Brand Focus: Oakley
While the earliest roots of Oakley can be traced back to innovative motorcycle grips sold out of a Californian garage in 1975, the brand is now recognised as both the original and the leading name in sports eyewear - and for good reason. A first foray into the industry that they would eventually become most associated with would take place in 1980, with the development and release of their first pair of sports goggles - the "O Frame". The popularity of this release saw awareness of the brand increase massively, with endorsements received from some of the biggest names in motorcross at the time thanks to their comfortable fit, reduced lens distortion and large field of view when compared with competitors of the time.
Although these particular goggles proved to be ineffective for both BMX and motorcross riders, the expanded range of vision granted by their unique wraparound design proved popular - So much so that in 1983 the Oakley founder was inspired to apply the design to everyday sunglasses alongside the sports goggles. While initially aiming to broaden the brand's demographic away from sports, it was the second-placed Tour de France finish by Greg Lemond while wearing a pair that saw the interest and popularity of Oakley skyrocket.
Since then, a wide selection of iconic sunglasses shapes have been developed and launched by the brand; arguably none moreso than Frogskins. Initially created to fill a void between releases of other, more "brave and interesting" (In the words of the founder) styles, Frogskins became popular almost overnight. Now a staple of most sunglasses collections and often compared with the Ray-Ban's Wayfarer, their secure fit, comfortable design and classic look has seen the style become one of Oakley's bestsellers.
Matte Black Sphaera Sunglasses
If the style and functionality don't catch your eye, the precision and expertise involved in each pair of "Prizm" lenses fitted to Oakley's surely will. With some of the most effective colour reproduction technology found in any sunglass lenses available, you're able to see with more vibrance and clarity in any situation. It could be said that no eyewear brand in the world is as forward thinking or innovative with each new release and collection.
