Synonymous with high performance and bold design,
Carrera eyewear has once again returned to the top of the industry. Created in 1956 by Wilhelm Anger, an Austrian pioneer in sports eyewear, Carrera has been known for their innovated, durable sunglasses that were primarily designed for racing fans, but has garnered considerable attention from the public in general.
Until recently, Carrera had been in somewhat of a slump compared to its peak years in the 1970s and 1980s. But thanks to their distinctive style, cutting-edge technology, and emphasis on creating unique, stylish sunglasses that are perfect for outdoor adventures.
The History of Carrera
The legacy of the company is built on a fearless approach to eyewear design. Incorporating solid, durable materials with its forward-looking designs, the company first garnered notice when it started using Optyl, a material that was lighter and stronger than traditional acetate. This material remains a part of Carrera designs to this day.
But it is the sports-oriented approach to their designs that helped make the company stand out from the competition. The popularity of their racing glasses and ski goggles put the company on the map. Making it a favorite of athletes along with adventurers.
By the 1970s, Carrera had become a household name, thanks to the numerous celebrities that wore their product. Many of their designs exuded glamor and style, thanks in large part to the oversized frames that were quite bold in their appearance. However, as the 20th century reached its end, the minimalist approach to eyewear design took hold and Carrera suffered a slump in popularity.
Resurgence of Carrera
For Carrera, a large part of their resurgence is due to the retro styles that are now in fashion. Carrera has also updated their designs using modern materials and a bold, new approach that has helped them regain their status within the industry.
The bold frame designs of the 70s and 80s are once again in style. The reintroduction of classic
Carrera eyewear such as their Champion, an aviator-style of sunglasses, along with the large, bold Carrera 1001 have helped the brand reestablish itself with renewed vigor.
It helps that celebrities and high profile figures have
sported Carrera designs which have boosted their popularity considerably. From Brad Pitt to Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Carrera frames have returned to the spotlight. In addition, Carrera sunglasses are often seen in fashion and street photography, adding to their cool vibe which appeals to a new generation.
Tradition Combines with Innovation
Carrera isn’t resting on its laurels. The company continues to innovate and release cutting-edge designs that utilize the latest technology and materials. One of the more interesting is their collaboration with the Safilo Group in which lightweight titanium frames with flexible hinges are used for increased comfort and durability.
Plus, Carrera is utilizing a wide range of different lens types from photochromatic lenses that adjust to changing conditions of light to polarized lenses that incorporate the best in UV protection. The combination of heritage and innovation has put Carrera back in the forefront of eyewear design. For those seeking high performance sunglasses with that unmistakable retro feel while still being new and innovative, Carrera has become the choice.
