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A bayonet temple is a specialized spectacle arm that extends straight back from the frame and then bends slightly downward at the very end. The arm is often flat and thin. This design is similar to a straight temple but has a slight downward bend to offer a bit more secure contact.
read more about bayonet temple on eyeglasses ...The bayonet temple was specifically designed for military pilots. Its flat, straight profile was designed to slide easily into place underneath a flight helmet or headset without creating uncomfortable pressure points. The slight bend at the end helped the arm stabilize against the pilot's head inside the helmet.
Like the straight temple, the bayonet relies on horizontal pressure against the sides of the head. However, the thin, flat design spreads the pressure evenly. The small bend at the tip helps prevent the glasses from sliding forward during head movements.
The bayonet temple is suited for people who wear tight-fitting headgear, helmets, or protective gear. It is also a good choice for people with very short hair or receding hairlines where a traditional skull temple might not grip securely.
If you wear specialized gear that requires a secure fit, the bayonet temple is the perfect backup style. It allows you to quickly switch to corrective glasses without needing to remove or adjust safety equipment, ensuring continuous visual protection alongside your contact lenses.
It is still used, mainly on safety glasses and some sport-utility frames, but the skull temple is far more common for everyday wear.
They are typically found on thin metal frames, as the flat, thin design is needed for sliding under headgear.
The angle of the bend at the tip and the overall width of the arm are adjusted to fit the wearer's head width.
Bayonet temples are designed specifically for pilots and individuals wearing flight helmets. If you use these for everyday wear and they feel loose, you may need a "skull" conversion. Improperly secured frames can fall during sudden movements, posing a safety risk.
FAA. Vision and Flight Safety (faa.gov). 2024.
The Vision Council. Specialty Eyewear Designs (thevisioncouncil.org). 2024.
ABDO. Practical Dispensing for Pilots (abdo.org.uk). 2023.
Review of Optometry. Frame Selection for High-Activity Users (reviewofoptometry.com). 2024.