I’ve waxed lyrical about how comfortable STEPPER eyewear is in several blog posts and articles. Perhaps the main reason for the supreme comfort is because the frames are so lightweight. Weight has always been a significant factor when it comes to choosing eyewear, but never more so than when having to wear a face mask, when it can feel like there’s an awful lot going on behind the ears.
But how does STEPPER manage to produce consistently lightweight eyewear? It’s all down to intelligent fabrication.
TX5: A Lightweight Plastic
TX5 is a state-of-the-art material for premium plastic frames. It’s transparent so can be coloured and it combines minimal weight with high strength. STEPPER uses a unique high-tech moulding process which allows for 3D-shaping. In turn, this helps to reduce the weight and thickness of the frame. This results in a well-balanced look and an almost-weightless feeling. TX5 is a highly stable, strong material which allows for much thinner frames and it is naturally scratch and impact-resistant. TX5 is hypoallergenic and is ISO certified for long-term harmless skin contact and biocompatibility.
To give some context, a teaspoon of sugar weighs 4.2g. This piece of eyewear, which is model number SI-30135, weighs 5.8g. It is super-lightweight and unbelievably comfortable.
This sun style is model number STS-91004. It too is made of TX5 and weighs just 14.7g. Less than a tablespoon of sugar. It is, without doubt, THE lightest pair of sunglasses I own. And I own a lot. It’s timeless and understated. This is eyewear for life.
Titanium
Titanium is a lightweight pure metal which, like TX5, is hypoallergenic. It has a natural resistance to corrosion from liquids such as saltwater, sweat and organic acids. When STEPPER describes a piece of eyewear as being fabricated from 100% pure titanium, they mean it. Some manufacturers use nickel as a soldering material which can negate the benefits of using titanium as a skin-friendly, lightweight material. Every single part of a STEPPER titanium frame is made from titanium, not just the rims or sides.
This is model numberSI-50124 and it is made from titanium. It weighs 8.8g. I love the delicate pattern at the temples. It’s pretty, delicate and perfect for spring.
It’s little wonder that once a patient has worn a piece of STEPPER eyewear, they are reluctant to try any other brand.
Notes
This blog post is part of my ongoing paid partnership with STEPPER eyewear. For more information about STEPPER and to see their catalogue, visit steppereyewear.com.
