14 Best Kids' Glasses Types to Buy Online

The 14 best kids glasses types to buy online can be found in this guide. Eyeglasses, or glasses, are defined as eyewear that has a frame and a pair of lenses that help provide vision assistance or protect the eyes. Eyeglasses for children are glasses that are made in a smaller size to fit kids comfortably. When finding the best glasses for kids, there are several criteria to take into account, including style, material and shape. There are a range of different glasses styles for kids, just like there are for adults, including oval, rectangle, cat-eye, aviator and cartoon frames. It is also important to take material into account when buying glasses frames for kids. Kids glasses are made from a variety of materials such as metal and plastic. When buying glasses for kids, you want to consider how durable the glasses are, so they will withstand the energetic kids lifestyle, as well as whether they are hypoallergenic so the glasses do not irritate the face.

The best kids glasses include sunglasses, plastic eyeglasses, coloured frame eyeglasses and rectangle frame glasses. The 14 best kids' glasses types to buy online and why are listed in full below.

Sunglasses: Sunglasses are one of the top types of glasses for kids as they protect the eyes from the sun and UV rays.
Coloured Frame Eyeglasses: Coloured frame eyeglasses are one of the best types of glasses for kids as they are fun and exciting and help kids’ get excited to wear their frames.
Metal Eyeglasses: Metal eyeglasses refers to glasses that have a metal frame, usually titanium or stainless steel. Metal glasses are more popular as an adult frame, but come in small sizes for kids who want a simple, more subtle design.
Aviator Eyeglasses: Aviator glasses are a style of glasses where the lenses are tear drop shaped, with a lightweight metal frame. Aviator glasses are a good glasses type for kids glasses as they are a fun and different style
Plastic Eyeglasses: Plastic eyeglasses are one of the best types of glasses for kids as plastic glasses, particularly acetate, are durable and sturdy, good for enduring the energetic lifestyle of kids.
Wraparound Eyeglasses: Wraparound eyeglasses for kids usually refers to glasses where the arms of the frames wrap the whole way around the head to keep the glasses on the face. Wraparound eyeglasses are good for younger kids who may lose their glasses.
Cat-eye Eyeglasses: Cat-eye glasses are glasses that have frames that resemble the eye of a cat. The frames of cat-eye glasses swoop up to a flick at the top corner of each eye. Cat-eye glasses are more popular as an adult frame, but can come in kids sizes for those who want a fun and different alternative from normal shaped glasses.
Rectangle Frame Eyeglasses: Rectangle glasses have frames shaped like a rectangle around the lenses. Rectangle frames are a great choice for kids as they are a simple, widely wearable style.
Oval Frame Eyeglasses: Oval eyeglasses are glasses with an oval shaped frame around the lenses. Oval eyeglasses are a style that is great for kids as they are a simple shape that suit many face types.
Round Frame Eyeglasses: Round eyeglasses are a style of frame where the frame around the lenses is circular shaped. Round frames are one of the best eyewear choices for kids as they are a simple, subtle style that will suit many kids.
Clear Frame Eyeglasses: Clear eyeglasses are a frame style where the arms and structure around the lenses are clear, or see through. Clear frames are a great choice of eyewear for kids who want a subtle, barely there glasses look.
Flexible Hinge Frames Eyeglasses: Flexi hinge frames are glasses that have flexible hinges where the arms connect to the front of the frame. Flexi hinges are great glasses types for kids as they are durable and hard to break.
Full rim Frame Eyeglasses: Full-rim eyeglasses have a frame that goes around the whole lens. Full-rim frames are a good choice for kids as they are sturdier and less breakable than semi-rimmed or rimless glasses.
Cartoon Eyeglasses: Cartoon glasses are glasses that have a cartoon design over the frame. Cartoon glasses are a good eyewear choice for kids as they are fun and exciting.

1. Sunglasses

Sunglasses refers to a pair of glasses that are designed to protect the eyes from the sun and its UV rays. Sunglasses are one of the best types of glasses for kids as sunglasses protect the eyes from an early age and help to limit the risk of future eye problems that may occur as a result of exposure to UV light. The sun produces a type of energy called UV light. UV light is made up of three different wavelengths: UVA, UVB and UVC. Prolonged exposure to UV light has been proven to have negative effects on the eyes. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, spending a long period of time in the sun and its UV rays puts you at a greater risk of developing eye conditions such as glaucoma, as well as eye growths. Wearing sunglasses helps to protect your eyes from UV light and lower the risk of damaging the eyes. Sunglasses are suitable for all children, regardless of age. As most kids spend a lot of time in the sun, sunglasses are a hugely important piece of eyewear as they protect the eyes from the sun and its UV rays.

