Hello everyone, and welcome to another of my reviews. In this article, I’ll be reviewing my latest experience at the local eyewear label sightonomy, where I got two glasses done.
I’ve gotten a couple of frames from sightonomy before, and even did coloured lenses with them. This time, I decided to go back and get something different done.
Specifically, I was searching for a pair of activewear glasses. I’ve recently decided to embark on a weight loss programme, and part of that includes working out at least thrice a week. And luck would have it, Jonathan happened to be at sightonomy to drop off his latest frames.
He shared that he is the founder of BetaSimplicity, a local line of technical eyewear for those with an active lifestyle. I was intrigued – I wasn’t even aware that there are local eyewear labels. Jonathan then further relayed that he has since left his previous job as an engineer to focus fully on the brand, seeking to develop frames that are “specifically engineered to serve functional purposes”.
For example, he shared with me the Curre, BetaSimplicity’s line of athleisure eyewear that combines 3D printing and injection molding technology. It’s also the only offering in the eyewear market to offer variable temple lengths, allowing the wearer to get the most perfect fit possible.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t a fan of the narrow, half-rim look. It’s too sporty for me – I’m not Soh Rui Yong. Thus, I relayed to Jonathan that I was looking for a more stylistically versatile frame.
Jonathan then promptly introduced his VASAC line, which is designed to give wearers a wide, all-around field of vision. This allows the wearer to look through the top of the lenses and is recommended for pilots, NSFs, leisure sports and any activities where an unobstructed top view is required. It also comes with a novel non-slip anchor tip to prevent the frame from sliding while worn. Given that I now do Muay Thai and tennis weekly as part of my exercise regimen, these features were music to my ears.
I instantly fell in love with the VASAC line after trying it on. For one, its shape is rounder, and thus more proportionate for my face than the narrow half-rim design of the Curre. And while it’s fashioned out of flexible Swiss plastic (making it near unbreakable), it looks decent as well – no issues pairing it with more formal outfits, such as what I’m wearing in the photo above. That’s another plus point, as its stylistically versatile appearance allows it to be appropriate for multiple settings. For example, one can wear it to work, and then to the gym afterwards.
I eventually picked a pair of greyish translucent VASAC frame, which I felt was the most versatile of the lot.
Aside from VASAC and the Curre, BetaSimplicity also has a line of kid-friendly glasses named Myofit that is tailored to control myopia. I’m told that it’s the brand’s best-selling line – proof that parents will spare no effort for their children’s wellbeing.
Of course, I had a quick chat with Shane (owner of sightonomy) before leaving. I was intrigued by the two-tone frame he was wearing, and he shared that he was striving to bring in quirkier frames to cater to more diverse needs.
As Shane was sharing with me his latest frames, the two-tone Endo caught my eye. It’s a unique combination of blue and rose gold (sightonomy calls it the Denim Rosato) that I’ve not seen before. It’s also made from titanium, and therefore lightweight and hypoallergenic.
I tried on the Endo, and instantly adored it. I realised that it had curved temples, which gives those with broader faces (like me) a more generous fit. It also has contrasting brown acetate tips that add even more character to the frame. I instantly told Shane that I would take it, and returned a week later to collect both frames.
sightonomy – VASAC Review
Let’s first look at the VASAC, which is meant to be the activewear frame.
Interestingly, the VASAC comes in a camo case – very thematically on point. It’s a cute detail that I have to commend the brand for.
The design of the VASAC is not going to set the world on fire, but I wasn’t looking for that in activewear spectacles anyway. Instead, I appreciated the cool grey tone of the frame, which made it easy to pair with a wide variety of clothing.
The VASAC’s frame has a raised top, which allows for unobstructed vision while looking up. Yet, this functional detail doesn’t result in an awkward design but rather blends in seamlessly with the rest of the frame.
Furthermore, the Swiss plastic does feel different from regular plastic frames. While lightweight, it’s noticeably sturdier without compromising on flexibility.
We have all worn attachable ear hooks before – I remember my mum buying them for me for my PE classes in school. However, I never wore them for long as my ears were always sore shortly afterwards. VASAC took the traditional ear hook to the next level, designing an integrated temple tip that’s not only hypoallergenic and soft but also applies minimal pressure to the ears.
