Frames look alike in a photo and feel completely different on your face. The material decides how light, flexible, tough and comfortable a pair is. Here are the three you'll meet most.
TR90: light and flexible
TR90 is a nylon-based thermoplastic used in many sports and everyday frames. It is very light, springs back when bent, and tolerates heat and sweat well. It is usually comfortable for sensitive skin, and it comes in many colours. Where it's weaker: it has less of the deep, glossy colour depth of acetate, and it can't be reshaped as precisely by heat.
Best for: sports, travel, kids, and anyone who sits on their glasses.
Acetate: depth, colour and character
Acetate (cellulose acetate) is a plant-based plastic made in layered sheets and then cut and polished. That is why it can hold rich, layered colour patterns like classic tortoise-shell, and why it feels solid and premium. It can be warmed and adjusted to fit your face. It is heavier than TR90, and a hot car dashboard can warp it, so don't leave glasses in direct sun.
Best for: style-led everyday wear and bold fronts. Thick acetate also helps hide lens edges.
Metal: slim and adjustable
Metal frames (stainless steel, monel, titanium and others) are thin, strong and refined. Most have adjustable nose pads, which makes fitting easy. Titanium is especially light and corrosion-resistant. Cheaper plated metals can tarnish with sweat, and a small number of people react to nickel, so tell us if your skin is sensitive.
Best for: a minimal look, office wear and fine-tuned fit.
Side by side
| TR90 | Acetate | Metal |
|---|
| Weight | Very light | Medium | Light (titanium lightest) |
| Flexibility | High, springs back | Moderate | Varies; can bend out of shape |
| Sweat and heat | Resistant | Fine, avoid hot dashboards | Quality varies; cheap plating can tarnish |
| Skin comfort | Generally good | Generally good | Check for nickel sensitivity |
| Colour depth | Good | Excellent | Finish-dependent |
| Adjustability | Limited | Good with heat | Excellent (pads, temples) |
So which lasts longest?
There is no single winner. TR90 usually survives rough handling best, good acetate lasts for years if it's kept away from heat, and quality metal lasts when the finish is good and the pads are replaced when worn. Daily care helps all of them: use both hands, store them in a case, and clean them gently (see how to clean glasses).
Whatever you choose, look for a frame backed by a clear warranty. See our returns and warranty policy for what we cover, and browse lightweight everyday frames built for daily wear.
Visit or message us
EYVRO is the online brand of Deepak Optical, Aligarh, opposite Gandhi Eye Hospital on Ramghat Road. Open 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM, Monday to Sunday. Get directions, message us on WhatsApp, or see our store page.