Sunglasses are in high demand year round, as they are such an essential type of glasses for kids. Sunglasses come in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes, with the materials of frames also differing. Sunglasses for kids will usually have tinted lenses or polarised lenses. Tinted lenses are covered in a pigmented dye that helps to protect the eyes from UV rays. Polarised lenses help to protect the eyes from UV rays and reduce glare. According to the Cancer Council of Australia, sunglasses are separated into 5 categories, depending on how much protection they give the eye. Category 0 is the lowest rating and category 3 is the highest for general purpose sunglasses with eyewear in this category providing high protection from UV rays and sunglare.

At Oscar Wylee, we have several sunglasses available for kids including Chip. Chip is a two toned, acetate frame that comes with ear grips, perfect for older kids who want a more grown up frame.

2. Coloured Frame Eyeglasses

Coloured frame eyeglasses refer to a style of glasses in which the frame is a bright colour. Coloured frames are one of the best types of glasses for kids as a bright, happy colour on the glasses frame is more appealing then a neutral, more mature colour like black or grey that some kids may find boring. Coloured frames are suitable for all kids, especially younger kids, as having glasses in their favourite bright colours, may make the experience of wearing glasses for the first time less intimidating.

Coloured frame eyeglasses are an in-demand style of glasses for kids as they are a style that is appealing to a younger audience. Neutral colours such as black, white and beige are not the type of colour that kids want for their glasses. Kids want fun and playful colours like reds, greens, blues, pinks and purple, making coloured frame eyeglasses the perfect frame.

3. Metal Eyeglasses

Metal eyeglasses refer to a pair of glasses that have a metal frame. Metal frame glasses are usually made from stainless steel or titanium. Metal glasses are usually more popular as an adult frame, but are available in small sizes for kids. Metal eyeglasses are best suited to older kids who want a more subtle, subdued and grown up look.

Metal eyeglasses for kids are a popular frame, but usually not as in-demand as plastic frames, especially for younger kids, as they may not be aesthetically interesting as colourful plastic frames. Older children may choose metal eyeglasses for their more mature look.

At Oscar Wylee we do not sell metal eyeglasses for kids.

4. Aviator Eyeglasses

Aviator eyeglasses are a style of glasses that have teardrop lenses and a double bar bridge across the browline. Aviators are a trendy style of glasses that have military origins. Aviators have been worn by many iconic celebrities and have featured in big Hollywood films, making them a staple fashion eyewear piece. Aviator glasses are a frame that is more popular among adults and in a sunglasses design, than for kids. However, aviators do come in smaller sizes for kids. Aviators are best suited for older kids who want a more mature, fashionable frame.

Aviator eyeglasses for kids are not as popular or in-demand as some other glasses for kids as aviators have a distinct, mature look that is not often chosen by children.

Oscar Wylee does not sell aviator glasses for kids.

5. Plastic Eyeglasses

Plastic eyeglasses are a type of glasses that have a frame made from a plastic material. Plastic glasses are one of the best frame choices for kids as they come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours. Plastic glasses, such as frames that are made from an acetate material, can also be made to be more durable and less breakable than other materials. Plastic frames are suitable for all age kids as they are durable and come in a variety of shapes, colours and designs.

Plastic glasses are a hugely in-demand frame for kids. The versatility and wide wearability of plastic frames have made them a popular choice when it comes to purchasing frames for kids.

At Oscar Wylee we have several kids frames available that are made from plastic material and come in different colours, including our Chip frame. Chip is made with acetate, a thermoplastic material.

6. Wraparound Eyeglasses

Wraparound eyeglasses for kids usually refers to a style of glasses where the arms of the frames wrap the whole, or part way, around the head. Wraparound glasses are one of the best glasses choices for kids as they are designed so that the glasses do not fall off the face and will be harder to lose. Wraparound glasses will have the arms of the frames extend around the head, or, the arms of the frames have a band attached either side to wrap around the head and neck. Wraparound eyeglasses are perfect for younger kids who are prone to losing glasses or having glasses fall off the face.

Wraparound glasses are an in-demand frame for kids as they are well suited to a child’s energetic lifestyle. The extended arms of a wraparound frame help to keep glasses on the face, and sometimes around the neck when taken off depending on the design. Wraparound glasses are in-demand as they work to keep kids glasses safe and on their person, making them harder to lose.

At Oscar Wylee, some of our kids' glasses come with a neck band. This neck band is attached to the arms of the frame so when the glasses are taken off, they will come to rest on the chest.

7. Cat-Eye Glasses

Cat-eye glasses are a style of glasses where the frame tapers into a sharp, feline, shape at the top corner of the eye. Cat-eye frames have been a fashionable eye-wear piece since the 50s, with many famous people including Audrey Hepburn wearing the style. Cat-eye glasses are a frame that is more popular among adults than for kids. However, cat-eye glasses may come in smaller sizes for kids who want a fun and quirky look to their frame. Cat-eye glasses for kids are a good frame for all ages as they come in fun bright colours, or a more neutral, mature frame.

