll find printed the size measurement of your frames. The measurement usually consists of three numbers, such as 50-19-140.

The first number in the sequence represents the width (in millimeters) of the lenses; the second is width of the bridge (the distance between the lenses over your nose) measured in millimeters and usually separated by a small dash or rectangle; while the third number is the temple arm length.

Why These Numbers are Important

When you get a pair of glasses or sunglasses from your optometrist or eye care provider, you’ve probably noticed that they go to great to take certain measurements of your head, face shape, and features—so it should come as no surprise that properly-sized frames matter.

Picking Glasses? Frame Size Matters | Sunglass & Optical - San Diego's Lowest Prices (1)

According to the Business Insider article, How to Pick the Right Glasses for Your Face, the width of your frames should match the width of your face, which means the glasses should not hang off the side of your face (frame is too wide) nor should the sides of your temples be visible (frame is too narrow). Likewise, your glasses should appear as though they are located roughly in the middle of your face vertically, providing a nice balance between the top of your face and the bottom.

You should also be able to see your eyebrows (at least half of them) above the frames, and each eye should be directly in the center of the lens, from left to right, while your eye should fill the top half of the lens vertically, with the bottom of the eye roughly touching the vertical midpoint of the lens.

Also, if your glasses routinely slide down your nose, this is a sign that the temples arms need to be bent around your ears to better keep them in place.

What’s Your Size?

Traditionally, your eyecare professionals are the ones responsible for sizing your frames to fit your face. They will take a number of measurements when you are first fitted for glasses, then make adjustments when your glasses arrive and you put them on for the first time.

Nowadays though, with the advent of online purchasing (even prescription glasses can be purchased online when you have a copy of yourprescription), this traditional approach isn’t always possible. Luckily, most online retailers provide guides for how to pick the right-sized frames for your face, and most have generous return policies should you not get it right.

Lens Width

For example, Ray-Ban offers a unique way to gauge lens width:

  • Take a credit card, which is the approximate width of a standard size lens.
  • In front of a mirror or a webcam, place one edge of the credit card at the center of your nose and note where the other edge lands.
  • If the edge of the credit card ends at or near the corner of your eye, your lens fit should be standard size.
  • If the edge of the credit card extends well beyond the corner of your eye, you should get a small size
  • If the edge of the credit card does not reach the corner of your, then opt for a large size
Temple Arms

With frames, the temple armsmeasurementtends to be between 135mm to 150 mm. For proper sizing, use the measurement on your current pair of glasses (provided they fit and feel right to you). If you have had problems with the temple arms being too short in the past, look for frames with lengths of 145mm and 150mm. Conversely, if you have had problems with the temple arms being too long in the past, look for frames with lengths of 135mm to 140mm.

Bridge Width

Again, if you have a current pair of glasses that fit well, your bridge width should be printed on inside of the left temple arm. It’s the middle number and it’s likely to be between 16 and 21mm.

If your current glasses fit fine, use this number. But if your current glasses pinch your nose and tend to ride high on your face, consider a wider bridge width. If your current glasses tend to slide down your nose and ride low on your face, consider a narrower bridge width.

Frame thickness also plays a role in how your glasses fit on your nose. For example, thick frames tend to require a wider bridge width than thinner frames. If the frames you are considering buying differ from your current pair of glasses, you may need to adjust your bridge width.

The Size is Right

In addition to being more comfortable and stylish, glasses and sunglasses that fit your face are more effective at aiding your vision and shielding your eyes from the sun. For more than 30 years, the skilled team of optometrists, opticians, and other eye care professionals at Sunglass & Optical Warehouse have been sizing and adjusting eyeglasses and sunglasses for people in Greater San Diego.

Contact us today to discuss how we might be able to help you find a pair of glasses and sunglasses that both fit your face and your style.

Sports Arena Warehouse (Kurtz Street) | Sports Arena Boutique (Hanco*ck Street) | Kearny Mesa (Convoy Street)

Picking Glasses? Frame Size Matters | Sunglass & Optical - San Diego's Lowest Prices (2024)

FAQs

What is the average price of glasses and frames? ›

The price range for glasses frames spans from about $50 to more than $1,000, depending on the brand, though the average price is usually slightly less than $200, with insurance.

