Eyeglasses Frame Types

Full-Rim Eyeglasses

Full-rim eyeglasses have a frame that fully surrounds the lens. They are some of the sturdiest and most reliable eyeglasses frames, making them perfect for people with a tendency to drop things.  Parents should consider getting their kids a pair of full-rim frames because of their durability. Although they may feel a little bit heavier, they are often a popular choice for people with an active lifestyle.

Half-Rimless Frames

A half-rimless eyeglasses frame design has a rim over the top half of the lens (and sometimes just on the bottom half). In most cases the bottom part of the lens is held in place by a nylon cord, but some frames are drill mounted so the cord is not necessary. The frame on a half-rimless frame is most commonly on the top of the lens, although occasionally it is located on the bottom of the lens.

Half-rim eyewear have frames without a complete rim structure around the lens. Instead, there is a solid structure overtop of the lens, which can considerably reduce the weight of the frame.

Half-rim eyeglasses frames are ideal for people who want a lightweight yet trendy pair of eyewear that's comfortable for wearing over long periods of time.

Rimless Eyeglasses

Rimless eyeglasses frames have no frame at all around the lens. Rimless eyeglasses come in three pieces (two temples and the nose part). The lenses are actually part of the structure of the frame, so it is important to only use high index, polycarbonate or Trivex lens material on rimless glasses.

Mounting lenses into rimless eyeglass frames is tricky and requires a skilled and experienced technician. Each lens must be drilled perfectly so that the frame fits snugly into the lens. Poorly mounted rimless glasses frames will begin to rattle, and can eventually crack the lens. One advantage of buying rimless glasses frames online at Eyeglasses.com is that our labs produce very high quality rimless mountings.

Rimless eyewear have lenses attached at the bridge (the part across your nose) and the hinges that connect to the arms. This frame type is ideal for people who want to minimize people being distracted by bulky or colorful lenses.

Rimless frames are a popular choice for both men and women. They're also commonly considered for being stylish and worn on special occasions such as weddings and graduations. However, while rimless frames are sleek and reveal more of your face, they also are less sturdy than other frame types.

Shop By Color