top grip
It all started with motocross grips. Oakley discovered a material that actually increased grip as it got wet. In a motocross race, this turned out to be a incredibly useful property. After moving on to improve eyewear technology, Oakley applied what he had learned to create sunglasses. Eventually, they moved on to prescription glasses. Oakley named the material Unobtainium (supposedly due to the number of airtight patents they have on the material).
In optical design, they used Unobtainium in the sleeves of their glasses. This meant that as an inspired person, his glasses would hold on tighter.
Because of this extra grip they had over their competitors, Oakley was able to use another technology: Three Point Fit. This relates to the way the glasses sit on the face, making only three points of contact (the nose and one on each side of the head). This eliminates the need for curved stems that can uncomfortably wrap around the back of the ear.
exotic materials
Oakley Prescription frames can be made from a variety of materials depending on the properties required. Titanium stands out a lot, especially in their high-end models. This is due to a high strength-to-weight ratio as well as excellent flexibility. Oakley has also developed its own alloy, called C5 Alloy. This is made up of five different metals and aims to mimic the high-strength, lightweight credentials of titanium. When style calls for it, Oakley uses two other frame construction materials: acetate and ‘O Matter’. O Matter is considered to be one of Oakley’s own creations, but it’s really just a high-strength polycarbonate (albeit one that they source from the highest quality manufacturer possible). Acetate tends to be used in certain glasses in their Lifestyle range as it allows for heat molding to give a custom fit.
make an impact
Of course, Oakley has put everything it’s learned from sunglass lenses into its prescription lenses. Its impact protection meets ANSI Z87.1, an American standard for optical impact protection. To verify this, they carry out two controlled tests. The first is to drop a steel spike weighing 500g onto the lens, from just over four feet. They then fire a ball directly into the lens at 102 mph. These tests are designed to simulate real life impacts. Examples include stones flying off the road while riding a bike or getting hit by a cricket ball. To pass, the glasses must not be broken and no material can come into contact with the ‘eye’.
Optical clarity and impact protection are what Oakley eyewear is all about. If you’re buying glasses solely for performance, there’s little reason to go elsewhere.