From color blocking to monochrome, Anoraks to quarter-zip fleece, gear designers have been leaning hard into retro designs of late. Within the list of inspired brands is VALLON, Amsterdam-based makers of performance goggles and sunglasses for mountaineering, skiing, hiking, sailing, fishing, and motorbiking. As if that wasn't enough, they’ve just added “cycling” to their repertoire of sports eyewear with the latest style release, the Watchtowers.
VALLON sunglasses are best known classic style. And the new Watchtowers ($157) design is no different. It features a rounded mono shield shape inspired by an ‘80s silhouette that integrates well with the brand’s vintage aesthetic. Brothers Richard and Marcus Franck founded VALLON (French for small valley) in 2019 while also—not so coincidentally—running Old Schoolers, an Instagram account devoted to the history of skiing. They wanted to make a line with high quality optics AND approachable prices.
The Heron Glacier glasses are the VALLON sunglasses flagship product, adapted from the iconic glacier glasses design of the likes your grandfather may have worn—leather side shields, rounded temple ends, protective centerpiece—updated with high quality materials and shatterproof and anti-fog lenses. Then came the Waylons for everyday use and outdoor sports, Ski Aviators for touring, and Freebirds snow goggles (though not in that order). The Francks said cycling, particularly gravel biking and hybrid endurance adventures, was an obvious next step for VALLON’s evolution.
“We love drawing inspiration from classic designs and shapes of eyewear, from the 50s to the 80s,” VALLON founders Richard & Marcus Franck shared over email. “What all of these designs required was a technical boost—exceptional optics and lightweight, durable frame materials. We respect the vintage aesthetic, but ensure that all our products can withstand the test of 21st century lifestyle, and adventure.”
When it comes to the Watchtowers, three interchangeable silicone nose pieces improve fit and ventilation, while the shatterproof lenses made of polycarbonate plastic protect from road debris, gravel, and branches. The Carl ZEISS proprietary RiPel coating acts as a hydro-oleophobic barrier to repel water and oil—which is particularly important for clear vision and safety, regardless of your sport of choice.
Adding a sustainability angle, the Watchtowers feature frames made of 85 percent upcycled fishing nets, which are cleaned and then fused into a durable and flexible nylon 6 that ranges in density from the brow to the temple. You’ll find brown or gray lens tints in most VALLON styles, a design choice that enhances contrast and amplifies natural shades and visibility in a range of outdoor conditions.
VALLON is starting 2024 strong with the launch of the Watchtowers, and the brothers say you can expect even more lifestyle and performance products slated this year. Classic style meets maximum performance—you already know we'll be keeping an eye out.
Published 01-31-2024