Cat-eye frames for kids are not as in-demand as other, more simple frames, but there is interest in them. Cat-eye frames are usually more in-demand as sunglasses frames than as optical frames. The interesting, feline-like shape of cat-eye glasses are a more fun look for kids, suitable for days in the sun or at the beach, as opposed to an everyday optical look.

Oscar Wylee does not sell cat-eye glasses for kids.

8. Rectangle Frame Eyeglasses

Rectangle frame eyeglasses are a style of glasses with lenses that are wider than they are tall. The lenses are bordered by a structured and rectangular frame. Wayfarer glasses are a type of rectangle frame. Rectangle frame eyeglasses for kids are one of the best glasses choices for kids as they are a simple and widely wearable frame that will suit many face shapes. Rectangle frames are suitable for kids of all ages as the frame shape is versatile, suitable for many face shapes and comes in a variety of colours and patterns.

Rectangle frame eyeglasses are a highly in-demand style of frames for kids as they are a simple shape, one that can be worn by kids with many different face shapes, including round faces, oval faces and diamond faces. Additionally, rectangle frames are in-demand as they come in a wide variety of colours, patterns and sizes.

9. Oval Frame Eyeglasses

Oval frame eyeglasses are a style of glasses with lenses that are wider than they are tall, surrounded by an oblong or egg shaped frame. Oval frame glasses for kids are a great choice of eyewear as they are a simple frame shape that will suit many face shapes. Oval frames are suitable for kids of all ages as they come in bright, fun colours and as well as more basic, solid colours, catering for the fashion preferences of all kids.

Oval frame eyeglasses are an in-demand frame as they are versatile and widely wearable. Oval frames will suit a variety of face shapes including square and diamond. Additionally, oval frames are in-demand as they come in many different sizes, colours, patterns, designs and are made from a variety of materials.

10. Round Frame Eyeglasses

Round frame eyeglasses refers to a style of glasses with lenses in a circular, round shape. Round frames have rounded corners and soft edges around the lenses. Round frame eyeglasses for kids are one of the best glasses choices as they are a simple, widely wearable frame that will suit most face shapes, and come in a variety of colours, sizes, designs and materials. Round frames are suitable for kids of all ages as they can come in fun colours and cartoons for younger kids, or more solid colours and subtle designs for older kids.

Round frame eyeglasses are an in-demand frame for kids as they are widely wearable, available in a range of sizes, colours and materials to suit all kids. Round frames are a shape that will work with many face shapes and will not overwhelm the features. Face shapes that suit round frames include square and diamond faces.

11. Clear Frame Eyeglasses

Clear frame eyeglasses refers to a style of glasses where the frame is made from a clear or see-through material. Clear frame eyeglasses are designed to be subtle on the face, not disrupting the facial features and complimentary to many face shapes.Clear frame eyeglasses for kids are a good choice for those who want simple, unobtrusive frames that do not draw too much attention.

Clear frame eyeglasses are not as in-demand as some other kids glasses, however, they are popular among those who want a more subtle look. Clear frame eyeglasses are perfect for a more grown up subtle look. Clear eyeglasses will not disrupt or overwhelm the face as much as other glasses.

12. Flexible Hinge Frame Eyeglasses

Flexible hinge frame eyeglasses refers to a pair of glasses that have flexible hinges. The hinges of glasses are the part of the frame where the arms connect to the temples and front of the glasses. Flexible hinges are usually made from a soft silicone-like material and are designed to be harder to break than normal glasses hinges. Flexible hinge frames are a great choice of eyewear for kids as, unlike normal metal spring hinges that break if pushed too far, flexible hinges bend and rotate in any direction, making them harder to break. Flexible hinge frame eyeglasses are perfect for younger kids as they will withstand the rough and tumble lifestyle of kids.

Flexible hinge frame eyeglasses are an in-demand glasses style, especially for younger kids, as the flexible hinges are more durable than metal spring hinges.

13. Full Rim Frame Eyeglasses

Full rim frame eyeglasses refer to a style of glasses that have a full rim around the lenses. A glasses rim, or frame, helps to hold all the pieces together such as arms and nose bridge, and gives the glasses structure. If a pair of glasses are referred to as full rim, this means that the rim goes around the whole lens, bottom and top, unlike semi-rimmed glasses in which the rim only surrounds the top half of the lens. Full rim frame eyeglasses are one of the best glasses for kids of all ages as the full frame is sturdy. The full rim protects the lenses and makes the glasses harder to break compared to other frames such as semi-rim and rimless glasses.

