Nose Bridge Types for Glasses and Sunglasses

Nose Bridge Types for Glasses and Sunglasses

Published on July 28th, 2025

A nose bridge for glasses and sunglasses refers to the piece of the glasses that sits across the top of the nose, helping the glasses stay in place on the face. There is a range of different nose bridge types for glasses and sunglasses, including a keyhole nose bridge, saddle nose bridge, double nose bridge, wide nose bridge and narrow nose bridge. Keep reading to learn more about the types of nose bridges for glasses and sunglasses.

  • Keyhole Nose Bridge: A keyhole nose bridge refers to a slightly rounded, wider nose bridge, the shape of a keyhole.
  • Saddle Nose Bridge: A saddle nose bridge sits higher up on the nose and distributes wait evenly. 
  • Double bridge: A double nose bridge often refers to an aviator shaped frame, with two bars: one across the nose bridge, and one across the brow.
  • Wide Nose Bridge: A wide nose bridge slightly wider than the usual nose bridge fit.
    • Narrow Nose Bridge: A narrow nose bridge on glasses frames refers to a bridge that is smaller than normal.

    1. Keyhole Nose Bridge

    A keyhole nose bridge describes a slightly rounded, wider nose bridge fit. A keyhole nose bridge is visually inspired by the keyholes in old fashion doors.

    A pair of glasses with a keyhole nose bridge.
    A pair of glasses with a keyhole nose bridge.

    2. Saddle Nose Bridge

    A saddle nose bridge describes a glasses nose bridge that distributes weight on either side of the nose and sits higher up, and is shaped like an upside down U. Saddle nose bridges on glasses are common.

    A pair of glasses with a saddle nose bridge.
    A pair of glasses with a saddle nose bridge.

    3. Double Bridge

    A double bridge on glasses usually refers to an aviator frame. Double nose bridges on glasses will refer to two parallel horizontal bars above the nose bridge, connecting the lenses.

    A pair of glasses with a double nose bridge.
    A pair of glasses with a double nose bridge.

    4. Wide Nose Bridge

    A wide nose bridge on glasses is slightly wider than the usual nose bridge fit, accommodating those with a broader space across the top of the nose.

    A pair of glasses with a wide nose bridge.
    A pair of glasses with a wide nose bridge.

    5. Narrow Nose Bridge

    A narrow nose bridge on glasses refers to a bridge that is smaller than normal to accommodate those with a smaller or narrower nose bridge.

    A pair of glasses with a narrow nose bridge.
    A pair of glasses with a narrow nose bridge.

    What Is The Bridge of Glasses?

    The bridge of a glasses frame refers to the piece of the glasses that sits over the nose. There are a variety of different glasses bridges to suit different noses. Picking the correct one ensures a secure and comfortable fit.

    What is Bridge Width On Glasses?

    Bridge width on glasses refers to how wide the bridge of the glasses are. Glasses bridges are a part of the eyeglass that can come in several widths including narrow for smaller or narrower nose bridges, normal for standard size nose bridges, or wide, for wide nose bridges. The second number printed on the inner side of a frame temples is the bridge width.

    Does The Bridge Width On The Glasses' Frame Matter?

    Yes, the bridge width on glasses frames matters, as a person will need to choose a bridge width that suits their nose size and nose shape. If a person chooses a nose bridge that is not correct, they risk glasses being too big and sliding down the nose. If the bridge is too narrow the frames sits too high on the nose.

    How does The Double Bridge Design Affect Glasses Fit and Style?

    The double bridge design does not typically affect glasses fit and style, as the second bar is for aesthetic purposes. The double bridge design frame has two parallel horizontal bars connecting the lenses above the nose bridge, rather than the typical single bridge present in glasses. Double bridge designed glasses stylistically provide a retro statement and are commonly found in aviator glasses.