Exploring Spring Hinge Types For Glasses - A Guide To Long-Lasting Eyewear
Dec 10 2024
If you are thinking about changing your glasses or getting a new pair, an overlooked yet important detail is the hinges.
The hinges of your glasses have a direct impact on their durability and functionality since they are responsible for the opening and closing of the temples (arms).
Our guide below will discuss the role of hinges in more depth, the different types, which hinges to choose, why to choose spring hinges, and where to shop for the best eyewear with spring hinges.
Understanding The Role Of Glasses Hinges
The hinges on glasses are the mechanism that allows your glasses to fold, making them easier to store and carry. They also impact the fit and comfort of your frames, as well as the stability when moving around or playing sports.
There are three main types of hinges on glasses which we will explore next.
Types Of Glasses Hinges
Standard Or Barrel Hinges
These are the most common type of hinges on glasses and have a series of interlocking metal hoops that are held together with a small screw. You’ll even find them on hinges like doors and gates.
It’s a straightforward no-frills design that provides a solid connection between the frames and temples, which is also why it’s the most popular.
Pros
Affordable - The simplicity of barrel hinges makes them a great budget-friendly option.
Durable - With fewer moving parts this means the standard hinges are robust and less prone to wear and tear.
Easy to repair - If the barrel hinge becomes loose or needs adjusting, repairing the hinges is simple to do. You can even do it at home, all you need is a basic eyeglass repair kit and a YouTube video!
Cons
Limited flexibility - Since standard hinges open at a fixed 90-degree angle this restricts movement and makes them more likely to fall off during physical activity.
Fit adjustment - They may need periodic adjustments to ensure a snug fit, especially if you wear them daily.
Spring Hinges - A Game Changer For An Active Lifestyle
These are also known as flex hinges and have an internal spring mechanism that allows the temples to extend beyond a 90-degree angle. This gives the glasses a more snug fit which is why they are popular for sports.
Pros
Enhanced flexibility - The ability for the arms to extend beyond 90 degrees means they can adapt to head movements and provide a snug fit without causing head pressure.
Ideal for active users - Glasses with spring hinges are less likely to fall off during physical activity like running or other workouts. They flex with movement and stay in place.
Minimal maintenance - They require little readjustment over time, unlike standard hinges which helps them to retain their original fit and balance.
Cons
Complex repairs - Due to their more intricate design, spring hinges are more difficult to repair than standard barrel hinges. When they break or loosen you will need to take them to a professional optician for repairs since they need specialty tools.
Higher cost - The added flexibility and comfort of spring hinges make them more costly.
Hingeless Frames - A Modern Take On Durability
Hingeless frames have flexible temples which wrap around the head, they are typically made from strong pliable materials like titanium.
Pros
Unbreakable design - Since there is no hinge to break, these glasses are very durable making them ideal for labor-intensive work or sports.
Custom fit - Hingeless frames are adjustable which allows opticians to adjust and tailor fit glasses to your unique head shape.
Cons
Nose bridge stability - With no hinge, this means hingeless glasses rely on the temple arms for a stable fit, this can result in a less secure fit around the nose.
Selecting The Right Hinge For Your Lifestyle
For Active Lifestyles
Spring hinges are best for people with an active lifestyle since they offer a secure and comfortable fit while adapting to your head movement. They are best for anyone who engages in lots of physical activity and doesn’t want to adjust their glasses often.
For Durability On a Budget
For a dependable low-budget option, Barrel hinges are the best choice. They are also easy to repair and more affordable.
For Minimalism and Modernity
For people who seek a lightweight and streamlined design, hingeless frames are ideal and have no risk of wear and tear.
Why Spring Hinges Stand Out
Spring hinges are one of the most popular types of hinges for eyeglasses due to the following reasons -
Enhanced comfort - They adapt to any face shape without adding pressure. Flexibility prevents pinching around the face making them suitable for all-day wear.
Durability for active lifestyles - They are more resistant to wear and tear and handle impacts and minor stretches better than regular hinges. This makes them ideal for active people or people who are rough with their glasses.
Low maintenance fit - These hinges require fewer adjustments over time and once fitted they maintain their shape and snugness. This reduces the amount of visits to the opticians.
Where To Buy Affordable & Suitable Glasses With The Right Hinges
Founded in 2004, GlassesShop offers over 1800 different types of frames with various customized lens options such as blue-blocking lenses, photochromic lenses, and transition lenses.
Other glasses we offer for better fitting are; screwless glasses, ultralight eyewear, glasses with adjustable nose pads, and high-index lens options.
We have a home try-on service that also allows you to try on frames at home, helping you experience the material and size before making a final purchase.
To help get you the best glasses for your budget we have lots of deals such as buy one get one free, allowing you to purchase two types of glasses to see what suits you best, and also give you your first pair of glasses for free!
There is free shipping over $69 and also a 365-day guarantee on all our eyeglasses.
Shop our spring-hinge glasses here.