How do I choose the right frame size for my glasses? ›

The width of your frames should not be wider than the width of your face at the temples. The top of your frames should be no higher than the line of your eyebrows. The lower edge of the frames shouldn't sit on your cheeks otherwise they will start to rub against your skin and cause irritation.

Can you choose the frame of your glasses? ›

Once you know your face shape, you will know how to select your frames. For every face shape, there are complementary frames that can help balance your look. Certain frames can accentuate or even slim certain features. If you have an oval-shaped face, good news, you will look amazing in most frames.

What size frame is best for progressive lenses? ›

The minimum fitting height for progressive lenses is 28-30mm. This will allow proper room in each part of the lens so that you can see your best, whether you're driving or using your computer.

Are more expensive glasses frames better? ›

Very much like automobiles, in general the more you pay, the more you get. Designer labels aside, more expensive frames are more complex, made from better materials, and handcrafted in countries that pay fair labor rates. This translates into a better quality, longer lasting products. Next week, Part 2: Lenses.

Why are frames for glasses so expensive? ›

One reason: the manufacturing and materials used to create eyeglasses. It's true that frames and lenses are manufactured better today than they were 30 years ago. Additionally, when it comes to lenses for those frames, there are many upgrade options that promise (and often deliver) a better experience.

What is the most common eyeglass frame size? ›

The most common options are 135 mm, 140 mm, 145 mm, and 150 mm. The temples should fit horizontally and evenly along the sides of your head, and fit comfortably along the outside of your ear. To find your temple length, measure from the hinge screws to the tip of the arm.

How do I know my face width for glasses? ›

Frame width is the most straightforward aspect and is determined by measuring the distance between your temples. To find your frame measurement, hold the ruler horizontally across your face and just below your eyes. You'll then get your temple measurement by noting the distance between your left and right temples.

How do you know if your glasses are too big for your face? ›

Glasses that are too big will feel like they're slipping off of your face and ears. They'll often be too wide for your face, with the lenses extending too far past the sides. If your eyes look a bit too close together (or close to the glasses bridge), that's another signal that your glasses might be too big.

How to choose the best glasses and frames for your face shape? ›

When determining frames, think of contrasting shapes. For square-shaped faces, use curved frames to soften your face's sharper angles and give it a thinner appearance. For heart-shaped faces, round glasses draw the eyes away from the forehead to give the face a more symmetrical appearance.

Should glasses cover your eyebrows? ›

As a rule, at least the top half of your eyebrows should be visible. Your glasses shouldn't cover them completely, nor should they show them so much that your eyebrows look like they're floating on top of your frame.

What frames are unsuitable for progressive lenses? ›

Progressive wearers should avoid aviators and cat-eyes because both can cut off the bottom portion of the prescription, resulting in a loss of reading vision. Instead, they should look for shorter frames with rounded edges such as horn-rimmed, retro wingtip, circular, and oval ones.

Are bigger glasses better for your eyes? ›

Oversized glasses are often worn as a fashion statement and an expression of style. But in sunglasses, larger lenses also mean more protection from annoying glare and damaging ultraviolet rays. Like all eyewear, glasses with oversized frames should be sized to fit your face.

What are the disadvantages of progressive lenses? ›

Progressive lenses also have some disadvantages. They can be more expensive than bifocals or trifocals. These lenses also require a larger frame size to accommodate the multiple corrective zones. Also, because of how they work, progressive lenses can cause peripheral blurriness.

Are cheap frames worth it? ›

At first glance, some cheap eyeglass frames may look like more expensive frames. But often, they are made of low-grade materials that can cause skin irritation over time. Cheap plastic frames can get bleached by UV rays and the finish can roughen after a few months of wear.

Is there a difference between cheap and expensive glasses? ›

Cheaper lenses generally use more common lens materials. They may not be as tailored to your needs as other lens materials, but they still provide clear vision for a fraction of the cost. Generally speaking, the lower the cost of your lenses, the fewer features you have available.

How often should you change your glasses frames? ›

Your current eyewear should last you an average of one to three years (sometimes more with the right treatment). If you're unsure about how often you should get new glasses' frames, consider switching them out after the three-year mark--or when you notice any problems with your glasses or vision.

What is the most expensive part of prescription glasses? ›

The frames are almost always going to be the most expensive part of buying glasses, so cutting down on how often you buy them will be the most cost-effective part of the process.

