There are many things to think about when choosing a pair of glasses, not least of all is what they're made of. This is not only important aesthetically but also in terms of comfortability and especially for those who suffer from allergies. In this blog, we'll walk you through how to choose the right frame material for your eyeglasses as well as their pros and cons.
Metal Frames -
Metal frames offer a lightweight and durable option for those who are a little less kind on their glasses. These frames are able to hold their shape well and offer easy adjustment if necessary. Unlike plastic frames, metal glasses come with nose pads which are great for getting that perfect fit.
Titanium
Titanium frames are lightweight and robust frames that come in a variety of styles and colours. These corrosive-resistant frames are popular amongst men, in particular, offering strong square and rectangular designs perfect for faces of a similar shape. A great bonus of titanium glasses is their hypoallergenic qualities. They make great options for those that suffer from allergies to other metals. This material can be found in a variety of brands' collections including Ray-Ban, Tommy Hilfiger and Oakley.
These qualities do come at a price though. Titanium glasses are often more expensive than other metal frames. The price is usually worth it in the long run but this is something to keep in mind. Titanium frames are usually thinner than most frames so they may not be the ideal choice for those looking for bold and eye-catching glasses. These are both things to think about when choosing the right frame material for your eyeglasses.
Memory Titanium
Memory Titanium or memory metal is a titanium alloy made up of roughly 50% nickel and 50% titanium. This combination makes these frames malleable and extremely flexible whilst still being able to return to their original shape. These frames are great for those who are rough on their glasses or those looking for glasses that can keep up with an active lifestyle.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel glasses offer a more affordable version of titanium frames. Much like titanium glasses, stainless steel frames are strong, lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Stainless steel lacks the flexibility and malleability of memory metals but offers a more robust and sturdy alternative to plastic frames. Stainless steel frames are a great option for those looking for strength and stability but at a lower cost than titanium and memory metal glasses. They might not be quite as sturdy or as flexible as titanium frames but they offer comfortable, lightweight and long-lasting frames, perfect for any occasion.
Plastic Frames -
Plastic frames are the most commonly used and affordable material for glasses. They offer a comfortable and stylish option with more room for unique designs and colour combinations. Plastic frames feature a moulded nose bridge that can be more comfortable, especially over a long period of time. This nose bridge does, however, lack the ability of quick adjustment that comes with nose pads.
Acetate
Old plastic frames were often found to be brittle and prone to heat damage and becoming misshaped. Some frames would also begin to deteriorate after a few years of use. Acetate, also known as cellulose acetate, does not have any of these issues. It is a more robust and durable plastic but still maintains its lightweight and comfortable characteristics. It is important to note that these frames arent as elastic as other plastic frames and can get out of shape in extreme heat.
Acetate frames are easy to mould into a variety of shapes and are a great canvas for stylish and eye-catching colour schemes. Acetate is a great material for creating transparent or crystal frames, these are popular in a variety of brands across the world of eyewear.
Metal/Plastic -
Combining metal and plastic gives glasses wearers the best of both worlds. A sturdy and durable metal skeleton is enveloped in stylish and comfortable plastic. This gives manufacturers the ability to create more unique and eye-catching designs without sacrificing strength or durability.
Whatever material you choose, it is important to ensure you are comfortable. This should be the main consideration when choosing glasses, especially for those that wear them daily or for long periods of time. There are a variety of materials and combinations out there so you're sure to find the perfect frames for you.
Whatever frame material suits your look and lifetysle, Spex4less are sure to have the perfect glasses or sunglasses for you!