Most glasses produced in the UK and internationally are generally made out of either metal or plastic, or a combination of the two. But with environmentral issues becoming more of a global concern, glasses manufactured using natural, renewable sources are being embraced.
Such environmental concerns were likely the main issue behind the inception of wooden-framed glasses, as they can be consciously disposed of and responsibly manufactured. They’re also effective in reminding the general public of the ongoing environmental concerns that are so deeply inbedded in our public consciousness.
So what other benefits are they to choosing wooden frames for your glasses?
For starters, glasses with wooden frames are particularly cost effective and can cost a lot less than metal or plastic varieties. The procedure for producing them is also extremely simple and represents a distinct saving in time, money and environmental costs during the manufacturing process.
Wood glasses are very good for anyone who is allergic to the metal or plastic used in more conventional glasses frames. If you do have a similar allergy, you should be able to wear wooden frames without any difficulty, owing mainly to the introduction of natural elements to the materials.
You can fit any lens necessary to wooden frames, meaning they’re a good choice if you have prescription glasses. The materials used in these kind of glasses make them particularly robust and means they don’t suffer from losing their shape, like a lot of other glasses.
There are a couple of small drawbacks to wooden frames. Their main problem comes from their lack of flexibility, meaning then can be snapped if too much pressure is applied or they’re dropped, stood on, etc. They’re also not particularly great if you get them wet, as the wood takes a while to try (although they should be ok once they have dried out properly). Your best bet is to ensure you keep your glasses in the case whenever you’re not using them, and this should prevent any unfortunate incidents.
Wooden glasses are also now being seen as quite cool, with the Japanese brand KATA making some amazing glasses and designer sunglasses made with wooden frames. Celebrities are also jumping on the bandwagon, with Will Smith, Samuel L Jackson and Catherine Zeta Jones recently being spotted wearing the frames.