Full rim frame eyeglasses are an in-demand frame for kids as they are studier and more durable than glasses with less frame. Full rim glasses are harder for kids to break, well suited to withstand rough and tumble and the energetic lives of kids.

14. Cartoon Eyeglasses

Cartoon eyeglasses are a style of glasses in which the frames are designed with some form of cartoon decorating the frame, uusually on the arms of the frame. Cartoons are drawings or images in which the feature of the image is portrayed in an over exaggerated or unrealistic way. Cartoons on glasses encompass a range of designs from animals to superhero characters. Cartoon eyeglasses are one of the best glasses choices for kids of all ages, as they are a fun and intriguing design feature, encouraging kids to feel excited when they wear their glasses.

Cartoon eyeglasses are a popular, in-demand style of glasses for kids as they are a fun and playful design that helps intrigue kids. Being able to have their favourite character, animals or favourite superhero on their glasses, helps to get kids excited about wearing their glasses and helps promote a good optical experience.

What Type of Glasses are Most Popular with Children?

The type of glasses that are most popular with children are dependent upon the child’s age, their glasses or style preferences and the preferences of their parents. Younger children tend to gravitate towards fun, exciting frames. Cartoon frames, coloured frames and full rim frames are some of the most popular with younger children as they are less intimidating than adult frames and make the optical experience exciting. For older children, glasses that are colourful, yet also have more subtle and mature stylings are popular, such as clear glasses and full rimmed glasses. Wraparound glasses are popular with the parents of younger children as they keep the glasses on the face and prevent them from being lost. Sunglasses are a type of glasses that will always be popular with children and their parents as sunglasses are an important protective eyewear style.

What Type of Prescription Eyeglasses is Ideal for Children?

The type of prescription eyeglasses that are ideal for children are the ones that an optometrist or eye care professional has recommended. If a child needs a prescription, this is decided by an optometrist during an eye test. An optometrist will test a child’s vision and prescribe your child glasses if they need vision correction or assistance. A member of the optical team will then be able to help you pick the frames for these prescriptions.

Not all optometrists at Oscar Wylee perform children’s eye testing, so it is important to call your local store and check before making any bookings.

How to Choose the Best Type of Eyeglasses for Kids?

To choose the best type of eyeglasses for kids, you must consider certain criteria including how old the kid is, what their style preference is, whether they need a prescription, what their favourite colours are and what they need from their glasses. Once you have considered these factors, then you make an informed decision about the best type of eyeglasses for your child. For example, if a child needs glasses for sun protection and likes bright colours, then a pair of bright blue or red sunglasses are the best type of glasses to choose. If a kid wants a more mature look for their optical glasses, then the best type of glasses to choose will be a simple clear frame with their prescription over the lens.

What are the Benefits of Children's Glasses?

The benefits of children’s glasses are numerous and include improved vision, improved daily life and better learning outcomes. According to the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, a child’s eye is still in the development and growing phase, meaning that glasses may be hugely beneficial in helping vision to develop as it should. The benefits of children’s glasses are listed below.

Help provide vision correction: If a child has vision issues such as myopia or hyperopia, glasses are beneficial as they help to provide correction for these refractive errors.
Protect the eyes: Glasses such as sunglasses, help to protect kids’ eyes from the sun and UV rays.
Improve daily life: If a child has vision issues it may impact their daily life, from reading to playing with friends, and watching TV. Glasses are beneficial as they help to correct vision issues and may alleviate some symptoms associated with them such as sore eyes, in turn, helping to improve the child’s daily life.
Help improve learning: Vision is a huge part of learning in a school environment. If kids have vision issues, glasses are beneficial as they may help a child to see better, possibly improving learning and classroom engagement.

When do Most Children First Start Wearing Glasses?

Most children first start to wear glasses when they become of school age, around 6 to 12, according to The University of Rochester Medical Centre. However, there is no set age as to when children first start wearing glasses. Children will start wearing glasses when they are recommended to do so by an optometrist.

How to Determine if a Child Needs Glasses?

An optometrist will determine if a child needs glasses. An optometrist will conduct an eye test for kids and, if your child needs vision correction, they will instruct you on what glasses they need. However, there are some signs to look out for, that indicate a child may need to see an optometrist including sore eyes and sitting close to the TV or whiteboard to see clearly.

Are Eyeglasses Necessary for Children?

Eyeglasses are not necessary for all children, just those that have been to an optometrist and been told they could benefit from vision correction.

What are the Best Places to Buy Glasses Online?

The best places to buy glasses online are trustworthy retailers that sell high quality eyewear for decent prices, such as Oscar Wylee. Oscar Wylee has a range of adult and kids glasses available online, or, you can come into your local Oscar Wylee store to browse our range.