Inspired by skateboarders (and designed by pro boarders Eric Koston, Sean Malto and Curren Caples, along with legendary photographer Atiba Jefferson), Oakley’s new Latch sunglasses have a keyhole bridge, rounded-lens orbitals, a lightweight O Matter stress-resistant frame and 100 percent UVA-protecting Plutonite lenses. That’s great. But the feature that sets these new shades above the rest is all in their name.
The Latch series is named after the built-in latch located at the hinge of each pair. When clasped shut, each hinge makes an audible “click” and tightly fastens to any shirt collar, coat pocket or backpack strap that it’s attached to. The hinge is simple and strong. For somebody who’s prone to forgetting their glasses, or crushing them in their pack, this small feature might just prolong the shades’ life.
Admittedly, the story beyond the Latch series — skateboarders designing sunglasses for skateboarders — is a little precious. But look beyond that and you’ll see that these sunglasses are stylish, comfortable and difficult to lose (whether you’re wearing them or not), making them ideal for people who prefer shades with rounded lens, and who like to keep their investments intact. oakley.com