Why Fit Matters with Progressive Readers
Eyeglasses are, first and foremost, a medical device. It may not seem that way today, with many of the world's leading fashion brands offering eyewear collections, but glasses primary purpose has always been to help people see better. And, while style is important and choosing frames you enjoy wearing matters, function comes first. If your glasses don't provide clear, comfortable vision, it doesn't matter how attractive they are—you'll be less likely to wear them, and they'll spend more time in a drawer than on your face.
Progressive reading glasses are different from single-vision reading glasses because the lens contains multiple viewing zones. Magnification in progressive lenses change power gradually from the top of the lens to the bottom, allowing you to see objects at different distances, without switching glasses. For the lens to perform as designed, the frame must fit correctly so it holds the lens in the proper position in front of your eyes.
Proper Lens Alignment
Progressive lenses are designed so your eyes naturally look through specific areas of the lens depending on what you're viewing. If the frame is too wide, too narrow, or constantly sliding down your nose, your eyes may not align with the intended viewing zones. This can make it more difficult to find the clearest part of the lens.
Stable Position
A well-fitting frame stays in the same position throughout the day. When glasses slide down your nose, the viewing zones shift with them. A stable fit helps provide a more consistent visual experience whether you're reading, using a computer, or looking across the room.
Comfort Encourages Use
Frames that pinch or press on your nose can become uncomfortable during extended wear. Frames that are too wide may slip and require frequent adjustment. A properly fitted frame is a more comfortable frame, making it easier to wear your progressive readers throughout the day.
Adapting to Progressive Lenses
One of the most common concerns people have about progressive lenses is they can take time to adapt to. That's understandable. Over the years, I've spoken with many customers who told me they had previously tried prescription progressive lenses from an optometrist but never became comfortable wearing them.
Based on customer feedback, many people find our Sightline progressive lenses comfortable from the first time they wear them. Like all progressive lenses, however, they perform best when the frame fits properly and your eyes remain aligned with the lens design. An appropriately sized frame helps position the lenses where they were intended to be used, improving access to the various viewing zones.
Worried progressive readers won't work for you? Not a problem. We have your back. Sightline offers free shipping and returns in the USA, so, if you have to adapt, send them back for a full refund.
Choosing the Right Frame Size
The best frame size depends on the width of your face and how the glasses rest on your nose and ears. When you buy frames at an optical shop, part of the purchase process is a fitting and final adjustment. Even ready-made progressive readers should be held to the same standards as prescription eyeglasses so they can be adjusted for proper comfort and fit.
At Sightline Readers, we organize our progressive reading glasses into Narrow, Medium, and Wide fit categories to help customers find frames that match their facial dimensions before selecting a style. We also provide several sizing tools to help you determine which frame size is right for you.
Click here for more information and tools to help you determine your best frame size.
Choosing the correct frame size is just as important as choosing the correct lens power. Our Narrow, Medium, and Wide fit categories—and our sizing tools—make it easier to find progressive readers that fit comfortably and perform the way they were designed.