Sunglass Retainers and Straps Explained

A ten dollar retainer prevents most sunglasses losses, which makes it one of the highest-return accessories available. The types are not interchangeable, and matching one to your activity is most of getting it right.

1. 1

   Floating foam: for water

   Thick neoprene or foam retainers keep sunglasses afloat if they come off over water. If you paddle, fish, or boat, this is the only type that matters, because a sinking pair is a lost pair regardless of how well the strap held.

2. 2

   Adjustable cord: for hiking and general use

   A thin cord with a sliding cinch does two jobs: it catches the glasses when they come off, and cinched tight it actively holds them against your head. That second function is what most people miss — a loose retainer only catches, a cinched one prevents.

3. 3

   Silicone temple grips: for minimal bulk

   Small sleeves that slide onto temple arms and add friction against skin. They reduce slipping without adding anything around your neck, which suits people who dislike the feel of a cord. They do nothing if the glasses come off entirely.

4. 4

   Built-in cord: retention as the design

   Cord-arm sunglasses treat retention as structural rather than as an accessory, which means there is nothing to add, lose, or wear out. If you are buying a retainer because you keep losing sunglasses, this is worth considering instead.

   Are Ombraz worth itBuilt-in retention examined

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5. 5

   Fit the retainer properly

   Most people wear retainers far too loose, which turns an active retention device into a passive catch. Cinch it so the glasses stay put when you shake your head, then loosen slightly for comfort. If it swings freely, it is not doing half its job.

   Slipping fixesGrip materials and technique

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Retainer Types