buyer's forum
Starting Lines
The world of sports eyewear certainly has
built up its muscle over the past two decades. When Eyecare Business was
launched, athletes were leaving their eyewear in the locker room when it was time
to hit the field. But advancements in frame and lens technology, a deeper understanding
of the visual needs of athletes, and rise of healthy living have made sports eyewear
a winner for optical.
1988: EB's first feature on sports-specific eyewear pointed out how a sports focus can help grow a practice. A.I. Garner, founder of the National Academy of Sports Vision pointed out, "Our original intention was to make the elite athlete an even better athlete by correcting or enhancing his vision. But we're now attempting this with all athletes, no matter what the age or experience level."
1996: The sporty look was firmly entrenched across the U.S., providing youthful style for boomers and suiting the extreme sports of generations X and Y. "A lot of people are attracted to the sport category, not just die-hard sports enthusiasts," said Jim Pritts, then president of the Sunglass Association of America. "Even if someone is not involved in a particular sport or activity, they want to look the part. Consumers are demanding sports eyewear styles that provide functional benefits, but fashion also impacts the consumer's decision."
2005: In recent years, casual day has become every day and sports eyewear is seen on and off the field. "They will use them for cutting glare and wind on a bike, but use them for driving as well," noted Timothy Donovan, president of Optical Options of Aspen in Aspen, Colo.
This isn't just a case of mainstream eyewear getting more athletic. Traditionally extreme eyewear lines are broadening their offerings by introducing crossover styles that go from the half-pipe to the happy hour.
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