Eyeglass ear cushions and some other accessories are the unsung heroes in a universe of ever-evolving eyewear trends. As new options emerge, which of these clever add-ons will earn their place in your daily lineup?
I’m giving you the lowdown on which add-ons I’d buy, deny, or maybe consider.
Eyeglass Ear Cushions
Eyeglass ear cushions, also known as ear grips, are accessories that are placed at the temple tips of your eyeglasses or sunglasses. They are designed to improve the fit of the glasses and prevent slippage. They can also lessen the pressure or friction of the temple tips against your ears and temples.
These ear cushions can be foam or silicone adhesive pads that you stick right to the temple tips, or padded sleeves made from knitted cotton, silicone, or rubber. If you buy the latter, just insert the arms of your frames into the sleeves, and you’re good to go!
Decision: Buy
In an ideal world, eyeglasses always fit perfectly and are comfortable to wear. But, sadly, that’s not how it is. Even if you bought your eyewear from a physical store and you did an actual fitting, you still can’t tell how they’ll feel and fit once you start wearing them regularly.
Eyeglass ear cushions might save your day! The only downside is the telltale sleeves that protrude from your temples.
Eyeglass Chains
Eyeglass chains let you hang your glasses around your neck by attaching to the temple arms at the hinges. They keep your eyewear close, help prevent drops, and eliminate the need for a case when you’re on the go.
Eyeglass chains are typically made from metal and often feature metallic accents, ornamental beads, and other decorative elements.
Decision: Deny
While it’s understandable why some people might need eyeglass chains, they generally seem like unnecessary accessories. If you prioritize free movement, they might even feel cumbersome. Plus, they’re another style focal point that you have to think about if you like to mix and match your outfit with your eyewear.
I’d rather keep my glasses in a case if I’m not using them, instead of having them dangle around my neck.
Cleaning Kit
An eyewear cleaning kit typically includes microfiber cleaning cloths or lens wipes, as well as lens cleaner sprays. You can easily fit these into a small bag that you can bring anywhere, and it will be ready to remove smudges and fingerprints from your lenses at any time.
Decision: Buy
This is a must-buy for everyone who wears eyeglasses or sunglasses. You will handle your eyewear periodically throughout your day. They will get dirty.
You can try wiping off your lenses with your shirt or a tissue, but be cautious: those materials can damage the lens coating. A proper cleaning kit is your best solution.
Nose Pads
Nose pads are small, soft, cushioned pieces that sit on the bridge of your nose. They’re typically transparent or translucent, and they can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, silicone, and rubber. Nose pads support your frames and prevent your eyeglasses from slipping.
Decision: Buy
Accessories that help with the fit and feel of eyeglasses are always must-haves. Nose pads are especially handy for people with low nose bridges.
Even if your eyewear comes with a set of pads, it’s a good idea to have a few extra pairs, as they darken and become dirty with time.
Eyewear Retainers
Adjustable straps, also known as eyewear retainers, work similarly to eyeglass chains. Made from a variety of lightweight materials, including silicone, neoprene, monofilament, cotton, and rope, they attach to the arms of your eyewear. Eyewear retainers allow you to keep your glasses around your neck when you’re not using them and tighten them for a snug fit. That’s especially helpful if you play sports!
Decision: Maybe
Before you accuse me of playing favorites in denying eyeglass chains, hear me out. Adjustable straps are light and functional. They are made specifically to allow for better movement.
You can tighten them around your temples so your frames don’t slip as you do a slam dunk. Hence, if you need them, consider getting them!
Magnifying Lens Clip-Ons
Magnifying lens clip-ons are clip-on lenses that provide magnification for reading and other close-up tasks. These lens accessories can be used with most eyeglasses by attaching them to the frame’s nose bridge.
Decision: Deny
These sound more like something I would have loved as a kid playing detective. However, as an adult who doesn’t require magnification, I prefer to use reading glasses for reading and other close-up tasks.
The magnifying power of these clip-ons might cause headaches and blurry vision. With prescription reading glasses, you only get the precise prescribed optical power that you need.
Eyeglass Holders and Stands
An eyeglass holder does more than store your glasses; it also doubles as a decorative piece for a desk, table, dresser, or vanity. It provides a designated spot to keep your eyewear safe and easily accessible. These holders come in a wide range of materials, including wood, ceramic, brass, and stainless steel.
Decision: Maybe
Eyeglass holders and stands are functional and decorative, but they only make sense if you have the space for them. If you find one that suits your aesthetic, why not give your eyewear an ornamental safe space?
Eyewear Cases and Pouches
Eyewear cases and pouches are portable storage for your eyeglasses. These are designed to protect your eyewear from damage.
- Hard cases, made from durable materials, offer the best impact protection.
- Soft cases are more compact and offer some impact protection, particularly if you buy one with padding.
- Pouches are convenient carrying bags made from light materials, such as microfiber and cotton. They offer minimal protection from lens scuffs and scratches.
Decision: Buy
Of course, you need a case or pouch for your glasses! Your eyewear is an investment in your vision and overall eye health. Protect your eyeglasses and they’ll serve you for a long time!
Eyeglass Repair Kits
An eyeglass repair kit typically contains springs, small screws, and other tools for repairing your eyeglasses. It might even include a specialized set of screwdrivers. Repair kits enable you to make quick and easy repairs to your eyewear.
Decision: Deny
Unless you have perfect vision without the glasses you need to correct, you risk damaging them. You’ll be working with tiny screws and tiny tools.
Without ample experience in eyewear repair, you might scratch the lenses or damage the frames. Leave the repair work to your optician.
TL;DR Summary
When it comes to comfort, protection, and style, some eyewear accessories are worth every penny. Others, not so much. Here’s my take:
- BUY eyeglass ear cushions and nose pads! They improve the comfort and fit of your glasses.
- DENY eyeglass chains. They add another style focal point and seem unnecessary.
- BUY eyeglass cleaning kits. You’ll need them!
- CONSIDER eyewear retainers if you move around a lot while wearing your glasses.
- Unless you’re a detective, DENY magnifying lens clip-ons. Just buy reading glasses for close-up tasks.
- BUY high-quality eyewear cases and pouches. They’re essential for protecting your glasses.
- If you have space and find one or more that match your style, CONSIDER eyewear holders and stands.
- DENY eyeglass repair kits. Leave the fixes to the professionals.
Of course, to each their own. Choose what works for you, and make the most of your new eyeglass accessories!
