How to Choose a Spectacle Cord
Updated September 2026
Spectacle cords are a simple way to keep reading glasses close at hand when you are not wearing them. They can be particularly useful if you regularly put your glasses on and take them off throughout the day, or if you simply prefer not to leave them on a desk or table.
There are several different styles available, and the best choice depends on how and where you intend to use them.
Standard Spectacle Cords
A standard spectacle cord attaches to the arms of your glasses and allows them to hang comfortably around your neck when not in use.
For everyday use, the most important things to look for are a secure attachment, a comfortable length and a lightweight cord that does not pull on the glasses.
Our Gorilla Grip spectacle cords use a non-slip attachment designed to grip the arms firmly. They are available in a range of colours and are a practical choice for everyday reading glasses.
A simple and practical glasses cord that I've stocked for many years. What I particularly like about these cords is the rubber 'Gorilla Grip' at each end, which grips securely onto the arms of your glasses and helps prevent the cord from slipping off.
Lightweight and comfortable to wear, they're available in a wide choice of colours and keep your glasses conveniently around your neck when you're not using them.
Decorative Glasses Chains
A decorative glasses chain works in much the same way as a cord but gives a slightly different appearance.
These can be useful if you want something that looks more like an accessory while still keeping your glasses close at hand. The main thing to check is that the attachment fits securely around the arms of your glasses.
Sports and Secure-Fit Cords
For more active use, a closer-fitting sports-style cord can help hold glasses more securely in place.
These are useful where movement is involved and you want the glasses to stay closer to the head rather than simply hang around the neck.
Floating Cords
A floating spectacle cord is designed for use around water.
These are especially useful for boating, fishing, swimming or holidays, where dropping glasses into water is a real possibility. The cord is designed to provide some buoyancy, although it is still sensible to check that the glasses are securely attached before use.
Monocle Cords
A monocle uses a different type of cord from ordinary spectacles. Rather than attaching to two temple arms, the cord connects directly to the monocle and provides a simple way to keep it secure when it is not in use.
Our fine black monocle cord is designed specifically for this purpose and works with the monocles in our range.
What Should You Look For?
When choosing a spectacle cord, I would focus on a few practical points:
whether the attachment fits the arms of your glasses securely;
whether you want the glasses to hang loosely or sit more closely;
the weight and feel of the cord;
whether you need something for everyday use, sport or water;
and, of course, whether you like the appearance.
There is no single “best” spectacle cord. The right one is simply the one that suits how you use your glasses.
Our Spectacle Cords
We stock a small range of spectacle cords and chains for different uses, including everyday cords, decorative chains, sports-style cords and floating cords.
If you are unsure which type would work best with your glasses, please get in touch and I’ll be happy to help.