O Matter

O Matter is a name for a frame material coined by Oakley for its plastic line. O Matter replaced VirginSerilium found on older Frogskins and Blades. This material has two general 'generations', which changed around 1999-2000 when many glasses were renewed with updated styles or features. The older formula was not as springy, and models such as Moon's, Eye Jacket's, Topcoat's and Trenchcoat's would systematically break for many people. The newer formula is much more robust and can bend to a greater degree. Most newer frames are rarely found broken.

While considered the same frame material, certain models have different properties. Sport Specific frames are very flexible and usually stay away from crystal frames, which are made from a different technique. Fashion and lifestyle frames are usually less flexible.

O Matter Glasses were originally Split into two catagories: Jackets and Frogskins. These catagories were derived from the two models that defined the characteristics, the Classic Frogskin and Eye Jacket. Around 2004-2005, this classification was dropped for a generic O Matter catagory (although still included the Acetate frames). Jackets were primarily glasses in the $100+ range and included earsocks and Nose Bombs. Frogskins generally lacked all Unobtainium and were in the $75-100 pricepoint. However there were many exceptions to the rule. Some glasses can still be classified in either catagory, such as the Fives 3.0 (Frogskin) or Flak Jacket (Jacket).

In late 2006, the Gascan and inspired models were also split off due to their differences and labeled within the Square O catagory. This change allowed the remaining models to fit back into the Jacket and Frogskin classifications, but were never officially designated as so.


See Also

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List Of Jackets | List Of Frogskins | List Of Square_O