Have you ever wandered through the aisles of your local sunglass shop only to be puzzled by those perplexing E and W sizes imprinted on the frames? DO you know “What Does Size E and W Mean in Sunglasses?”
I know I certainly have! For the longest time, I had no clue how the simple letters related to finding my most comfortable pair. But I’ve since discovered the key difference between E and W-sized frames that can make all the difference in your shades experience.
What Does Size E and W Mean in Sunglasses?
Topics Covered In This Article
- 1 What Does Size E and W Mean in Sunglasses?
- 2 E Frames are Designed for Eastern Nose Bridges
- 3 W Frames Suit Higher Western Nose Bridges
- 4 Choosing Between E and W Frames
- 5 Other Measurements for Fit
- 6 Examples of E and W Sizes
- 7 Finding Your Perfect Fit
- 8 FAQs about Size E and W Mean in Sunglasses
- 9 Bottom Line on Size E and W Mean in Sunglasses:
When shopping for sunglasses, you may notice frame sizes marked as E or W. These letters actually refer to the bridge and nose pad design to fit either Eastern or Western facial structures.
E Frames are Designed for Eastern Nose Bridges
The E in sunglass sizing stands for Eastern fit frames. These are designed for flatter nose bridges more common among Eastern Asian ethnicities.
Key features of E frames
- Narrower bridge width to fit flatter nasal profiles
- Lower nose pads placed closer together
- Lenses may be set closer together to align with narrower nose shape
- SLE (Second Locking Eyewire) helps keep E frames securely in place
So E sizing indicates the entire frame is engineered specifically to fit flattened Eastern nose bridges.
W Frames Suit Higher Western Nose Bridges
The W in sizes denotes Western fit frames suited to the higher nose bridges frequently found among Caucasian face shapes.
Characteristics of W frames
- Wider bridge dimensions to fit wider Western noses
- Higher nose pads spread farther apart
- Lenses set slightly farther apart to fit broader nasal shape
- Sturdy construction supports the weight of larger frames on higher bridges
Thus, W sizing reflects frames designed for elevated Western nose profiles.
Choosing Between E and W Frames
Should you choose E or W sunglass sizes Consider the shape and height of your nasal bridge
- If your bridge is low and flat, E frames designed for Eastern noses will likely fit better.
- If your bridge is higher and more prominent, W frames made for Western noses are a better match.
- Adjustable silicone nose pads allow customizing the fit for comfort.
- Try on different E and W sizes and styles to see which fits your facial contours best.
While E and W indicate general Eastern vs. Western fits, every face is unique. Let your individual nasal shape determine whether E or W sizes are right for you.
Other Measurements for Fit
Sunglass sizes may also include dimensions for lens width, bridge width, and temple length.
- Lens width in mm should align with the width of your face at the cheeks.
- Bridge width impacts how the frames sit on your nose.
- Temple length of 120mm-150mm ensures the arms extend properly behind your ears.
Combine evaluating the E vs. W fit with other sizing measurements for ideal shades.
Examples of E and W Sizes
To better understand the concepts, here are examples of how some brands size their E vs. W frames
1. Oakley
E frames marked as OA55 17ED would have 55mm lens width with 17mm bridge, Eastern fit.
W frames like OA59 18WD mean 59mm lens width, 18mm bridge, Western fit.
2. Maui Jim
E sizing like 57-17-135 indicates 57mm lens width, 17mm bridge, 135mm temples, Eastern fit.
W would be listed as 61-19-140, with wider bridge and temples for Western fit.
3. Ray-Ban
E sizes like 52-17-140 describe Eastern fit with a 17mm bridge.
W has larger bridge like 52-21-140 designed for Western nose shape.
Also Read: What Are Buffs Sunglasses?
Finding Your Perfect Fit
Follow these tips for determining your ideal sunglass sizing with E vs. W fits
- Analyze your nose shape to decide if an Eastern or Western frame bridge will work better.
- Look at full size measurements like lens width and temple length too.
- Try on different E and W sizes and styles to feel the fit firsthand.
- Adjust nose pads and temples for total comfort.
- An expert optician can help determine the best measurements suited to your facial structure.
With the right E or W frame paired with your other sizing needs, you’ll find the perfect sunglasses for your face!
FAQs about Size E and W Mean in Sunglasses
Still have some questions about E and W sizing conventions Here are answers to common queries
What is the difference between E and W frames?
E means Eastern fit for flatter noses, W is Western fit for higher nose bridges. Bridge and nose pads differ to suit each face shape.
How do I know if I need E or W fit?
Analyze your nose – if it’s flatter, E will likely fit better. If it’s higher, W will probably be a better match.
Can someone with a Western nose wear E frames?
Yes, fit depends on more than just Eastern Western categories. But those with Western noses may find W sizes fit more comfortably overall.
Do all brands use E and W sizing?
Many do, but some like Ray-Ban have their own systems. However, their sizing still accounts for EasternWestern fits.
Should I get custom fitted for E or W frames?
Yes, an optician can assess your face shape and bridge to definitively determine if E or W sizes will work best for you.
Bottom Line on Size E and W Mean in Sunglasses:
Don’t get overwhelmed by E vs. W frame sizing. Now you know E indicates Eastern low nose fit, while W means Western higher nose fit. Combined with other measurements for your facial shape, identifying the right E or W size makes getting flawlessly fitting, comfortable sunglasses a breeze!
In the end, nailing your exact E or W size is all about understanding your personal nasal structure. Both strategies aim to suit diverse face types, but one will naturally be a smoother fit. Never fear – an expert can analyze your features up close to verify your perfect fit.
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