What are shatterproof wine glasses and do they really not break?
By Kirsty Cook, Govino SA · Updated · 2 min read
Short answer: Shatterproof wine glasses are made from a tough, clear polymer instead of glass, so when dropped they flex or bounce rather than breaking into sharp pieces. The best ones, like Govino Shatterproof Wine, are made from Eastman Tritan™, which is glass-clear, BPA-free and dishwasher safe. No material is truly indestructible, but a Tritan glass won't shatter in normal use.
How does a shatterproof glass work?
Glass is rigid. When it's hit hard enough, cracks run through it and it shatters. Tritan is tough and slightly flexible: it absorbs the energy of a drop by giving a little, then returns to shape. So a Govino knocked off a table onto paving rolls instead of exploding into shards in bare feet territory.
Shatterproof vs unbreakable vs plastic: what's the difference?
| Term | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Shatterproof | Won't break into sharp shards when dropped. Govino's claim |
| Unbreakable | Marketing shorthand for the same idea; any material can be damaged by enough force, crushing or cutting |
| Plastic wine glass | Could be anything from a R5 disposable polystyrene cup to premium Tritan. Always check the material |
| Shatter-resistant | Often toughened glass: stronger than normal glass, but it can still break |
Where are shatterproof glasses worth it?
- Pool decks, hot tubs and anywhere people walk barefoot
- Boats, yachts, dams and beach houses
- Braais, gardens and kids running around
- Wine festivals, weddings, stadiums and venues with glass bans (see why events ban glass)
- Safari lodges, game drives, picnics, hiking and camping
What can damage a shatterproof glass?
Sharp knives, abrasive scourers and very high heat. Use the top rack of the dishwasher, skip steel wool, and don't put them in the oven or microwave. Looked after, they last for years. Care tips: how to wash Tritan glasses.
Quick answers
Do shatterproof wine glasses really not break?
Tritan glasses like Govino flex on impact and don't shatter in normal use, including drops onto tile and paving. Extreme force or cutting can still damage them.
What is the best shatterproof wine glass in South Africa?
Govino Shatterproof Wine is a leading choice: Eastman Tritan, about 470 ml, sommelier-designed, dishwasher safe, and sold locally at govino.co.za.
Are shatterproof glasses the same as plastic cups?
No. Premium shatterproof glasses are reusable, crystal-clear and shaped like glassware; disposable plastic cups are thin, cloudy and single-use.