In the eyewear industry, “plastic sunglasses” often get labeled as budget, mass-market, or entry-level. But the real story is more nuanced — especially if you’re a brand looking to balance style, affordability, and production efficiency.
Let’s take a closer look at plastic sunglasses from a manufacturer’s perspective — including when (and why) they still make perfect sense for your eyewear collection.
1. What Are Plastic Sunglasses Made Of?
Most plastic sunglasses are made using injection-molded materials, which are melted and formed in a high-pressure mold. The two most common materials in this category are:
| Material | Key Traits | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Polycarbonate (PC) | Lightweight, impact-resistant, low cost | Sports, kids, promotional |
| Injected Nylon (TR90) | Flexible, durable, better finish | Mid-range fashion / casual |
| ABS/Generic Plastic | Cheapest, brittle, limited finish | Promotional or disposable |
Compared to acetate (a hand-polished, plant-based material), injected plastic is machine-formed and mass-production friendly.
2. Advantages of Plastic Sunglasses for B2B Buyers
Don’t underestimate the value of plastic frames — here’s why brands still choose them:
- Low mold cost: Ideal for brands testing the market
- Fast production: Injection molding offers high repeatability and efficiency
- Flexible designs: Complex shapes and wide range of color options
- Lightweight: Great for casual, youth, or activewear segments
- Affordable pricing: Opens up entry-level price points and higher margins
Plastic sunglasses are often used for first drops, fast fashion collabs, influencer bundles, or seasonal collections.
3. Customization Options: More Than You Think
Many clients assume plastic = low customization. That’s not true. Here’s what’s possible:
| Customizable Feature | Notes |
|---|---|
| Frame color | Solid, translucent, gradient, matte, or gloss |
| Printed logos | Pad print, silkscreen, or transfer printing |
| 3D logo embossing | Molded during injection for permanent branding |
| Lens options | UV400, polarized, mirrored, gradient, or color-matched |
| Temple tips or inserts | Can add rubber or textured finishes |
You can still build a branded experience — even at a lower unit price.
4. When Plastic Makes the Most Business Sense
Plastic sunglasses are a smart choice for certain product strategies:
- Gift-with-purchase programs in cosmetics or fashion
- Event merchandise (festivals, concerts, product launches)
- E-commerce brands targeting affordable accessories
- Quick-launch trend drops (color pops, seasonal capsules)
- Children’s lines where safety and lightness are key
Because plastic molds are cheaper and fast to produce, they’re perfect for speed-to-market launches or market testing before committing to premium materials.
5. Limitations to Be Aware Of
While plastic sunglasses offer flexibility, they do come with trade-offs:
- Finish quality is lower than acetate or metal
- Color options are fixed per mold batch — harder to switch post-production
- Structural durability can vary by material
- Perceived value is lower — may not suit luxury positioning
This is why many of our clients use plastic only for specific SKUs or secondary product tiers, while premium styles are produced in acetate or metal.
6. MOQ and Lead Time Are Manufacturer-Friendly
Plastic sunglasses are extremely efficient in B2B production. Here’s what to expect:
- Mold cost: Often USD $400–800, depending on frame complexity
- MOQ: Typically 500–1000 pcs per model/color
- Lead time: 25–35 days after sample approval
- Sampling: 5–10 working days for most plastic molds
This speed is attractive for clients running fast fashion, TikTok drops, or wholesale restocking programs.
Final Thoughts
Plastic sunglasses are not about cutting corners — they’re about strategic product planning.
Whether you’re launching your first eyewear line or expanding into accessible price points, plastic sunglasses can help you:
- Lower startup risk
- Test seasonal colors or trends
- Increase SKU depth without heavy investment
- Offer value to price-sensitive markets (e.g. LATAM, Southeast Asia)
If executed well — with thoughtful design, functional lenses, and proper branding — plastic sunglasses can become a powerful part of your portfolio.
Want to explore models, pricing, or sampling options? Let’s discuss how plastic sunglasses could support your brand’s growth.