SUNGLASSES FRAME MATERIALS | PROS & CONS

From classic steel to innovative plastics and natural wood, your choice of material has a huge effect on how your sunglasses look, feel, and perform. Let's delve into the most popular sunglass frame materials and highlight their benefits and limitations.

1 Sunglasses frame materials | pros & cons1.1 Frame materials ranked1.2 Stainless steel frames1.3 Titanium frames1.4 Aluminium frames1.5 Alloy frames1.6 Plastic frames1.7 Tr90 frames1.8 Acetate frames1.9 Wood frames1.10 So what frame should you choose for your sunglasses?

FRAME MATERIALS RANKED

Stainless Steel Frames

Showing Black & Blue Polarised Browline Sunglasses

Highly resistant to corrosion and rust, making them long-lasting.
Offer robustness without the bulk, maintaining a sleek profile.
Hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin, minimising irritation.

Slightly heavier than titanium or aluminium options.
Less flexible, which may affect comfort for some wearers.

EXPLORE SUNGLASSES WITH STAINLESS STEEL FRAMES

Occasus | Blue Square Polarised Aviator Sunglasses

Engrave

-20%

SGD 109

SGD 87.2

Occasus | Black Round Aviator Sunglasses

-40%

SGD 119

SGD 71.4

Occasus | Black Gradient Aviator Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 119

SGD 95.2

Occasus | Gold-tone and Green Gradient Aviator Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 119

SGD 95.2

Occasus | Gunmetal Grey Gradient Aviator Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 119

SGD 95.2

Occasus | Round Blue Double Bridge Polarised Sunglasses

Engrave

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Occasus | Round Black Double Bridge Polarised Sunglasses

Engrave

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Occasus | Black & Transparent Double Bridge Light Polarised Sunglasses

Engrave

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Occasus | Black & Transparent Double Bridge Medium Polarised Sunglasses

Engrave

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Retro Round Black & Blue Mirror Polarised Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Retro Polarised Round Tortoiseshell Sunglasses

Popular gift

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Blue Light Blocking Browline Glasses

-20%

SGD 109

SGD 87.2

Black & Blue Polarised Browline Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 109

SGD 87.2

Black Polarised Browline Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 109

SGD 87.2

Black & Gold-tone Polarised Browline Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 109

SGD 87.2

Ward Thea Gold-Tone & Brown Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Wolcott Thea Silver-Tone & Grey Sunglasses

Engrave

-40%

SGD 89

SGD 53.4

Whitmore Thea Black Folding Sunglasses

-40%

SGD 129

SGD 77.4

Whitmore Thea Silver-Tone Folding Sunglasses

-40%

SGD 129

SGD 77.4

Wells Thea Gold-Tone & Grey Aviator Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Titanium Frames

Showing Occasus | Round Copper Titanium Polarised Sunglasses

Among the lightest and most durable frame materials available.
Corrosion-Resistant. Withstand exposure to saltwater and sweat.
Hypoallergenic. Perfect for those with metal allergies.

High-quality and performance come at a higher price.
Fewer colour options than other metals or plastics.

EXPLORE SUNGLASSES WITH TITANIUM FRAMES

Occasus | Round Gunmetal Titanium Polarised Sunglasses

Engrave

-20%

SGD 175

SGD 140

Aluminium Frames

Showing Black Polarised Aluminium Sunglasses

Extremely light, enhancing comfort for extended wear.
Easily adjustable for a custom fit.
Offers good resistance to rust and corrosion.

While strong, they’re more prone to scratches and dents than stainless steel or titanium.
Heat retention may make them uncomfortable in very hot conditions.

EXPLORE SUNGLASSES WITH ALUMINIUM FRAMES

Sporty Black Smoke Polarised Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 35

SGD 28

Black Smoke Polarised Aviator Sunglasses

Engrave

-20%

SGD 129

SGD 103.2

Metallic Brown Polarised Aluminium Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Alloy Frames

Showing Aviator Brown Polarized Sunglasses

Alloys allow for a balance of durability, weight, and cost, making quality frames more accessible.
Come in a wide range of designs and finishes, catering to different style preferences.

The blend of metals varies and so does quality and durability.
Some alloys contain nickel or other metals that may irritate sensitive skin.

EXPLORE SUNGLASSES WITH METAL FRAMES

Gold-Tone & Blue Aviators

-20%

SGD 22

SGD 17.6

Groovy Black on Black Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Groovy Gold-Tone & Grey Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Dandy Green Polarized Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Dandy Blue Polarized Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Dandy Silver-Tone Polarized Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Plastic Frames

Showing Moses Verge Black & Grey Polarised Sunglasses – Category 3.5

Plastic frames come in a wide range of colours and shapes, providing greater freedom for unique designs.
Generally lighter than metal, they can be more comfortable for extended wear.
Plastic frames are often more affordable than their metal counterparts.

While some plastics are very durable, others may be prone to breaking or bending over time.
Certain plastics can warp or discolour in extreme heat.

