Sunglass fit-over: A guide for eyeglass wearers
Sunglass fit-over: What does it mean and when is it the right solution solution?
CEO & Owner of PREGO with +25 years of experience in the glasses industry.
Fit-over sunglasses are created for glasses wearers
Fit-over sunglasses are not ordinary sunglasses in a larger size. They're made for one purpose: to be worn over your own glasses.
This makes them especially useful when you need sun protection but still want to see clearly with your normal prescription strength.
When looking for fit-over sunglasses, you're probably looking for a pair of sunglasses that can be worn over your regular glasses. It is a solution that is especially aimed at people who use prescription glasses and would like to avoid switching to a separate pair of sunglasses. Here at PREGO, we also call them Wear over sunglasses, but the concept is exactly the same.
Fit-over simply means that the sunglasses are made to fit "over" your own glasses. Therefore, this type differs from regular sunglasses, which usually sit directly on the face without another frame underneath.
This makes fit-over sunglasses a practical category for those who want simplicity. You keep your glasses on, take the fit-over sunglasses on the outside and you're ready for the sun.
Fit-over as an alternative to prescription sunglasses
Many spectacle wearers consider prescription sunglasses. It can be a good solution, but it is not always the most flexible. If your strength changes, or if you primarily wear sunglasses occasionally, fit-over may be more practical.
Sunglass fit-over does not require you to have separate prescription lenses made. They work with the glasses you already use. This means that you can use the same sunglasses solution even if you have different regular glasses.
It is especially smart if you have several pairs of glasses or if you would like to avoid buying new prescription sunglasses every time your vision changes.
The situation where fit-over makes the most sense
Fit-over sunglasses are especially good in situations where you need to react quickly to sunlight. It can be when you leave a shop, get into the car or come out into strong light on holiday.
They are also good if you only need sunglasses for periods of time. Perhaps you use them mostly in the car. Perhaps you use them mostly for walks. Maybe you just want an easy backup solution at the ready.
That's why fit-over sunglasses are often more practical than glamorous. But that doesn't mean they have to look boring.
Why size is important
When choosing fit-over sunglasses, size is more important than regular sunglasses. They don't just have to fit your face. They also need to fit over your current glasses.
This means you should look at the width, height and depth. If the fit-over sunglasses are too small, they can push your regular glasses against your face. If it's too big, it can feel loose or clumsy.
The best solution is a model that covers well without feeling excessive.
A good fit-over sunglass should solve a practical problem without creating a new one. It must fit over your glasses, sit stable and be easy to use when the sun suddenly bothers you.– Jesper Krog Jensen
Sunglasses fit-over for light, glare and everyday use
Sunlight can be bothersome in many ways. It can be direct sun, low evening sun, light from wet roads, reflections from water or strong light in snow and open areas.
Here, fit-over sunglasses can be a good everyday solution. They allow you to quickly get darker lenses in front of your eyes while keeping your regular glasses on.
If you often experience annoying light, it can be handy to have a pair stuck in your car or bag.
Design still matters
Although fit-over sunglasses are primarily practical, looks still matter. Glasses are visible on the face, and therefore most people want a model that feels fairly natural to wear.
A simpler frame can be good if you want a subdued look. A darker and more distinctive frame may be relevant if you would like sunglasses with a clearer character.
The most important thing is that the design does not stand in the way of the function. The sunglasses must fit over your glasses and feel comfortable to wear.
How to get started choosing
Start by looking at your regular glasses. Is the frame tall, wide or strong? Then you must choose a fit-over model with plenty of space. If you have a smaller and narrow frame, you can often choose a more discreet model.
Then think about where you use sunglasses the most. For driving, coverage and stability can be important. For walks and holidays, comfort and low weight may be more important.
When the need is clear, the choice becomes easier.
