Through the sailors' eyes

Sustainable eyewear brand Karün has developed a new collection with the help of Volvo Ocean Race sailors – and more recycled material than ever before.

The company, from Patagonia, Chile, who launched their first ever Volvo Ocean Race edition sunglasses made from recycled fishing nets last October, has returned with a second edition, which now includes recycled carbon fibre in the material composition.

“Carbon fibre waste often ends up in landfills as it's expensive to recycle into new parts," said Thomas Kimber, founder of Karün. "We're giving value to this waste by incorporating it into our sunglasses. With this new material mix we can help upcycling different types of waste into new, high quality products changing people’s perspective."

Karün is an official partner of two teams in the race – Vestas 11th Hour Racing and Turn the Tide on Plastic – and the new collection was developed with the help of Volvo Ocean Race sailors including Mark Towill, Charlie Enright and Martin Strömberg. 

“The sailors, as well as the Boatyard team, have been a great source of support and input in many steps in our design process, testing the products in the very real and tough conditions at sea during the Volvo Ocean Race," said Barbara Toledo, one of the brand's designers.

"We couldn’t have asked for better product testing. Out of this collaboration we were able to create a high performing frame that is flexible yet keeping its shape and grip after wear and tear at sea.”

The sailors' invaluable feedback on technical requirements enabled Karün to develop a sustainable, high performance sailing eyewear.

“We are trying to bring more awareness around ocean health and marine debris, and these guys are actually doing something about solving the problem," said Vestas 11th Hour Racing's Mark Towill.

"Karün has allowed us to be involved in the design process for this sailing edition since the very inception of the project so it is really amazing to see the final product. I am really proud to be wearing these glasses as we sail around the world.”

Karün eyewear is available online through their website www.karunworld.com and in selected retail stores across Europe, including the prestigious Musto store.