Around this time of the year some of my favourite things all come to fruition and I'm not talking about the size of my allotment brassicas.
A recent post in the Ophthalmic Antiques made me smile. It featured an Americal Optical frame in the shape of a bike. If only that kind of eyewear was still made today. These days we have to make do with more mundane, if practical, pieces
Sports eyewear has become an increasingly professional, and profitable, area for practices and the quality of the product on offer has blossomed dramatically.
For me this time of the year is notable as July marks the start of the Tour de France and the height of the sports sunglass season. I've had the pleasure of trying out some great product over the years and it just keeps on getting better.
Bolle 6th Sense has been one of the latest pieces to make it to the Optician office. I've worn the 6th Sense S, the small version, and so far its been out on the bike and on runs with me as I train for the Fambridge Yatch Haven Half Iron triathlon raising money for Blind Veterans UK.
It's an incredibly lightweight sunglass which has the option of side shields, a nice, addition on the bike. The modulator lens also makes it suitable for a very wide range of light conditions. On the run the side shields come off to create a light looking and feeling piece.
The geometry of the frame makes it hug the contours of your head and even when in a racing position on the bike very little light spills into the top of the frame.
It also benefits from the endorsement of at least two pro cycling teams, AG2R La Mondiale and Orica Greenedge making it s sports fashion item too.
I have to admit to getting a little too forensic (should that be anal) about sports eyewear as I have been trying out some hush hush piece for a very well known designer, yet to be unveiled.
Having to try and find fault with a product really makes you push it to its limits but also demonstrates just how good it can be. It also throws into sharp contrast some of the 'older' product lurking in the back of the drawer.
At the end of the day it always comes down to personal choice. Some people want their eyewear to make a statement and others don't some want a really dark tint other like a lens that will cope with lots of light conditions. Whatever your bag there is something out there for you.
My secret project actually tries to cross those boundaries so watch this space.