XL Fit Guide: Measure Your Head + Frame Widths (2025)

TL;DR

• Measure temple-to-temple and brow width in millimeters; match your number to frame width.

• For big heads, 149–155 mm frame widths with spring hinges and wider temples usually fit best.

• High-wrap XL frames improve coverage and stability; choose lens tints by your light conditions.

Intro

If most sunglasses pinch your temples, ride your cheeks, or feel toy-sized, this guide is for you. Below you’ll learn a simple, repeatable way to measure your head, match those numbers to frame widths, and pick the right lens tint for your light conditions. The quick version: measure a straight line across your brow (above the eyebrows) and temple-to-temple, note the number in millimeters, then pick XL frames that meet or exceed that width. Prioritize spring hinges (comfort), rubberized nose/temple grips (no-slip), and enough wrap or lens height to block side and under-eye glare. If you’re on the water, get polarized; if you’re on a job site, look for ANSI Z87/Z87+ impact protection. When you’re ready to shop, head to Detour’s XL collection (link provided once in “Shop the Collection” below).

How to Choose XL / Big-Head Sunglasses

Fit & Coverage

• Measure in mm. Use a soft tape or ruler across your brow and temple-to-temple. If you’re near or above ~150 mm, XL frames will likely feel better than standard.

• Match frame width. Look for frames listed as XL or with widths around 149–155 mm. These add frontal width, longer temples, and often higher lens stacks so you get comfort without pressure points.

• Coverage matters. High-wrap frames block peripheral wind and glare and help with light leaking in from the sides. Taller lenses reduce under-eye glare—great for sunny commutes, water, snow, and job sites.

Lens Tints & Conditions

• Gray / Jet Black: Neutral color, best for bright mid-day sun, beach, and wide-open water.

• Blue / Gold / Silver mirrors: Mirrors layered over a gray base curb surface glare on water, sand, snow, and glass—ideal for high-glare environments.

• Brown / Amber / Copper: Add contrast and depth; excellent for mixed light, overcast, or woodland terrain.

• Green: Balanced, relaxing view for everyday use; solid “do-it-all” choice.

• Clear / Low-VLT options: Indoor, night, shop floors, and safety scenarios—pair with ANSI Z87/Z87+ frames when impact rating is required.

Grip, Weight & Comfort

• Rubberized contact points on nose and temples keep frames planted when you sweat or move.

• Spring hinges reduce clamping force so wide heads feel good all day.

• Hat/helmet friendly designs (especially wraps) minimize bounce for running, riding, or yard work.

Editor’s Top Picks (6 Products)

• Big Kahuna XL — Matte Black — Jet Black Polarized — ANSI Z87 — Maximum width and wrap for big heads; impact-rated for shop days and weekend projects.

• Big Kahuna XL — Driftwood — Jet Black Polarized — Same roomy comfort with a hand-finished wood-grain look; your everyday bright-sun cruiser.

• Breach XL — Matte Black — 24K Gold Polarized — ANSI Z87+ — High-wrap stability for wide heads; polarized with Z87+ so it pulls double duty from job site to boat dock.

• Coastal XL — Gold — Jet Black Polarized — Aviator style that finally fits; scaled for big heads without cheek rub or temple pinch—great for driving and daily wear.

• Cabana XL — Matte Black — Green Machine Polarized — Soft-touch comfort with spring hinges; green base for easy, all-day viewing and balanced contrast.

• Surge XL — Matte Black — Electric Blue — Adjustable arms and nose pads for a locked-in, no-bounce fit; Z87+ build for extra protection during high-motion days.

Compare at a Glance

Pro Tips & Use-Case Scenarios

• Pressure points behind the ears? Choose spring-hinge XL frames and adjust temple angle slightly for a lighter clamp.

• On the water at noon: Start with gray + blue/gold mirror to tame surface glare and preserve color accuracy.

• Cloudy or wooded trails: Brown/amber/copper bases pop contrast for roots, rocks, and shaded roads.

• Desk to job site: If you move between office and shop, consider a polarized daily tint plus a clear Z87/Z87+ pair for indoor tasks.

• No-bounce runs and rides: Adjustable arms and nose pads (like Surge XL) help you fine-tune fit under a cap or helmet.

FAQs

How do I know if I need XL frames?
If your temple-to-temple or brow measurement is near or above ~150 mm, standard frames often feel tight. XL adds width and longer temples for comfort.

What frame width should I look for on big heads?
Many wide heads land in the ~149–155 mm range; check product pages marked “XL.”

Do any XL sunglasses come with safety ratings?
Yes. Some Detour XL models are ANSI Z87 or Z87+ (impact-rated). Look for Z87/Z87+ in the title or specs.

What lens color works best in bright, open sun?
Gray or gray-based mirrors (blue/gold/silver) reduce harsh glare and keep colors true.

I want an aviator look that actually fits my big head—what should I try?
Coastal XL is an upscaled aviator built specifically for large and XL heads.

How can I prevent slipping during sweaty runs?
Pick frames with rubber nose/temple grips and an adjustable fit (Surge XL).

Can I get clear protective lenses in an XL frame?
Yes—look for clear lens options in Z87/Z87+ XL frames for indoor or low-light work.

Shop the Collection

Ready to dial in your fit? Explore Detour’s XL lineup here: XL Sunglasses for Big Heads 

About Detour

• Affordable polarized eyewear with UV400 protection, from small to XL fits.

• ANSI Z87/Z87+ options for job-site-ready impact protection in select models.

• Practical tech that matters: spring hinges, rubberized grips, and coatings designed for sweat and saltwater.