Is it cheaper to get new lenses in old frames? ›

Replacing the lenses instead of getting new frames and lenses is usually cheaper.

Can I bring my own frames to LensCrafters? ›

While glasses retailers differ on whether or not they allow patrons to use their frames when replacing a scratched or otherwise worn-out set of lenses, LensCrafters does enable customers to bring in their frames with a few caveats. First, they must be in good shape.

Should my glasses touch my cheeks when I smile? ›

No, glasses are not supposed to sit on your cheeks. Many of us wear eyeglasses every day. They should be, above all, comfortable. The place where the glasses should sit is on your nose and not your cheeks.

Why do my glasses cover my eyebrows? ›

Your glasses can go over your eyebrows due to the way they fit and how thick the frame is. Your glasses bridge width informs how high they rest on your face. The thickness of your glasses can also mean they'll cover your brow line. This isn't a bad thing, as long as your spectacles are comfortable and fit you properly.

Are glasses with nose pads better than without? ›

If your nose is sensitive to weight or the bridge of your nose is lower, you should choose glasses with nose pads. If you are particularly looking for beauty and don't want any marks on your face, then choose glasses without nose pads. In fact, it is hard to say which one is better between nose pads and no nose pads.

How do I determine my face shape? ›

Measure from the center of your hairline to the tip of your chin. Next, measure from the left side of your face to the right side. If your face is longer than it is wide, you may have an oval face shape. If your face is wider than it is long, you may have a round or heart face shape.

Is there an app to determine face shape for glasses? ›

Discover your perfect look with Hiface, a unique app that uses advanced AI technology to determine your face shape and provide personalized recommendations for hairstyles, makeup, glasses, and fashion. Hiface is your go-to style assistant that helps you elevate your look and feel more confident in your appearance.

What shape should eyebrows be for eyeglasses? ›

Tip #1: Your frames should flow with the shape of your eyebrows. Choose frames that flow with the shape of your eyebrows. If you have thin, arched eyebrows, square-shaped frames are probably not a good idea. You want the eyebrows to be parallel to the top of the frames when it comes to the position of your eyebrows.

Should you wear eye makeup with glasses? ›

A smoky eye? Glasses and cosmetics can both be a means for outwardly expressing your personality, but there's a common misconception that the two don't mix. Don't worry—that's simply not the case. In fact, there's no reason your makeup routine needs to change just because you wear glasses.

What eyebrow shape is best for glasses? ›

People with flatter brows tend to have a fringe. So, when picking a frame, work from the brow line first. People with arched brows will look good in round frames but for those with flat brows, square frames tend to work best.

What color frame is best for glasses? ›

Matching glasses frames colour to eye colour

For a subdued and understated look, choose frames in a colour that match with the neutral tones in your eyes, such as brown, beige, or black. If you want to channel a fun, statement-making look, choose a colour that's contrasting but complementary to your eye colour.

Are metal or plastic eyeglass frames better? ›

Metal is typically more expensive than plastic, but it's durable and long-lasting. It also comes in a variety of colors and styles for you to choose from. Plastic is less expensive than metal, but it isn't as durable or flexible so it may not be ideal for active people.

What is the minimum frame size for progressive lenses? ›

Not all frames are suitable for Bifocals or Progressive. Bifocal lenses must have a minimum lens height of 27mm and Progressive lenses must have a minimum lens height of 28mm.

Why I don't like progressive lenses? ›

Progressive lenses can also cause peripheral distortion when moving your eyes from side to side. During the learning period, you may feel off-balance or even nauseated from looking through the wrong section of the lens. Cost is also a factor.

Why not to get progressive lenses? ›

Drawbacks of Progressive Lenses

Some people never adjust, but most do. During the learning period, you may feel dizzy and nauseous from looking through the wrong section of lens. There may also be some distortion of your peripheral vision (what you see on the edges when looking straight ahead).

Is it better to wear higher or lower prescription glasses? ›

Wearing lower prescription glasses typically won't have any long-term effect on the health of your eyes.

Where should glasses sit on ears? ›

Your frame arm should run horizontally and sit comfortably around your ears only touching your head right before your ears. With properly fit frames, there should be no pain around your ear or temple area.