EXPLORE SUNGLASSES WITH PLASTIC FRAMES

Black Locs Wrap Around Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 35

SGD 28

Aviator Gold-Tone & Brown Gradient Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Macon Verge Black & Grey Polarised Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 35

SGD 28

Black Classic Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 35

SGD 28

Maurice Verge Black & Grey Polarised Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 35

SGD 28

Westley Blue-Mirror Vista Sunglasses

Popular gift

-20%

SGD 65

SGD 52

Black on Black Aviators

Popular gift

-20%

SGD 22

SGD 17.6

Gold-Tone & Dark Iridescent Aviators

-20%

SGD 22

SGD 17.6

Walden Black & Gray Wade Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 65

SGD 52

Aviator Brown & Yellow Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Black & Blue Ebony Wood Polarized Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 55

SGD 44

Black and Smokey Bamboo Browline Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

Brown Bamboo Browline Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

Clear and Blue Gradient Geometric Horn Rimmed Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Brown Gradient Geometric Horn Rimmed Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Black Geometric Horn Rimmed Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 33

SGD 26.4

Orange Wraparound Sports Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

Black & Orange Wraparound Sports Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

Black & Blue Wraparound Sports Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

Black & Green Wraparound Sports Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

TR90 Frames

Showing Walford Thea Yellow & Blue Polarised Sunglasses

Incredibly lightweight, making frames comfortable for all-day wear.
Can bend under pressure and return to their original shape, reducing the risk of breakage.
More impact-resistant than other plastic frames, making them suitable for active lifestyles.

Can be sensitive to extreme heat, potentially warping if left in hot environments for too long.
May not have the premium, luxurious feel that materials like acetate or metal offer.

EXPLORE SUNGLASSES WITH TR90 FRAMES

Occasus | Black & Transparent Double Bridge Medium Polarised Sunglasses

Engrave

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Premium Green Sport Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 79

SGD 63.2

Premium Blue TR90 Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 79

SGD 63.2

Premium Brown TR90 Sunglasses

-40%

SGD 79

SGD 47.4

Acetate Frames

Showing Occasus | Round Translucent Horn-rimmed Polarised Sunglasses

Holds colour exceptionally well, offering vibrant, deep hues and patterns.
Acetate is skin-friendly, making it a great option for those with metal allergies.
More durable and flexible than standard plastic, maintaining its shape and sheen over time.

Can be heavier than other plastics and some metals.
High-quality acetate frames can be more expensive due to their superior material qualities and craftsmanship.

EXPLORE SUNGLASSES WITH ACETATE FRAMES

Occasus | Translucent Light Grey Square Polarised Sunglasses

-40%

SGD 149

SGD 89.4

Occasus | Tortoise Shell Retro Squared Polarised Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 149

SGD 119.2

Occasus | Black Retro Squared Polarised Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 149

SGD 119.2

Occasus | Round Translucent Horn-rimmed Polarised Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 129

SGD 103.2

Wood Frames

Showing Black & Red Zebra Wood Mirror Sunglasses

Most wood frames are made of sustainable materials, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
Each pair offers a unique grain pattern, making them a distinctive fashion statement.
Wood frames are lightweight and can be surprisingly comfortable.

The durability of wood frames can vary significantly based on the type of wood and construction.
Wood frames require more care to maintain their appearance and may not be as resistant to water and sweat as non-natural alternatives.

EXPLORE SUNGLASSES WITH WOOD FRAMES

Black & Blue Ebony Wood Polarized Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 55

SGD 44

Black Ebony Wood Smoke Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 55

SGD 44

Black and Smokey Bamboo Browline Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

Brown Bamboo Browline Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

Black & Yellow Retro Polarised Sunglasses With Wood Temples

-20%

SGD 109

SGD 87.2

Black Retro Polarised Sunglasses With Wood Temples

-20%

SGD 109

SGD 87.2

Clear Ebony Wood Framed Glasses

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Clear Tortoise & Wood Framed Glasses

-20%

SGD 89

SGD 71.2

Black Browline Wood Smoke Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

Blue-Green Wood Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 42

SGD 33.6

Black & Red Zebra Wood Mirror Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 55

SGD 44

Black Rose Wood Polarized Sunglasses

-20%

SGD 55

SGD 44

So what frame should you choose for your sunglasses?

Think about how the frame material will align with your lifestyle, needs, and style preferences. Whether you prioritise durability, comfort, or looks, there's a frame perfectly suited to your life and look out there.

Here is our expert recommendation:

Go for stainless steel frames if you want long-lasting classic designs at affordable prices.
Go for titanium frames if you want the strength and premium feel of steel at half the weight.
Go for aluminum frames if want want the lightness of titanium at half the price.
Go for alloy frames if you’re looking for metal frames on a budget.
Go for plastic frames if you want funky designs on a budget.
Go for TR90 frames if you want durable frames that can take a beating.
Go for acetate frames if you want funky designs with a premium feel.
Go for wood frames if you love nature.