Reading Your Frame Size
Choosing the right eyeglasses isn’t just about style—it’s about precision. A frame that fits poorly can cause discomfort, slip off your nose, or even distort your vision.
To ensure your glasses look great and feel secure, learning how to read and interpret frame size measurements is essential. This guide will walk you through locating, decoding, and applying these numbers to find your perfect fit.
Where to Find Frame Measurements
Most glasses have three numbers printed on the inside of the temple arms (the arms that rest behind your ears). These numbers are usually in the format XX-XX-XXX (e.g., 52-18-140). If the text is faded, use a magnifying glass or measure manually with a ruler.
Decoding the Three Key Numbers
The three numbers represent specific dimensions of the frame:
1. Lens Width (e.g., 52)
- What it means: The horizontal width of one lens, measured in millimeters (mm).
- Why it matters: Determines how the frame sits horizontally on your face. Lenses that are too narrow may pinch your temples, while oversized lenses can overwhelm your features.
- Ideal fit: The lens width should align with the width of your face. For most adults, lens widths range from 48mm to 60mm.
2. Bridge Width (e.g., 18)
- What it means: The distance between the two lenses, measured across the bridge of the nose.
- Why it matters: Affects how the frame rests on your nose. A bridge too narrow can pinch, while one too wide causes slipping.
- Ideal fit: Bridge widths typically range from 14mm to 24mm. Those with a flatter nose bridge may need a smaller number, while a higher bridge requires a larger measurement.
3. Temple Length (e.g., 140)
- What it means: The length of the temple arms, from the hinge to the tip, in millimeters.
- Why it matters: Ensures the temples wrap comfortably around your ears without pressing too tightly or sliding forward.
- Ideal fit: Temple lengths usually range from 135mm to 155mm. Longer temples suit larger heads, while shorter ones work for petite frames.
How to Measure Your Frame Size Manually
If your glasses lack visible numbers, use a ruler (preferably millimeter-marked) to measure:
- Lens Width: Measure horizontally across one lens.
- Bridge Width: Measure the gap between the two lenses at the nose.
- Temple Length: Measure from the hinge to the tip of the temple arm.