Oakley Sutro sunglasses are the most popular shield performance lifestyle sunglasses in Oakley’s lineup. And now, with the introduction of the Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep sunglasses, they’re going retro!
But how do these new Sutros actually perform?
Keep reading as we review and cover everything to know about the new Sutro Lite Sweep.
Table of Contents
Going Retro with the Sutro
The new Sutro Lite Sweep sunglasses merges the classic Eyeshade lens with Oakley’s popular Sutro frame design. And the result is a retro yet modern pair of sunglasses that definitely makes a statement!
Oakley released the Sutro Lite Sweep in January of 2021 after first “Pre-releasing” the pair on their website.
Now let’s jump into what makes these sunglasses unique.
Sutro Lite Sweep Overview
- Functional sport design combining the retro Oakley Eyeshade lens shape with the modern Sutro frame
- Vented lens design for increased airflow to keep you cool, no matter what life throws at you
- Made of lightweight O Matter frame material that is durable and comfortable all day
- Integrated molded earsocks in the frame and Unobtainium nosepads provide a no-slip grip
- Available with contrast-enhancing Prizm lens technology
- Impact-resistant Plutonite lenses provide 100% protection against UVA, UVB and UVC rays
- Great for Medium and Large faces or wearers who like an oversized look
Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep Review
We got our hands on a pair of Sutro Lite sunglasses in Tennis Ball Yellow with Prizm Ruby lenses (Product Link) at our local Oakley store (thanks again, guys), and we have to say, this pair surprised us!
Keep reading to find out exactly why.
Initial Impressions
Going into this review – the one question we kept asking is, do we really need another Sutro? Oakley already has the Sutro, Sutro Lite, and Sutro S. And while they all have their differences, that’s a lot of shield sunglasses!
But when we first tried on the Sutro Lite – these were different.
Gone are the squared-off shield lenses that make the Sutro great for maximum coverage and large faces. Instead, the Sutro Lite Sweep is tamer, smaller and more wearable.
Frame, Design and Molded Earsocks
The Sutro Lite Sweep features an O Matter frame that is light and comfort to wear. Overall the frame is similar to the original Sutro Lite, with a single large piece extending across the brow line and a half-rim design.
And while this has been coined a minimalist design, it definitely isn’t understated. Like the original Sutro and Sutro Lite, these are still the large and in-charge type of eyewear.
But the feature we loved the most on the Sutro Lite Sweep was its integrated earsocks.
Molded Earsocks
Like the Oakley Kato, the Sutro Sweep features integrated earsocks molded into the temples.
Especially for Oakley sunglasses with thinner ear stems, we love this new design element since you get all the benefits of no-slip Unobtainium without ruining the frame silhouette.
Overall, this is a massive upgrade from the current Sutro family!
Eyeshade Inspired Lens
The biggest upgrade in this frame is the Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep’s lenses, inspired by the original Eyeshade silhouette. And it definitely delivers!
The Sutro Lite features a larger ventilated Prizm lens designed to improve airflow. And even from just looking at them, the Sweep lens gives these glasses a more modern look.
When we first saw these online, we were worried that the new lens shape (similar to Radars) would make this pair too sporty. But it gives them a more casual feel.
Prizm Lenses
We tried our Sweep with a Prizm Ruby lens that added a fantastic pop of color. And since we’ve already reviewed Prizm Ruby, we won’t go into too much detail on them here.
But all of the Sutro Lite Sweep colorways (list below) feature Prizm lenses, including Prizm Road and Trail Torch.
Size and Dimensions
The Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep has the same frame and dimensions as the Sutro Lite, but the Sweep lens shape helps it have a smaller feel that’s great for medium and large-size heads.
We’ve included the full size and dimensions below:
- Lens Height: 58mm
- Lens Width: 136mm
- Bridge: 18mm
- Frame Width: 132.6mm
- Temple Length: 138mm
For more, check out our guide to Oakley Sunglasses for Big Heads!
Available Colorways
Currently, the Sutro Lite Sweep is available in 3 colorways retailing for $189:
- Orange Frame / Prizm Trail Torch
- Tennis Ball Yellow Frame / Prizm Ruby
- Pink Frame / Prizm Road
Our Review – Are They Worth It?
Yes, we’d recommend the Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep if you’re looking for maximum lens coverage in a modern pair of sunglasses that makes a statement.
This is now our favorite frame in the Sutro family, thanks to its curved lens shape making the Sutro Lite Sweep less boxy than some of its siblings. And while we didn’t necessarily want a new version of the Sutro, apparently we needed it.
Overall, these are definitely worth a look, especially if you have a large or wide face.
Sutro Lite vs. Sutro Lite Sweep – Differences Explained
While the Sutro Lite and Sutro Lite Sweep are both very similar, there are some key differences to these frames:
- Lens Shape – The Sweep features sportier lenses inspired by the Oakley Eyeshade, compared to the Sutro’s Lite’s squared shield lens
- Vented Lenses – Sutro Lite Sweep lenses feature venting in the top of the lens to provide additional airflow
- Integrated Earsocks -Sutro Lite Sweep sunglasses include Unobtainium earsocks molded to the temples for additional grip, while the original Lite does not feature any earsocks.
You can see the two frames side-by-side in the graphic below and read more in our Sutro vs. Sutro Lite vs. S comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to Buy Oakley Sutro Lite Sweeps?
You can buy Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep sunglasses directly from Oakley’s website (Product Link) or your local authorized retailer.
If you’re looking to try these sunglasses on, your best bet will be a local Oakley store. However, because this frame is so new, we’d be surprised to see them at any Oakley Vault locations for a while.
But if you’re looking to save, you may be able to score 20-30% off during the next Oakley sale. Check out our guide to Oakley’s Sales Schedule for more information.
Are Replacement Sutro Lite Sweep Lenses Available?
Yes, Replacement Sutro Lite lenses (Product Link) are available directly from Oakley. And since both the Sutro Lite and Sweep share the same frame, you can swap lenses between these two frames.
Plus, Oakley will likely release vented Sutro Lite Sweep lenses soon enough, which means you can get the same look if you already own the Sutro Lite.
If you’re looking to save on replacement Sutro Lite Sweep lenses, aftermarket lens suppliers are your best option, where you can usually find lenses for under $50. Check out our Best Oakley Replacement Lenses guide for more.
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