All in all, I’m tremendously pleased with the VASAC. It ticks all the boxes for an activewear frame – durability, flexibility, comfort, all without sacrificing functionality. I appreciated its commitment to delivering an unobstructed view, allowing me to keep track of punches in Muay Thai and see my ball toss while serving in tennis better. Jonathan also shared that lots of NSFs remarked that the VASAC frame helps them aim better while shooting as it allows them to see the target more easily. As the icing on the cake, the versatile design of the frame allows it to be paired with formalwear as well, making it more than just a one-trick pony.
sightonomy – Endo Review (with Tokai Lutina Lenses)
Next, let’s take a look at the Endo from sightonomy.
When I got the Endo, I asked Shane to recommend suitable lenses for the frame. Given the Japanese inspiration of the Endo, Shane suggested the Tokai Lutina lenses, sharing that its blue-light filtering was comparable to pricier alternatives such as Crizal.
While traditional blue-light blocking lenses have a yellowish tinge, the Tokai Lutina does not, and instead appear just as clear as regular lenses. However, it retains high efficacy, with Tokai stating that it cuts out 94% of high-energy Violet light, and therefore helps preserve ocular health. I’m no expert on ocular health, so I’ll direct interested readers to the brand’s page on the matter here.
In any case, the Tokai Lutina lenses are only 10-15% costlier than standard blue-light blocking lenses at sightonomy. Given that Tokai is one of Japan’s most prominent lens manufacturer, the slight price premium was a no-brainer.
And while I’m no optometrist, I have to say that I found the Tokai Lutina lenses to be effective, especially when I’m outdoors. Most people think that blue-light filtering lenses are for counteracting smart devices such as our phones or laptops. However, the biggest contributor of harmful light rays is actually the sun. In other words, UV rays from the sun are the most detrimental to our ocular health, resulting in negative symptoms such as tired eyes. That was the reason why I opted for photochromic lenses previously, but the look may not be for everyone. If you prefer clear lenses, then Tokai Lutina is a great alternative. I felt a difference when I was outdoors under the harsh sunlight – my eyes felt noticeably less strained.
Let’s now move on to the Endo frame itself. While understated, the frame is full of striking details, such as the faceted temple design. It’s not straight, as most frames are, and instead features an angled appearance for subtle pizzazz.
Another small detail I appreciate is the ribbed texture on the interior of the temples. It provides texture to the frame and juxtaposes nicely against the brushed rose gold body.
I also like the metal nose pads, which look sleeker than the standard silicone nose pads that often turn yellow over time. I’ve had those on the Kieran, and have had to bring the yellowed nose pads to Shane to have them replaced (albeit free of charge).
Lastly, I love the tortoiseshell temple tips, which add a layer of textural and contrast to the Endo. It also enhances its sophistication, allowing the frame to be easily worn with more formal outfits despite the funky blue rims.
Overall, the Endo is one of my favourite frames currently. I found the Tokai Lutina lenses to be as effective as advertised, while its refined yet unique appearance gives my formal outfits (like above) a touch of flair. I now alternate between the Aspen and the Endo when I’m outdoors – the former when I’m feeling for transition lenses, and the latter when I’m not.
Conclusion – so sightonomy’s Tokai lenses and VASAC frame “shiok” or not?
I think I’ve found my perfect two-frame duo – the VASAC for days when I’ll be working out, and the Endo (with the Tokai Lutina lenses) for days when I’m not. Both glasses not only look good but are also highly functional. And as the icing on the cake, both frames are stylistically versatile, and look at home when paired with a variety of outfits. I usually end my reviews with some sort of criticism (because balance is important), but I genuinely cannot find fault with these glasses.
Both the VASAC (with standard lenses) and the Endo (with Tokai Lutina Lenses) start from $160 onwards. As always, those interested in purchasing eyewear from sightonomy can quote “WAHSOSHIOK” in-store or when making your appointment to enjoy $10 off your purchase. After the discount, both frames will set you back from as low as $150, making them comparable to mainstream options such as Owndays. If they cost the same, why not support homegrown brands instead – I know Shane and Jonathan would highly appreciate the local support. It’s not easy running a retail brand by yourself (I now know how it feels), so I encourage supporting your fellow solopreneurs if you have the chance.
View the VASAC line here.
View the Endo here.
Learn more about the Tokai Lutina Lenses here.
View the full range of sightonomy’s offerings here.
sightonomy’s location: 60B Smith St, Singapore 058963
P.S: Check out The Shiok Store here – it serves as a curation of my favourite products from my favourite brands.
P.P.S: Do check out the new “Discounts!” page for exclusive discounts for Wah so Shiok readers! More brands will be added very soon – stay tuned!
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P.P.P.P.S Shiok is a common word Singaporeans use to express admiration or approval. As of 2016, you can find the definition of the word in the Oxford English Dictionary.
