Lens

The lens on the Oakley target line is a big beast, so there’s no surprise that it gives a terrific field of view, presented in that classic cylindrical style that sits nice and close to your face. The lens material itself is what Oakley calls ‘Plutonite’ – a polycarbonate material used widely in sunglasses due to its impact resistance qualities. It also blocks all UVA, UVB and UVC light, resulting in clearer vision and less eye strain.

The Target Line features the classic notch system, requiring a pull on the frame to free the existing lens and lining up the new one into the holes provided. While that means lens changes aren’t as swift as they are with some of the more expensive options out there, they’re still simple enough to do without risking damage to the lens. Three anchor points – one on the top, and one under each eye – make it easy to set and release, whilst still feeling yard-sale ready.

“The Oakley Target Line is here to provide a mid-budget solution that still offers amazing visuals”

Frame and Straps

Anyone familiar with the O’s output will notice that the Target Line has a strong resemblance to the brand’s famous Sutro cycling sunnies. That, combined with the lack of any ‘frameless’ sections, makes the Target Line Oakley’s most conventional- looking model – and perfect for anyone put off by the ‘goldfish-bowl’ look of most googs.

The frame itself is made of malleable, cold-resistant plastic. From exposed Alpine peaks to the living room of even the most tight-fisted Aberdonian, it’ll brave the elements and continue to sit flush with your face. Compatibility with just about any helmet should be fine, but the flatter top section is there to ensure a seamless fit with all Oakley lids.

A chunky strap (which gets even chunkier as you move up through the three size options) boasts the classic ‘O’ logo on a solid colour background, further adding to its low-profile credentials – and thanks to the addition of silicone strips on the back, it won’t slip from its position as you ride.

“The lens on the Oakley target line is a big beast, so there’s no surprise that it gives a terrific field of view, presented in that classic cylindrical style that sits nice and close to your face”

Roundup

No-one’s been more excited than us to see auto-changing lenses and magnetic switching systems go from wishlist to reality in just a few short years, but at the same time it’s important to remember how small a constituency they serve. For the short to medium term, the need for more conventional on-mountain eyewear isn’t going anywhere.

When it comes to developing the aforementioned techgasms, Oakley leads the pack – but the Target Line shows that the brand can still take more ‘standard’ fare and elevate it into something great.

Pros:

• A premium feel without the price tag to match
• A size range that caters for all bonces, from small to Sputnik

Cons:

• Oakley’s best-in-class ‘Prizm’ hi-def lenses aren’t available for this one at the
  moment

Buy the Rome Artifact Pro: £105 at Blue Tomato UK 

Buy the Rome Artifact Pro: €115 at Blue Tomato EU