Have you ever gone to order a new pair of glasses only for them to show up and not fit right? This happens way too often, since a lot of people don’t even really know how to tell what sunglasses will fit them best. But once you break down all the steps, figuring out how to make sure your glasses fit perfectly, really isn’t too complicated. So, here’s everything you need to know about finding your fit.
Measuring the Fit
There are two ways you can find out the exact measurements you need to look for when buying your next pair of sunglasses. The first, measure the hinge to hinge distance on a pair of sunglasses you already own and know fit. The hinge to hinge distance can be measured by taking a ruler and measuring the distance between each hinge on either side of the glasses using millimeters. Hinge distance ranges from XXS (<121mm) to XXL (>140), and is super easy to measure.
XS | 121-124 / 4.8-4.9
S | 125-128 / 4.9-5
M | 129-132 / 5.1-5.2
L | 133-136 / 5.3-5.4
XL | 137-140 / 5.4-5.5
XXL | >140 / >5.5
The other way is to check on the inside arm of your favorite pair of glasses and look for a combination of letters and numbers. The code, usually on the far left, is the model name. After that you’ll see the Lens width, Bridge width, and sometimes the temple width. All of this information will make it super easy to find glasses in your exact size.
Finding The Perfect Size
So now that you know exactly what size of glasses you need, how do you find that specific size? If you’re shopping in person you could always just find the numbers on the inside arm of the frame of the glasses you want and match it to the numbers you found from the methods above. But online, it may seem more difficult. In reality though, as long as you've figured out what size you are, you can just look up whatever glasses you want in that specific size. For example, XL Aviators or Oakley Flak XXS.
What Frame Style is Best For My Size?
Besides size, style is another big part of making sure your sunglasses fit you best. Some frames generally look better on specific sized heads. Typically larger or thicker frames look better on bigger heads and vice versa. But we can break it down.
Wire frames like Fuses Sanibel or Talbot typically fit people with small heads the best. This is because the thin wire frame doesn’t stand out too much on the face and doesn't make your head seem smaller in comparison.
Average glasses like Fuses Lido or Summerland frames fit medium sizes best, since the thickness of the frame is somewhere in between wire and thick.
Large sizes
Large to extra large sizes need thick frames. Similar to Fuses Anclote, Egmont or 3 Rooker frames. Since the frames are thick, they don't appear too small, like most glasses would, on larger heads.