Never before has there been such a variety of frame materials available. Ask us about the features and benefits of each frame material and what best meets your lifestyle requirements.
Magnesium
Lighter than both titanium and aluminum. Strong, durable, and hypoallergenic, but costs almost 50% more than aluminum or steel.
Beryllium
Six times stronger than steel and 30%+ lighter than aluminum. Resists corrosion and tarnish — excellent for wearers with high skin acidity or who spend time around salt water. Nickel-free.
Pure Aluminum
Soft enough to carve, mixed with alloys for strength. Aesthetically pleasing, lightweight, and recyclable. Can get rigid in lower temperatures.
Titanium
High-strength, lightweight, hypoallergenic, and corrosion-resistant. More expensive than other materials. Distinguish between "pure titanium" and "titanium alloy."
Ticral
A titanium alloy. Nickel-free, hypoallergenic, lightweight. Offers many benefits of titanium without the high cost.
Stainless Steel
Iron and carbon steel alloyed with chromium. Non-corrosive, durable, strong, lightweight, and hypoallergenic. Easily shaped into ultra-thin styles.
Nickel Titanium (Ni-Ti / Flexon)
More flexible than steel and 25% lighter. Removes the need for spring hinges. Allergies and pitting may be issues since Ni-Ti is nickel-based.
Monel
Most commonly used frame material today — 68% nickel, 30% copper, 2% iron. Strong, weldable, sturdy. Surface discoloration can occur from atmospheric exposure or salt water.
Plastic Frames
Many style and material options. The two most common are zyl (cellulose acetate) and propionate (nylon-based, hypoallergenic). Easily molded into wraparound styles.
Gliamides / Grilamid
A premier material for sports and performance frames. Shock-resistant, lightweight, non-allergenic. Used in Rudy Project sunglass frames.
Combination Frames
Combine the sleek sophistication of metal with the colors and thickness of plastic.
Allergies?
If your skin is sensitive to certain frame materials or nose pads, please tell our staff so we can help you find eyewear you can wear comfortably.