Children's Eyeglasses: Metal vs Plastic Frames

Choosing a frame for your child’s eyeglasses can be a daunting task but it’s very important because selecting the right material can truly enhance their appearance and comfort.

---

Has your child been told (s)he needed glasses after an eye exam? A professional children’s eye doctor can help determine which type of frame is most suited to your child needs based on factors such as:

• Face shape
• Skin tone
• Level of activity
• Prescription
• Age

Whether your child needs eyeglasses for the first time, or is looking to upgrade their existing pair, our Calgary children’s eye doctors can help you find the most durable and fashionable pair to keep their vision clear and comfortable.

Eyeglass Frames for Kids: Metal vs Plastic

Plastic frames have always been thought to be safer and sturdier than metal ones for children and most parents often think about this when choosing eyeglasses for their kids.

However, as more and more reputable brands create metal frames designed for small children, eye doctors are encouraging parents to consider a wider range of eyeglasses and not adhere to specific frames. Of course, each material comes with its pros and cons and whichever one you select with your children’s eye doctor will depend highly on your kid’s specific needs.

Metal vs Plastic: Which frame is right for your child?

 

Factor

Metal Eyeglasses

• If your child is going for a minimalist, more serious look, a metal eyeglass frame can make him/her look more mature.
• Is your child looking for the ever-trendy ‘Harry Potter’ style eye glasses? A metal frame is the perfect choice!
• Metal eyeglasses come in a limited range of colors including silver, black and gold.
• It’s a great option if your child is looking for a more subtle style.
• Metal frames are designed to be thinner, so have a lighter overall frame than plastic ones
• Metal is one of the most durable eyeglass frame material although they tend to be thinner in the eye wire (the part of the frame that holds the lens in place.)
• Some of the most common metals used to make eyeglasses include flexon, aluminium and titanium.
• Metal frames have a thinner  eyewire  so when lenses are thicker they are more noticeable.

Plastic Eyeglasses

• Many children’s eye doctors recommend plastic frames because they come in many shapes and sizes.
• Also, because they are thicker than metal frames, they are easier to mould into bold designs and bright patterns.
• Plastic frames come in a wide range of colors and allow your child to make a bolder fashion statement.
• Many children love the bold prints and colors that come with plastic eyeglasses!
• Plastic frames tend to be heavier than metal ones but, depending on the type of plastic, it’s possible to get a lightweight frame
• High-quality plastic frames are resistant to permanent deformation when dropped. However, they can snap when placed under high stress
• Plastic frames can support stronger lens prescriptions because frames are thicker. The frames also conceal the thickness of the lens edges

Children’s eye doctors often recommend polycarbonate lenses, especially if the child plays sports, as these are very durable and are less likely to break if the frame is damaged

Importance of Eye Exams When Choosing The Right Frame Material

During an eye exam, not only will the optometrist check whether or not your child needs eyeglasses, but they will also take the opportunity to consider several factors including your childs:

• Face shape
• Lifestyle
• Cosmetic needs
• Prescription
• Health (e.g. whether or not they have any allergies)

Depending on what is determined during the eye exam, our experienced children’s eye doctors can use this information and work closely with you to select the appropriate frame for your little one.

 

Call Today

To find out more about our wide range of children’s eyeglasses or to book an eye exam today, contact our Calgary clinic at 403-286-4884 or fill in our online contact form.