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Oakley Prescription Glasses – Combining trend-setting aesthetics with sport-derived performance.
While Oakley has been a leader in technical sports sunglasses for decades (heck, I got my original Oakley Factory Pilots for cycling in the late 80s and Oakleys were very popular in the emerging sport climbing scene of the early 90s), many folks don’t realize that Oakley also makes a full range of prescription frames.

This fall Oakley launched its new line of prescription frames and they took this opportunity to leverage the material and construction technologies that they have perfected in their sport glasses and bring those innovations to more urban-oriented prescription eyewear.
Oakley Fenceline

Oakley Fenceline

The line-up consists of five new frames that feature a variety of Oakley technological mainstays including the incredibly light and durable O Matter frame material, which is 25 percent lighter and two-times stronger than traditional acetate frames, as well as Oakley’s non-slip Unobtainium nose-pads and ear-pieces.

Aesthetically, the new frames have a wonderfully understated look that acknowledges current frame styles without being so on-trend that the frames risk looking dated next season.

So, it’s clear that the new frames are suitable for such strenuous activities like enjoying an espresso or having a drink with friends, but what makes these particularly appealing to anyone that may also live even a mildly active lifestyle (climbers?) is that they tend to be lighter and fit more securely than more conventional prescription frames. This is important because not everyone has the option of always carrying two sets of eyeglasses: one for urban use and one for more athletic pursuits.
Oakley Chamfer

Oakley Chamfer

Oakley Nine To Five

Oakley Women’s Nine-To-Five

As I’ve alluded to earlier, Oakley achieves these seemingly conflicting qualities by employing material and construction technologies found in their sport glasses. For example, the O Matter frames are not only lighter and stronger than many conventional frames, but they also provide greater impact resistance and controlled flexibility. This last feature is particularly interesting as I suspect it allows Oakley to utilize their Three-Point Fit, which consists of the frames resting on the nose and the ends of the arms gently hugging the head. The result is a very comfortable and surprisingly secure fit that’s suitable for strenuous approaches as well as dashing to the latest gallery opening.
Oakley Voltage

Oakley Voltage

Oakley Crosslink

Oakley Crosslink

And while it’s worth noting that Oakley still offers a full line of more sport-specific prescription frames, the majority of prescription eyeglass wearers will likely prefer the performance, versatility and aesthetics of these new frames – at least during more common day-to-day activities.
You can find out more about the new Oakley prescription glasses and other Oakley products at www.oakley.com.
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is a freelance writer who has been involved in the outdoor industry for over 25 years. During his career he has been the editor at Canada’s national climbing magazine, as well as the gear editor for a national cycling magazine, triathlon magazine and running magazine. His work has been published in Canada’s national newspaper, The Globe and Mail, and he has been a guest on television and radio broadcasts. His passion for climbing began in Ontario in the mid 80s and he continues to travel extensively in search of crisp conditions and steep rock.