Plastic vs metal sunglasses, which fit you best?

When shopping for eyewear, choosing between plastic vs. metal sunglasses is always a part of the debate. It can be confusing to pick one over the other because they both have pros and cons to consider. Adding to the perplexity is the fact that these frames come in a variety of designs. So, which one should you pick?

What are the types of frame material?

In general, eyeglasses are made of metal or plastic, or a combination of both. What suits you best varies depending on your personal preference, lifestyle, and situation.

Plastic frame materials

1. Zyl or cellulose acetate. Inexpensive and lightweight, zylonite or Zyl is one of the easiest frames to adjust.

2. Blended nylon. Safety or sports frames are often made of blended nylon. It is the common material for wraparound designs because it is easy to mold.

3. Cellulose acetate propionate. This material is lightweight, hypoallergenic, and softer than other frames.

4. Optyl. This branded epoxy resin is very easy to mold when heated, allowing the optician to customize your frame.

Metal frame materials

1. Titanium. This metal is hypoallergenic, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant. It's suitable for people of all ages, especially children.

2. Beryllium. People who often work in and around saltwater can choose beryllium. It is strong and flexible, making it easy to adjust.

3. Monel. This material is a combination of several metals and is coated to prevent allergic reactions from its components like nickel.

4. Stainless steel. Although light and strong, stainless-steel frames tend to be heavier compared to titanium.

5. Aluminum. High-end frames use aluminum because it boasts top-grade flexibility, strength, and corrosion resistance.

6. Flexon. This metal is a titanium alloy and comes back to its original shape even after twisting or bending.

Plastic sunglasses

When it's plastic vs. metal sunglasses, the former is a popular choice for wearers who want bolder and thicker frames. This type of sunglasses boasts a broad range of styles and designs that follow the current trends. Compared to metal frames, plastic sunglasses are more rigid and aren't prone to deformation.

Plastic frames are versatile and can be worn on many occasions or everyday use. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of wearing plastic sunglasses.

Advantages of plastic sunglasses

1. Most plastic-made eyeglasses have a molded bridge instead of a nose pad, which could offer better comfort when wearing. Nose pads tend to dig into either side of the nose and can even cause scratches over time.

2. Thick plastic frames make a bold fashion statement. It is also suitable for children because they can come in fun and colorful designs.

3. This type of specs is hypoallergenic. Anyone with metal allergies can safely wear plastic ones and not worry about developing skin irritations.

4. If you are near-sighted, hiding your bulky lens is possible with a plastic frame. It has thick edges that block your lenses from sight.

5. Plastic frames are more affordable and cost-effective.

Disadvantages of plastic sunglasses

1. These sunglasses tend to be heavy and loosen over time, so you might have to frequently visit your optical shop to have them adjusted.

2. Most plastic frames fade and discolor as time goes by, making them look worn out and older than they really are.

3. You must avoid leaving your plastic sunglasses in your car when it's parked out in the sun. Heat can potentially deform them.

4. They don't come in a semi-rimless design.

Metal sunglasses

The minimalist style of metal sunglasses appeals to people who want thin, lightweight, and smart-looking frames. Contact lens wearers can appreciate this type of glasses because the slim profile can make it seem like you're not wearing anything at all.

Unlike plastic frames, metal specs are available in rimless and semi-rimless designs, giving more variety for people who love a simple yet stylish look.

Advantages of metal sunglasses

1. Metal frames give off a conservative appearance and don't block your best facial features.

2. These sunglasses are bendable and thus can be finely adjusted if they feel loose. You can adjust the nose pads on the specs so that they always sit properly on your face.

3. You will have less trips to your optician because metal frames often hold the adjustment better than plastic ones.

4. If you are always on the go, metal sunglasses will suit you since it's lightweight and flexible.

Disadvantages of metal sunglasses

1. If you have metal allergies, you must avoid using metal frames at all costs.

2. The hinges on this type of specs often break easily. Once they do, you must replace your glasses because this problem is unrepairable.

3. Metal-made frames have lesser design and color choices than plastic glasses.

4. Your metal sunglasses should suit temple measurements properly; otherwise, you can develop headaches and scratches due to poorly fitting metal glasses.

What should you choose?

Plastic vs metal sunglasses can have a varying answer depending on several factors, but mostly, it's your personal preference that matters. You can review these pros and cons to help you decide on your purchase!

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