Frame Materials: A Guide to Eyewear Construction

A plant-based plastic known for its strength, flexibility, and wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes.

Pros:

• Lightweight and comfortable
• Vibrant colors and patterns
• Hypoallergenic
• Can be adjusted for fit

Cons:

• Can become brittle with age
• May fade over time with sun exposure
• Less flexible than some materials

Best For:

• Fashion-forward designs
• Bold color options
• Those with sensitive skin

Maintenance:

• Clean with mild soap and warm water
• Avoid high heat (hot cars, hair dryers)
• Store in a case when not in use

Mixtures of metals (often nickel, copper, and other elements) that create durable, lightweight frames.

Pros:

• Lightweight and thin profiles
• Adjustable nose pads and temples
• Corrosion-resistant
• Available in many finishes

Cons:

• May cause allergic reactions (nickel content)
• Can bend out of shape
• May be less comfortable in extreme temperatures

Best For:

• Rimless and semi-rimless styles
• Thin, minimalist designs
• Those who need frequent adjustments

Maintenance:

• Clean with lens cleaner and microfiber cloth
• Avoid saltwater exposure
• Have professional adjustments

A premium metal known for being incredibly lightweight, strong, and corrosion-resistant.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight
• Very strong and durable
• Hypoallergenic
• Corrosion-resistant

Cons:

• More expensive than other materials
• Limited color options
• Less adjustable than some materials

Best For:

• Those with active lifestyles
• People with metal allergies
• Those wanting long-lasting frames

Maintenance:

• Clean with mild soap and warm water
• Professional adjustments recommended
• Minimal special care required

An alloy known for strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion.

Pros:

• Very durable and strong
• Resistant to corrosion
• More affordable than titanium
• Available in various finishes

Cons:

• Heavier than titanium
• May contain nickel (potential allergen)
• Limited color options

Best For:

• Durability at a more moderate price
• Clean, modern aesthetic
• Most everyday uses

Maintenance:

• Clean with mild soap and warm water
• Wipe dry to prevent water spots
• Regular professional adjustments

A thermoplastic material that's extremely flexible, lightweight, and durable.

Pros:

• Highly flexible and bendable
• Very lightweight
• Impact-resistant
• Holds its shape well

Cons:

• Limited color options
• Less premium appearance than some materials
• May not be suitable for high-fashion styles

Best For:

• Sports and active lifestyles
• Children's eyewear
• Those prioritizing durability and comfort

Maintenance:

• Clean with mild soap and warm water
• Highly resistant to most damage
• Can withstand temperature changes

Natural wood creates unique, eco-friendly frames with distinctive grain patterns.

Pros:

• Unique appearance
• Eco-friendly option
• Lightweight
• Each frame is one-of-a-kind

Cons:

• More fragile than other materials
• Can be affected by moisture
• Limited adjustability
• Often more expensive

Best For:

• Distinctive, natural aesthetic
• Environmentally conscious consumers
• Those wanting a unique frame

Maintenance:

• Keep away from excessive moisture
• Clean with a dry or slightly damp cloth
• Occasional treatment with wood care products