Cellulose acetate
Rich colour and layered patterns, with shape and fit to consider.
THE CLEAR VISION GUIDE
Frame material comparison
Explore eight frame materials, compare their characteristics and learn what to check for fit, adjustment and care.
Choose two to compare
Use the comparison buttons below. Changing a filter keeps your selection.
Plastics
Polyamide / TR90
Low-density polymers often chosen for light, resilient designs.
Polyetherimide (PEI)
An engineering plastic with useful stiffness and heat resistance.
Metals
Titanium
Corrosion resistance and possibilities for fine metal construction.
Beta titanium
Titanium alloys used for springy, fine-section designs.
Stainless steel
Fine wire or sheet designs with grade-dependent corrosion resistance.
Aluminium alloys
Low-density metal with construction-specific adjustment limits.
Composites
Carbon-fibre composites
Fibre and resin combine; lay-up and connections shape the result.
Before you choose
Flexible, stiff or tough?
Elasticity is recovery after unloading; stiffness is resistance to deformation; toughness concerns energy absorbed before breaking. These are different properties, so a flexible frame is not automatically unbreakable.
Read the whole construction
Check the front, temples, hinges and nose pads separately. Total weight and comfort also depend on frame size, lens weight, contact area and fit.
Sensitive skin and sport
For a known allergy, check the actual skin-contact ingredients. Friction can also irritate skin; persistent itching or rash needs assessment. For sport, check the finished eyewear’s intended protection, not just its material name.
Sources & scope
Page updated; sources checked: