Frame Materials

Choosing a frame material that suits your purpose is critical as it plays a huge role in the comfort, safety and functionality of your glasses. Different materials lend themselves to different functions, price ranges and styles, and with each comes distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Metal

Metal is one commonly used material in the manufacturing of eyeglass frames due to its malleability, corrosion resistance, and ease of adjustability, making it very easy to tailor to many face shapes and frame styles. Metal frames typically tend to be more expensive, less durable and are not ideal for action sports.  They hold their shape well, yet careful handling is still necessary to avoid bending.  Metal frames are usually made of Monel (a metal alloy containing 2/3 nickel and 1/3 copper) that is corrosion resistant and sturdy; however, aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, cobalt, nickel silver (German Silver), and phosphor bronze are popular, also.  Metal frames can be made of colored metal, or be color coated; giving color options beyond base metal colors.  For people allergic to certain metals (typically nickel), choose a hypoallergenic option such as titanium or stainless steel, if you're set on wearing a metal frame.

Nylon

Nylon frames should be your go-to for sports and performance activities. Nylon frames are very resistant to temperature fluctuations, and remain super flexible while still retaining the stiffness required for safety. Nylon frames tend to be less expensive, lightweight and stronger than traditional metal frames.   Virtually unbreakable. nylon glass frames are  lightweight and flexible, but frames are limited to opaque colors.

Titanium

Generally found in higher-end glasses, Titanium frames are durable, scratch resistant, strong, lightweight, flexible, and rust-resistant.  It is difficult to color, so titanium frames come in a limited range of colors.  These frames are great for an active lifestyle, or those who require thicker lenses. Titanium is an awesome metal that many designer frames are made of; however, it can also be expensive.

Polycarbonate

This versatile, tough plastic offers serious impact resistance and can be found in many sport and safety glasses. Despite their durability, they tend to be rigid frames and are not very flexible. If you have children, a polycarbonate frame is a good choice for them as the frames can take a beating.

Acetate

Acetate is a plastic itself, but it is a little different. Compared to a standard plastic frame (usually Acrylic or Polyurethane), Acetate frames are stronger, more flexible and generally lighter. Acetate frames can come in a huge variety of colors and textures, and since the color is imbedded in the material itself instead of painted on, the color tends to stay.

Plastic

Glasses can be made out of a wide variety of plastic frames, from acrylic to polyurethane. Plastic frames are generally the cheapest frames available and can be a great option if price is an issue.  Plastic frames are popular because of the vast assortment of colors, textures, patterns, and qualities available.  Plastics vary, making plastic frames suitable for a variety of lifestyles and activities, like sports.  ZYL or cellulose acetate is the most common type plastic used for frames because of its versatility.  It is a composite of wood flakes, cottonseed fibers, stabilizers and plasticizers.  ZYL can be damaged by ultraviolet radiation, perspiration, body oil and cosmetics, yet is still the plastic of choice. 

Plastic frames typically do not bend the way metal fames can; however, they can become brittle and discolor with age or excessive heat, so buying a quality plastic is important, especially if you plan on wearing them for a long time.