One of the most interesting arguments for those who have to buy a new pair of glasses is the type of material that best suits their needs. The decision regarding which eyewear material to buy depends on the type of life you lead and on factors of sensitivity or allergies to specific types of materials. Let’s see, therefore, which are the most used ones for the frames and the novelties of the last few years.
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Plastic and fiberglass frames
One of the most common materials in frames is plastic. Extremely ductile, it is also particularly resistant and inexpensive.
Among the variants of this material is acetate, historically the most used to produce eyewear. It stands out for being easily workable and very resistant. Thanks to the heat, it can be shaped and adapted to any type of face.
These characteristics also make it easy to repair, a factor that represents an important strength. Example of eyewear made with this material is the Seeoo Classic, which comes with an acetate casing embellished with a steel plate. There is also an eco-sustainable acetate on the market, i.e. a bioplastic obtained from cotton and wood, with some plasticizing elements and pigments of natural origin.
Another material of plastic origin is nylon, a resin that appears very similar to acetate. It stands out for its extreme lightness and is very resistant to solvents. It is mainly used for sports glasses and sunglasses.
Carbon fiber also falls into this category. It is obtained from graphite and a very thin wire which, after being crossed, forms a fabric. It is known as the most resistant material on the market, which at the same time has excellent qualities of flexibility and extreme lightness. The only downside is the high price.
Another very particular material is glass fiber which is obtained by fusing silica with other minerals. A very particular example of eyewear made with this material is the Seeoo One which is characterized both by its extreme resistance to corrosion and atmospheric agents, and by its extreme adaptability and elasticity.
Metal frames
Metal is another widely used material for making eyewear. One of its advantages is to resist shocks. It is, therefore, a type of resistant frame, but which does not lend itself to particular processes. The Reader Slim model is made with a completely metal frame: it is, in fact, thin and light.
One of the main metals used in the eyewear sector is steel, which is very strong and durable over time. It is possible to obtain steel glasses of different colors, to which it is possible to add elements in acetate and even precious stones. Examples of frames made with this material are Seeoo Mona and Seeoo Leon which have a spring hinge without screws which allows for excellent flexibility. In addition, the steel makes them very light.
Another metal widely used in the optical field is titanium. Of natural origin, it is recognizable by its dark gray colour, even if by now the frames of this kind are available in various colours. In addition to being particularly light, titanium has great resistance, a feature that makes these frames indestructible. As with carbon, the only disadvantage in this case is the high cost.
Materials of natural origin
Natural materials are difficult to work with. However, eyewear made with this type of material stands out for its extreme uniqueness.
Very fashionable now are wooden glasses, an elegant, light and eco-sustainable material. The only drawback is the lack of resistance. Some manufacturers, in fact, decide to insert a steel core inside these frames which increases their resistance. In order not to get damaged in contact with water or humidity, these frames are treated with specific products.
Another natural material for the frames is bamboo, very resistant and waterproof.
And which material do you prefer and use?