Screws being tightened on a metal sunglass frame

Replacement nose pads

Select the type of nose pads you need

Push-in nose pads

Push-in nose pads attach through a small rectangular opening on the nose stem. They are slightly tapered, so once they go in, they stay there. If there is no screw holding the pad in place, this is likely your fitting. Do not confuse them with System 3 pads. Push-in pads usually use a smaller opening.

Screw-in nose pads

Screw-in nose pads attach to the frame with a small screw. Look closely at the nose stem. If a small screw is holding the pad in place, this is your fitting.

Clip-on / crimp nose pads

Clip-on or crimp nose pads have two metal arms that wrap around the nose-pad stem on the frame. If the original pads are mounted that way, this is your fitting.

System 3 Nose Pads

System 3 nose pads also fit into a rectangular opening and stay in place because they are tapered, not because of a screw. The difference is the opening. System 3 uses a wider slot than a standard push-in pad. If you are not sure, compare the slot on your frame.

Post-mount nose pads

Post-mount nose pads slide onto a small peg or post built into the frame. Check the existing pads before you order, so you know this is the fitting you have.

How to order your nose pads

First, work out how your current nose pads are mounted. Removing one pad is the easiest way to see the fitting and measure it.

Choose the matching type to see what we have available. Contact us if you cannot find the right one.

Installing Screw-In Nose Pads

Loosen the small screw (usually 1 mm) on the nose stem just enough to release the old pad, but do not remove it completely. These tiny screws are easy to lose if dropped. Insert the new nose pad in the same orientation as the original, align the hole with the stem receiver and gently retighten the screw.

Installing Push-In Nose Pads

Start by removing the old pad while firmly supporting the nose stem with your other hand. Supporting the stem is important, as too much pressure can bend or damage it. If needed, use a toothpick or optical screwdriver to help push the nose-pad tab through the receiver.

To install the replacement, press it firmly into the receiver while supporting the back of the stem. If it does not seat fully, wrap the jaws of a pair of pliers in a soft cloth and apply gentle pressure until the pad is securely in place.

Installing Rubber Molded Nose Pads

Rubber molded nose pads are similar to push-in pads. Most clip into a receiver on the frame. Pull the old pad off firmly and push the new one onto the same receiver.

The difficult part is that many of these pads are made for one frame, so a universal replacement is hard to find. If the model is still current, contact the manufacturer with your model number and ask whether they can supply the original pads.

Where to Get Replacement Nose Pads

Sunglass Fix carries an extensive range of nose pads and other repair accessories which can be found here.

Alternatively, many optometrists carry nose pads. Or your original sunglass manufacturer may be able to help.