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What’s the Safest and Most Durable Material for Kids Sunglasses — TPEE or TR90?

August 13, 2025

When choosing sunglasses for your child, it’s easy to start with the look—bright colors, playful shapes, or downsized versions of adult styles. But appearance isn’t the only factor that matters. The material of the frame is just as important. While many kids’ sunglasses use plastic, the quality and type of that plastic can vary greatly. Frame material affects comfort, fit, and durability—especially when it comes to the wear and tear of active kids. Picking the right one can be the difference between a pair your child wears daily with a smile and one that gets forgotten in a drawer.

That’s where TR90 and TPEE come in. These two high-performance, kid-safe plastics are popular in quality children’s sunglasses for their combination of flexibility, strength, and lightweight comfort. TPEE is soft, gentle, and resilient—perfect for protecting the delicate faces of babies and toddlers. TR90, on the other hand, offers exceptional durability and all-day comfort for active, older kids. In this post, we’ll explore what makes TPEE and TR90 different, why each is ideal for specific age groups, and how they help ensure both lasting comfort and reliable protection for developing eyes.

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Soft Yet Strong: Choosing the Perfect Sunglasses Material for Every Stage of Childhood

Age GroupRecommended MaterialKey Benefits
0–3 yearsTPEE (Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer)Soft, safe, chew-resistant
3–12+ yearsTR90 (High-Performance Thermoplastic Nylon)Lightweight, flexible, impact-resistant

Age Group One: 0–3 Years — Gentle and Safe with TPEE

What is TPEE?

TPEE (Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer) combines the flexibility of rubber with the resilience of thermoplastics. This balance between softness and toughness makes it ideal for babies and toddlers.

toddler sunglasses
Toddler Sunglasses for 0-2 Years

Key Benefits of TPEE:

  • Ultra-Soft Comfort – Gentle on delicate skin, with rounded edges that prevent scratches or pressure marks.

  • Chew-Safe Design – Babies often put the temples in their mouths; TPEE is dense and shatter-resistant, so it won’t break into sharp pieces.

  • Sweat & Lotion Resistant – Maintains elasticity and color even with exposure to sweat, sunscreen, or moisturizers.

  • Safe and Certified – Typically BPA-free, lead-free, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Best for:

✅ Flexible Temples for a secure, comfy fit.

✅ Adjustable Head Straps to keep sunglasses in place.

✅ UV400 + Polarized Lenses for maximum sun protection.

kid sunglasses​
Baby Sunglasses for 0-3 Years

Age Group Two: 3–12+ Years — Active Kids’ Choice: TR90

What is TR90?

TR90 is a premium thermoplastic first engineered in Switzerland, part of a family of advanced polyamides valued for their impressive strength and flexibility. Thanks to its semi-crystalline makeup, the material can flex and twist without snapping—perfect for handling the bumps and drops of daily life.

Compared to conventional plastics, TR90 is about 20–25% lighter, easing pressure on the bridge of the nose and behind the ears. This feather-light quality makes it comfortable for extended wear, an important factor for younger kids. It also stands up well to heat, cold, perspiration, and substances like sunscreen, keeping its shape and color over time. Free from BPA and hypoallergenic, it’s gentle on sensitive skin and safe even if little ones chew on the frames.

With strong support from optical experts and backed by performance data, TR90 is widely recognized as one of the best materials for children’s sunglasses—combining durability, flexibility, and comfort in a single package.

best kids sunglasses
Sparkle Sunglasses for Children 6-12 Years

Why TR90 Works for Kids 3+:

Once children start school, they’re constantly moving. TR90’s combination of flexibility and strength means fewer broken frames and more hours of worry-free play. The lightweight feel makes them forget they’re even wearing sunglasses.

How to Choose Quality TR90 Sunglasses:

  1. Look for True TR90 Labeling – Check for clear “TR90” markings and safety certifications like ISO, FDA, or CE.
  2. Test Flexibility – Frames should bend easily yet spring back to shape.
  3. Prioritize Comfort – Smooth edges, soft nose pads, and flexible temples help prevent discomfort.
  4. Upgrade the Lenses – Choose UV400 lenses with anti-scratch and shatter-resistant coatings.
  5. Make it Fun – TR90 is easy to color and shape, allowing for vibrant, kid-friendly designs.
cat eye sunglasses white
Cat Eye Sunglasses for 6-12 Years

4. Parent Shopping Tips

  • Match Material to Age – TPEE for 0–3 years, TR90 for 3–12+ years.

  • Check Safety Certifications – Look for BPA-free and ISO/FDA approvals.

  • Lens Quality Matters – Ensure 100% UVA/UVB protection and, if possible, polarized lenses.

  • Involve Your Child – Fun designs and favorite colors make kids more likely to wear them.

One Final Takeaway

From the soft, baby-safe comfort of TPEE to the lightweight toughness of TR90, we’ve matched every stage of childhood with the right material—keeping little eyes protected, comfortable, and stylish every step of the way.