Acetate, TR90, metal: which material to choose for your sunglasses?

The material of a frame directly influences three essential criteria: weight, resistance, and style. A pair intended for sports will not have the same needs as a pair worn daily in the city.

Each material therefore has its advantages depending on the desired use.

Acetate: the choice for style and finishes

Acetate is particularly appreciated for its aesthetic appeal. This material allows for the creation of deep colors, transparent effects, or patterns like tortoiseshell, with a more premium look than some technical plastics.

Denser than materials used for sports, acetate offers a more noticeable feel on the face and excellent durability when properly maintained.

It is a material suitable for glasses worn daily, when style and finishes are as important as performance.

Models like the Margot illustrate this approach with a frame designed primarily for elegance and daily comfort.

TR90 and nylon: lightness designed for activity

TR90 and other technical nylons are mainly used in sports eyewear due to their mechanical qualities.

Their main advantage: lightness. A lighter frame reduces pressure on the nose and ears, which becomes particularly important after several hours of wear.

These materials are also more flexible and shock-resistant, making them suitable for activities such as cycling, running, hiking, or outdoor sports.

The trade-off is generally a more technical look, with fewer color and finish options than an acetate frame.

Models from the Sport collection use this type of design to prioritize stability and resistance during effort.

Metal: thinness and discretion

Metal frames are appealing for their thinness and timeless style. They allow for the creation of visually light glasses, with more discreet lines than thick plastic frames.

Metal offers good durability, but requires more attention: the temples may need adjustment after several uses.

It is a particularly suitable choice for daily use when looking for an elegant and minimalist frame.

Hybrid frames: the best compromise?

Some frames combine several materials to leverage their advantages.

For example, an acetate front can provide a more refined aesthetic, while technical material temples improve lightness and comfort.

These combinations result in versatile glasses, capable of meeting multiple uses without having to choose solely between style and performance.

Which material to choose based on your use?

The right choice primarily depends on how you will wear your glasses:

• For sports and outdoor activities: opt for TR90 or technical materials for their lightness, resistance, and hold.
• For daily urban use: acetate offers an excellent balance between style, comfort, and durability.
• For a thin and elegant frame: metal remains a safe bet thanks to its discreet design.

There isn't one material that is better than the others: each meets a different need.

However, the frame material is independent of the lens quality. A light or resistant frame alone does not guarantee good sun protection. Also remember to check the lens category, UV protection, and the possible presence of a polarizing treatment before your purchase.