GARRETT LEIGHT LAUNCHES ‘SPORT UTILITY VISION’

by Stephen Garner

Garrett Leight California Optical (GLCO) has introduced Sport Utility Vision – lenses that are specially designed with life outdoors in mind.

Brand founder and CEO Garrett Leight is an avid golfer and discovered a need for this lens in his collection while on the course.  “I saw all these guys out there wearing serious sports performance sunglasses – like the kind you’d wear for professional cycling – and it just seemed kind of silly to me,” said Leight. “You don’t need that kind of sunglass for golf and they won’t really improve your game. If they did, you would see the pros wearing them, right? And in my opinion, they really detract from your personal style. With the way fashion is evolving on the course and some really cool golf brands emerging, I knew there would be a space in the market for timeless, classic sunglasses with a higher performance lens designed for the game.”

Developed with a premium lens material called Trivex, Sport Utility Vision lenses provide the optical clarity of mineral lenses while offering an impact-resistant and lightweight sports performance lens. With 100 percent UV protection and a built-in color equalizing technology, the lenses protect the eyes and reduce the intensity of light, while enhancing color sensitivity and maximizing contrasts for improved depth perception and optimal visual acuity. In laymen’s terms – you will see the course, and your ball, better.

The first Sport Utility Vision lenses have been released in a new limited-edition collaboration with Jones Sports Co, leaders in golf lifestyle equipment and accessories. Founded in 1971, the Portland, Oregon-based brand is dedicated to capturing nostalgia, while paying tribute to the legacy of the game by utilizing pure and traditional designs. The partnership will include a unisex sunglass and an exclusive backpack, sold as a set that can be used on and off the golf course.

“We pride ourselves at Jones in developing lifestyle products designed for the modern golfer,” added Chris Carnahan, partner and creative director at Jones Sports Co. “After playing golf with Garrett, it was apparent he shared the same passion for golf and fashion as myself. It’s always fun to see a fairway conversation among friends turn into our brands working together with the release of this collaboration.”

The GLCO x Utility Daypack keeps it sleek and minimal with a slim design perfect for on, and beyond, the fairway. The exterior combination of weatherproof Tarpaulin and Ballistic nylon resists the elements, while the branded interior micro-suede, mesh compartments, and padded sleeve keeps your essentials protected and organized. Adjustable padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap are used for optimal comfort and ergonomic support, while exterior mesh pockets line the bags side for easy hydration, or libation, access.

The GLCO x Jones sunglasses take one of the most iconic and recognizable styles from the Garrett Leight collection and elevates its performance. The Kinney Sun is a classic square-shaped design with balanced proportions that creates a universally flattering frame. Offered in a Sea Grey acetate, the collaboration style features a Grey/Green SUV Lens, making it an ideal choice for the golf course.

The GLCO x Jones set is now available on garrettleight.com and jonessportsco.com. The items will retail together for $395.