Are Bates sunglasses good for small or narrow faces?

Yes. Bates is specifically a small, rectangular frame whose proportions work well on narrow or smaller faces. The lenses measure 48.5mm across with a 21mm bridge and 145mm temples, so the frame sits closer to the face than larger wayfarer-style shapes and keeps the overall look balanced. The sharp edges and compact eye depth of 32.5mm create cleaner lines that reduce the appearance of roundness, making them flattering on smaller jawlines. People with narrow cheekbones, short temple-to-ear length, or those who find standard oversized sunglasses overwhelming will benefit most. As a limitation, if you have a very wide face or prefer full coverage for high-glare activities, these may feel a bit small and offer less peripheral coverage than larger frames.

How effective are Bates sunglasses at blocking UV and reducing glare?

They block UVA and UVB radiation but provide only modest glare reduction. Bates uses rated polycarbonate for lenses and frames, and the tinted green lenses are specified to block UVA/UVB, so they protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet exposure. However, the product notes a little reduction of sunglare rather than full polarization, which means they lower brightness but do not cut reflected glare as effectively as polarized lenses. This makes them a solid everyday city or casual-use sunglass for UV protection and style, while those who need maximal glare control for water sports, snow, or long highway driving may prefer a polarized alternative.

Can I wear Bates sunglasses over my prescription glasses or get them fitted with prescription lenses?

Not over prescription glasses, but they can often be fitted with prescription lenses by an optician. Bates is a small rectangular frame with an eye size of 48.5mm, a 21mm bridge, and a 32.5mm eye depth, so it is too compact to comfortably fit over most standard prescription frames. If you want prescription sunglasses, an optician can determine whether the Bates frame can accept prescription lenses or if a clip-in solution will work. This frame suits people who want a single pair of prescription sunglasses for daily wear. As a limitation, retrofit options depend on the specific lens prescription and the frame’s construction, so check with your local optician before purchasing.

How durable are Bates sunglasses for everyday use and travel?

They are durable enough for everyday use and travel when handled with normal care. Bates is made from rated polycarbonate, a lightweight material known for impact resistance and flexibility, which helps the frames withstand daily knocks and drops better than brittle plastics. The compact dimensions—48.5mm eye size and 145mm temples—also mean fewer stress points compared with larger, heavier frames. For real-world longevity, store them in a case, clean lenses with a microfiber cloth, and avoid abrasive surfaces, since polycarbonate can still scratch. People who travel frequently or commute will appreciate the balance of toughness and low weight. If you need extreme ruggedness for high-impact activities, consider sport-specific eyewear with reinforced frames and shatterproof lenses.

What face shapes work best with the Bates rectangular frame and how should I style them?

Bates flatters most face shapes but is especially good for round and oval faces. The small rectangular silhouette and sharp edges create contrast that helps elongate and define rounder features, while the modernized wayfarer proportions complement the balance of oval faces. With specs like a 48.5mm eye size and 21mm bridge, the frame reads as compact and refined, which also suits heart-shaped faces looking to add structure. For styling, the smoke and jade colorway pairs well with neutral or earthy tones and adds a subtle pop when worn with denim or minimal tailored outfits. If your face is very wide or you prefer full coverage, a larger frame might be a better fit.

Bates Sunglasses in smoke and jade

DESCRIPTION

Meet Bates, a small rectangular sunglass frame with sharp edges and modernised wayfarer proportions. It defines an everyday frame that elevates your outfit while providing UVA/UVB protection. If your sunglasses feel oversized or dated, Bates offers a slimmer contemporary silhouette compared to classic wayfarers. This item was produced by Szade, founded in 2020 in Melbourne, creating sustainable sunglasses for a global, inclusive community.

Material: Rated polycarbonate

Specs: Eye size 48.5mm, bridge width 21mm, temple length 145mm, eye depth 32.5mm

Fit: Regular

Key benefits include lightweight durable construction; jade-tinted lenses that block UVA/UVB; compact proportions that flatter most face shapes; a regular fit suitable for everyday wear; suitable for commuting and travel; easy to clean and pair with outfits.

Protection: Little reduction of sunglare. Blocks UVA/UVB. Provides limited glare reduction and is not a substitute for polarized lenses so choose polarized options if you need strong glare control.

Colors: Smoke frame with jade-tinted lenses

SHIPPING & RETURNS

Orders are processed within 1–2 business days and ship from our San Francisco hub. Standard U.S. delivery usually takes 3–5 business days.
Need to make a return? No stress, we offer quick and easy returns through our partner app, Redo. Click here to start your return.

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Bates Sunglasses in smoke and jade

$64.00

Size One Size

One Size