An enhanced performance earstem for eyeglasses is provided that can incorporate one or more flex zones or points along the length of the earstem. In some embodiments, the earstem can comprise an elongate body having an anterior end and a posterior end and at least a first segment and a second segment on the body having a first flex zone or point disposed at least partially therebetween. A center of the first flex zone or point can be within a given range from the anterior end. Further, some embodiments can provide differential flexibility along the length of the earstem. For example, the body of the earstem can have plurality of relatively flexible zones, and each flexible zone can be separated from an adjacent flexible zone by a relatively rigid zone. In this regard, the relatively flexible zones can have different stiffnesses.