Fit
Size guide
How sunglasses are measured, and how to compare a frame with a pair you own. The shop’s own measurements decide.
The three numbers on a frame
Printed inside a temple, such as 52□20 145, in millimetres. Shops often list them too.
| Number | What it measures | Common range, mm |
|---|---|---|
| First | Width of one lens, at its widest | 45 to 62 |
| Second | Bridge: the gap between the lenses | 14 to 24 |
| Third | Temple: from the hinge to the tip | 135 to 150 |
Lens width and frame size
A rough guide by lens width. Total frame width, when a shop lists it, says more than any single number.
| Lens width, mm | Usually reads as | Total frame width, mm |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 49 | Small | Up to 130 |
| 50 to 53 | Medium | 130 to 138 |
| 54 to 57 | Large | 138 to 145 |
| 58 and over | Extra large and oversized | 145 and over |
Lens filter categories
The European categories describe how much light a lens lets through. The maker states the category; we have not tested any lens.
| Category | Light let through | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 80 to 100% | Fashion or overcast |
| 1 | 43 to 80% | Low sun |
| 2 | 18 to 43% | Medium sun |
| 3 | 8 to 18% | Bright sun |
| 4 | 3 to 8% | Very bright, not for driving |
Measuring
- Use a pair that fits: read the three numbers inside a temple and compare frames by them.
- Face width: measure straight across from temple to temple, just behind the eyes; a frame about as wide sits well.
- Bridge: a frame that pinches or sits high on the nose has too narrow a bridge.
- Temples: they should reach behind the ears without pressing at the sides of the head.
- Lens height matters for tall shapes: a lens that rests on the cheeks lifts when you smile.