Why are glasses so big now? ›

Oversized glasses became especially popular as an accessory in the past couple of years, with the rise of Work From Home and maximalist streetwear style. In the right proportion, they look very elegant and charming.

Is it difficult to drive in progressive lenses? ›

The most common issue is a slow adjustment period. It can take weeks to get used to progressive lenses, so if you notice any distortion while driving, work your way up to wearing them full time. For anyone who requires three prescriptions for eyeglasses, progressive lenses are the way to go.

Are bigger frames better for progressive lenses? ›

', the answer is yes. Here's why: Bigger lenses ensure you have ample coverage for each prescription. Most types of progressive lenses fit better in large frames, so you'll need bigger lenses to go with them.

What is the average price of progressive lenses? ›

Average cost of progressive lenses

Compared to the slightly lower cost of bifocal lenses, the average consumer pays between $150 and $250 for their progressive lenses. For this price range, you should be able to purchase a decent set of progressive lenses.

Is $300 a lot for glasses? ›

The average price for new glasses is between $200 and $300.

You can shop for the best price if you don't have insurance to help pay for them.

Which costs more frames or lenses? ›

The best way to keep costs down is to buy good quality frames and simply replace the lenses each year, keeping the same frames for several years. Lenses are not as expensive as buying the pair of glasses in full, making it far more affordable to do it this way.

Are expensive glasses frames worth it? ›

If you're a regular glasses-wearer, spending a little extra on a higher quality pair of frames with good durability and strength will save you money at the end of the day, because those frames won't wear down or outright break nearly as quickly as a cheaper pair of frames.

Are glasses cheaper than lenses? ›

It depends. If you're replacing your contact lenses often, they can be more expensive than a pair of glasses you wear for years. But, certain prescription glasses, for complex vision issues, can end up costing hundreds of dollars, often more than any kind of contact lenses.

Why is Lenscrafters so expensive? ›

Why are lenses so expensive at Lenscrafters? The characteristics of metal material The material of metal glasses frame chooses some kind of metal material or alloy to make mostly. Most of the copper alloys are treated as the base material and then have surface treatment processing.

How many people need glasses but can't afford them? ›

They revealed 1.1 billion people around the world need glasses, but don't have access to vision care. The study, which sought to determine how accessible vision care and quality eyewear are around the world, also found: Of the 2.5 billion people in the world that need glasses, 1.1 billion people lack access to glasses.

How much does it cost to put old lenses in new frames? ›

Average cost and duration for eyewear repairs
Common RepairsAverage CostAverage time frame
Cable Temple Conversion$59 to $8924 to 48 hours
Ptosis Eye Crutches$99 to $15924 to 48 hours
Lenses transfered to new frame$29 to $69 (does not include frame)24 to 48 hours
Welding metal eyewear frames$29 to $7924 to 48 hours
2 more rows

Which lenses are better glass or plastic? ›

Glass lenses provide the clearest vision with the smallest amount of distortion. Scratch resistance. Glass lenses are almost impossible to scratch, while plastic lenses can be scratched easily if you are not careful. Thin and attractive.

Is it OK to wear cheap glasses? ›

If you don't already need to wear regular eyeglasses, they may even be fine for longer. But cheap readers only magnify the print to help you read it. They are not specific to your individual eye's needs. They probably won't harm your eyesight, but you may experience headaches and eye strain if you use them too much.

Can I put new lenses in old frames? ›

Fortunately, you can typically continue to use your existing frames when you get new lenses, provided that the frames are in good condition and aren't too complicated in shape. If they're damaged or worn out, then you'll need to get a new pair of frames along with the new lenses.

Why are glasses more expensive in store? ›

Have you ever wondered why glasses cost so much? When you buy glasses from a traditional brick-and-mortar retailer, you're not just paying for the frame and lenses; you're also paying big money to cover the retailer's hefty outsourcing costs, which usually include manufacturing, licensing fees, warehousing, and more.

How much do progressive lenses cost at Costco? ›

How Much Does It Cost To Replace Lenses at Costco?
Lens PricesSingle VisionProgressive
RX-able.com$28/pair$58/pair
Costco$91/pair$160/pair
*In most cases, Rx-able.com edges new lenses in your frame within 24 hours of receiving your frame.
Dec 2, 2020

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