Oakley Takes Over the Olympics with Innovative Eyewear
As the world eagerly awaits the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, a throwback photo from the 2000 Sydney games has been making waves on social media and fashion websites. The photo features Trinidadian sprinter Ato Boldon sporting a pair of futuristic silver sunglasses with arms that wrap over his head instead of resting on his ears. These iconic shades, known as the OVERTHETOP, were created by California-based brand Oakley and have become a symbol of athletes’ functional and stylish expressions at the international games.
Oakley: The Ultimate Olympic Accessory
As the 2024 Olympics continue, it’s hard to miss the presence of Oakley in the various arenas scattered throughout Paris and beyond. According to Corey Hill, Vice President and Head of Global Sports Marketing at Oakley, an estimated 2,000 to 5,000 athletes will be sporting their products. From beach volleyball players to surfers in Tahiti, Oakley’s eyewear and state-of-the-art helmets are helping athletes perform at their best. The brand is also a favorite among bikers, golfers, and track stars, with a history of making its mark on the games since the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
Innovative Eyewear: Oakley’s Specialty
While Oakley has become synonymous with innovation in the world of sports, creating eyewear for the Olympics is no easy feat. Brian Takumi, Oakley’s Vice President of Creative and Soul, explains that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has strict regulations on the size of logos and branding allowed during competition. This has led Oakley to push the boundaries of design and functionality, as seen with their iconic Pro M Frame and OVERTHETOP sunglasses. In recent years, the brand has also introduced patented technologies such as RadarLock and Prizm lenses, which cater to a variety of sports and environments. And with the recent release of the Kato, Oakley continues to dominate the Olympic eyewear game.
