Plastic or Metal Glasses: A Candid Discussion on Nose Pads

Plastic or Metal Glasses: A Candid Discussion on Nose Pads

To be honest, whether you choose to wear plastic glasses or metal glasses its all in a matter of preference. However, when you want to talk about nose pads, this is where the line is drawn amongst buyers of fashion eyewear.

What are Nose Pads?

Nose pads are the material that touches the side of the nose where the weight of the eyewear rests. Therefore, nose pads are a critical component of purchasing eyewear because the nose pad takes the brunt of…everything…the weight, movement, bumps and hits. So how do you know which type of eyewear to get? Well, let’s take a look to help you make that decision.

Plastic Frames

Plastic frames have the built-in nose pads. Okay, maybe they are not ‘technically’ nose pads, but instead a molded bridge that makes wearing plastic frames more comfortable. Now, not everyone can easily wear plastic frames. There are some where the plastic sits too far down the nose and the top of the plastic frame cuts through the eye. It might be good if you are reading all the time, but I doubt that.

If you find yourself pushing the plastic glasses up your nose too frequently, then you might be the one that needs nose pads. In this instance, nose pads help to keep your eyewear in place so you don’t have to keep adjusting the plastic frames.

Metal Frames

Metal frames are all about the nose pads. Plastic frames, even clear plastic frames are bulkier in nature. Metal frames are going to have a more minimalistic look and they also will require nose pads. Now nose pads on the metal frames isn’t for everyone. Yes, they won’t move, but sometimes they get sticky and it feels like you are pulling them off your nose. And, it seems that they leave marks on the nose as well, where you can see the outline of the nose pads. If that bothers you, then plastic may be the way to go.

However, if you don’t like either option, the you may want to look into contact lenses. But there lies a lot of other issues.

Various Shape Nose Pads

Nose pads are not a one size fits all scenario, nose pads come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some nose pads are the typical oval shape, or tear drop shape. Both provide a similar comfort in order for the glasses to rest comfortably in place. But there are other shapes as well:

Round - round nose pads are great when the weight of the eyewear is light. For instance, if the eyewear is made from titanium, a very light metal and a low prescription, or a simple pair of sunglasses, round nose pads can easily do the trick.

Unified bridge - A unified bridge will give the eye wearer a ton of support. These are a single piece pad that provides a large are of surface comfort and support as it distributes the weight of the eyewear evenly on the face.

Size Nose Pads

Nose pads come in a variety of sizes. Some of the most common sizes are 11mm, 12mm, 13mm, 14mm, 15mm, 17mm and 19mm. Choosing the right size is important for your comfort. Be sure you know which size is best for you before purchasing replacement nose pads. This is a matter of preference and comfort. Be sure to try various sizes on before purchase.

Nose Pads Summary

Nose pads are a personal preference. To wear or not to wear. Whichever you choose, be sure to shop here at framebay.com for the latest styles by your favorite eyewear designer.
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