OVERLAND PARK, KS (BRAIN)—Bollé is once again trying its hand at cycling-specific eyewear. The brand had cycling-specific gear for a short period in the late 1990s as well.
“It fits in well with the market that the brand sells its products to,” said Jim Katz, Bollé’s public relations representative. “It’s clearly an active lifestyle brand, and in terms of participatory sports cycling is one of the most important.”
Katz said in recent years the company has introduced more activity specific eyewear for golf and watersports, and that cycling is an extension of this philosophy.
Bollé is targeting the high end of the market with retail prices for its three models ranging from $169.99 to $199.99.
“The product is right there in terms of design and quality and performance,” Katz said. “There’s no question this is a product that you could put side by side with anything from Oakley, and it holds up extremely well.”
Vortex, Helix and Draft (pictured) are equipped with Bollé’s Optics Control System that allows lenses to be quickly and easily changed to match the tint to light conditions. Hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings protect the lenses from moisture, oil and dirt.
The three sunglass styles share an aggressive new design architecture that maximizes field of vision and comfort while keeping the gram count to a minimum. Vented temples increase airflow and details like moisture-absorbing Thermogrip temple tips and nose pads keep the frames in place.
Bollé’s new line hit retail shelves earlier this year at a select number of independent bike shops, Katz said.
—Jason Norman
jnorman@bicycleretailer.com
