We review everything to know about the Oakley Bottlecap Sunglasses and Bottlecap XL! Plus where you can still find them!
Table of Contents
History and Release
The Oakley Bottlecap sunglasses were first introduced in 2005. Four years later in 2009, Oakley introduced the Bottlecap XL, a larger variation of the frame.
Overall this style is part of the Jackets family that first debuted in 1994 with the Eye Jacket. Nowadays you’re more likely to recognize the Eye Jacket Redux, the re-release of the popular frame.
Keep reading for our Oakley Bottlecap and Bottlecap XL review including the size of each frame and where you can still buy them!
Oakley Bottlecap Sunglasses Review
Frame and Design
The Oakley Bottlecap features an O Matter half-rimmed frame that is lightweight, flexible, and durable. The extended wrap is curved and contoured without wide angles or corners. But despite the relatively simple look at first glance, the Bottlecap still has some tricks up its sleeve.
The sculpturally integrated hinge looks sleek when the sunglasses are on your face and have a little Oakley flair when the stems are folded. The stems are wide enough at the front to provide a solid fit for the lenses and taper back for a comfortable fit over the ears.
The half-frame is a nice option for anyone who wants an open field of vision. One drawback of this style is the lack of Unobtainium socks or nose pieces for grip. This is more similar to a lifestyle frame like the Gascan than a sports frame.
Overall the Bottlecap fits most people well but the shape is particularly flattering and comfortable for small and medium-sized faces.
Lenses
Since this is a half frame, the lens itself determines the shape. For the Bottlecap that shape is rectangular with an angled lower outer corner. This is a similar lens shape and design to the Half Jacket or Flak Jacket frames.
The Bottlecap sunglasses feature Plutonite lenses and XYZ optics for classic Oakley impact resistance, complete UV protection, and clarity. Oakley Bottlecap polarized lenses were also available in several colorways when released.
Lens colors are more varied than frame colors. You can find colorways such as emerald iridium polarized, black persimmon to grey transition, or ice iridium. Keep reading for our complete list of Bottlecap colorways below!
Original Colorways
The Bottlecap was produced in a variety of colorways while the XL variation was short-lived and only made in 2 options. We’ve included a complete listing of the colorways below for reference:
| Colorway (Frame / Lens) | Variation |
|---|---|
| Black Chrome / Black Persimmon to Grey Transition | Original |
| Black Chrome / Emerald Iridium Polarized | Original |
| Brown Smoke / Tungsten Iridium Polarized | Original |
| Brown Tortoise / Bronze Polarized | Original |
| Crystal Black / Black Iridium | Original |
| Dark Grey / Ice Iridium | Original |
| Honey / Bronze | Original |
| Plasma / Gold Iridium | Original |
| Polished Black / Black Iridium Polarized | Original |
| Polished Black / G30 Iridium | Original |
| Polished Black / Ice Iridium | Original |
| Polished Black / VR50 to Brown Transition | Original |
| Polished Rootbeer / Bronze | Original |
| Standard Issue Matte Black / Grey | Original |
| Brown Smoke / Tungsten Iridium | XL |
| Polished Black / Grey Polarized | XL |
Bottlecap vs. Bottlecap XL Sunglasses Comparison
The Oakley Bottlecap XL is just a larger version of the original frame. As we detailed in our Oakley Sunglasses Size Guide this is pretty standard for the XL variations.
The Bottlecap XL deepens the lens and increases the total size. If you find the Bottlecap a little too small or just prefer a bigger frame or lens, go with the XL. The Bottlecap XL lenses also feature HDOptics, a Hydrophobic coating that resists dirt, water, and skin oils.
We’ve included the lens size and dimensions across both frames below so you can compare:
| Bottlecap | Bottlecap XL | |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Width | 60mm | 60mm |
| Lens Height | 36mm | 40mm |
Are Bottlecap Replacement Lenses Available?
Yes, Oakley Bottlecap replacement lenses are available through a variety of retailers. Unfortunately, since this frame is discontinued Oakley no longer sells Bottlecap replacement lenses through their website. However you do still have options.
First, the Oakley Bottlecap can fit Half Jacket lenses which are much more common and easier to come by. But if you prefer to not take the risk, you can still buy replacement Bottlecap lenses through aftermarket suppliers.
Be sure to check out our complete guide and comparison of the top Oakley aftermarket replacement lenses!
Where to Buy Oakley Bottlecap Sunglasses?
Both the Bottlecap and the Bottlecap XL have been discontinued by Oakley. While you may still see them pop up when you search, you’ll find they’re out of stock everywhere online. But you’re not out of luck!
You can still find the Oakley Bottlecap sunglasses through aftermarket sites such as the Oakley Forum Exchange or eBay. However, be careful to verify whether they are standard or XL Bottlecaps and always know how to spot fake Oakleys. Be sure to check out our guide for more information on buying rare and discontinued Oakleys.
Final Thoughts
The Bottlecap and Bottlecap XL are overall a great but fairly routine Oakley half-rimmed sports performance frame. The overall size and contouring make the original variation a great option for small to medium faces.
But over time it’s likely these were replaced by more popular frames in the Oakley Jacket line including the Flak 2.0s. Still, we’ve got nothing against the Bottlecap frame. They just aren’t as collectible as an original Razor Blade, and may not be as wearable as a modern Flak or Plazma frame. But still, they have a solid place in Oakley history!
Are you a fan of the Oakley Bottlecap sunglasses? Or prefer the XL? Join the largest online Oakley community and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
