Whether you're constantly balancing glasses on your head, worried about dropping expensive sunglasses, or forever misplacing your reading glasses, a glasses strap is a simple accessory that can make everyday life easier.

Bowman Leather Glasses Strap — Bowman Leather Chestnut Sunglasses Strap

What Is a Glasses Strap?

Glasses retainer, glasses cord, eyewear strap - there are many names given to this simple accessory, but they all serve the simple purpose of keeping your glasses or sunglasses handy when you don’t need them on.

They normally attach via a simple silicone band that slides over the arms of the glasses. The band is grippy and has an adjustable metal slider which can be tightened to suit the thickness of your glasses.

Why use one?

Personally, prior to having a strap for my sunglasses, I was always misplacing them.

If I had kept them on my person they were normally resting on my head - stretching the arms and constantly falling down. If I put them in my bag or pocket they’d get squished or scratched and putting them in a glasses case seemed a little too much effort considering I’d probably want them again soon.

Having a glasses strap just makes life that little bit easier. My friends and family, who had to listen to me rave about this new discovery, soon followed suit. They added a strap to their reading glasses and found them useful with a number of hobbies such as photography and hiking.

But do they look good?

Perhaps your only experience of glasses straps have been the big, chunky nylon ones. Perfectly practical and functional but arguably less stylish. However, this is no longer your only choice. Sleek, minimalist leather straps look modern, clean and premium, rope straps offer a similar minimalist look, and the beaded options can give off that ‘librarian chic’ if that is what you’re going for.

A glasses strap has become a stylish accessory and they’ll be one to suit your own aesthetic.

How to attach a glasses strap

Attaching a glasses strap is quick and easy. Simply slide the silicone loop onto each arm of your glasses, then pull the metal coil towards the arm until the loop fits securely. Repeat on the other side, ensuring both loops are snug but not overly tight. Once attached, your glasses will stay safely within reach while remaining comfortable to wear.

Why leather is a popular choice for a glasses strap?

If you're looking for a premium, minimalist glasses strap, leather is a great choice. Its simple, timeless design complements any style of glasses and looks just as good with casual clothing as it does with smarter outfits.

Leather is also naturally strong and durable, making it ideal for everyday use. Unlike many synthetic materials, it develops character over time, so your glasses strap will look even better with age.

The type of leather you choose matters though. At Bowman Leather, we use premium British oak bark-tanned leather, renowned for its strength and durability. Combined with traditional hand-stitching, it creates a glasses strap that's built to last and able to withstand everyday wear and the elements.

Shop Our Glasses Strap

Frequently asked questions:

Yes, Bowman Leather glasses straps are designed to fit the vast majority of glasses and sunglasses. The adjustable metal coil allows you to tighten the soft silicone loop around the arm of your glasses, creating a secure and comfortable fit.
Simply slide the silicone loop onto the arm of your glasses, then pull the metal coil until the loop fits snugly. This adjustable design makes the strap compatible with most frame styles, helping to keep your glasses safe and close at hand.
Absolutely! Glasses straps are perfect for sunglasses. Whether you're moving between indoor and outdoor spaces, dealing with changeable weather, or simply taking your sunglasses on and off throughout the day, a glasses strap keeps them safely within reach.
Instead of balancing your sunglasses on your head or putting them in a pocket or bag where they could become scratched, a glasses strap lets them hang comfortably around your neck until you need them again. It's a simple way to keep your sunglasses secure, accessible and protected.
Yes. A well-made leather glasses strap is designed to provide years of reliable use. At Bowman Leather, we craft our glasses straps from premium British oak bark-tanned leather, renowned for its exceptional strength, durability and timeless character. Each strap is also carefully hand-stitched, ensuring a high-quality finish and lasting durability.
Our leather is made to withstand everyday wear, including exposure to sunlight, perspiration and the occasional splash of water. If your glasses strap does become wet, simply allow it to air dry naturally at room temperature. With minimal care, the leather will continue to perform well and develop a rich patina over time, making it even more distinctive with age.
No. A quality glasses strap with soft silicone loops is designed to grip the arms of your glasses securely without causing damage. The flexible silicone helps prevent scratches while keeping the strap comfortably in place.
In fact, using a glasses strap can help protect your eyewear. By keeping your glasses safely around your neck when you're not wearing them, it reduces the chances of dropping them, placing them on rough surfaces, or storing them loose in a pocket or bag where the lenses and frames can become scratched. It can also help minimise unnecessary stress on the arms of your glasses by reducing the need to repeatedly remove and tuck them into clothing or pockets.

What Is a Glasses Strap and Why Do You Need One?