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Background and Release
Oakley introduced the Sutro in February of 2019 and it made a splash. Designed for cycling, the big, oversized frame is reminiscent of the iconic Eyeshade that started the Oakley sports performance revolution.
Back in 1985, Greg Lemond wore a pair of Oakley Eyeshades when he won the Tour de France. That single incident set the stage for Oakley’s marketing through athletes. It also marked the beginning of the company’s reputation for high-quality sport-specific sunglasses.
While mixing sports performance with lifestyle, the Sutro is a frame that feels both retro and new. Now Oakley has released four variations of the frame: the original Sutro, Sutro Lite, Sutro S, and Sutro Lite Sweep.
Keep reading as we review all four Sutro frames and compare them side by side!
Oakley Sutro Sunglasses Review
Sutro
The original Sutro (Product Link) is big and bold with a futuristic look. This frame is definitely made for big heads and faces.
Its full O Matter frame has a single shield lens that gives it a goggle-like look. And this large lens also provides fantastic coverage and protection made of impact-resistant Plutonite.
Plus the original Sutro sunglasses are available in a variety of colorways including contrast-enhancing Prizm lenses. For more information check out our full Oakley Sutro Review.
Sutro Highlights
- Large full rimmed frame made of lightweight O Matter material
- Unobtainium nosepads provide added grip and comfort even when wet
- Available with a variety of Prizm lenses including Prizm Road
Sutro Lite
Introduced in the fall of 2020, the Sutro Lite (Product Link) offers a toned-down design of the classic Sutro frame. Featuring a half-rim design that appears well “Liter” than the original. But this frame still has the signature large shield lens that merges performance and lifestyle.
Be sure to also check out our full Oakley Sutro Lite Review for more information!
Sutro Lite Highlights
- Lifestyle half-rim design made of lightweight O Matter material
- Signature large shield lens for maximum coverage
- Unobtainium nosepads and temples for added grip and comfort
Sutro S
Also introduced in the fall of 2020, the Sutro S (Product Link) is the smaller sibling of the original Sutro. Not made for kids like Oakley XS frames, this style is just scaled down to fit small to medium faces.
In scaling down the Sutro frame, Oakley still maintains the large visor frame and coverage. Plus you’ll notice the same classic Sutro full-frame design and angles on the earstems.
Make no mistake, the Sutro S is still big and bold but is more a medium-large frame rather than the original Sutro which is definitely a large-extra-large. For more information on finding the right fit, check out our complete Oakley Size Guide.
Sutro S Highlights
- Smaller Sutro frame based on the original design for medium to large faces
- Lightweight O Matter frame that is durable and comfortable
- Thin temples that fit well with hats and helmets
Sutro Lite Sweep
The latest addition to the Sutro family, the Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep features all-new venting within a similar half-frame design. Designed for cyclists, this pair can easily double as streetwear with its modern look.
But the Sutro Lite Sweep still packs plenty of eyewear innovation.
Along with available vented lenses for improved airflow, the Sutro Lite Sweep also features molded earsocks integrated into the temples. These low-profile rubber earsocks provide a secure fit without disturbing the silhouette of this frame. And these are the same design you’ll find on the all-new Oakley Kato.
And, like the rest of the Sutro Lineup, the Lite Sweep offers Oakley Prizm lens technology. Currently, this frame is available with Prizm Ruby, Prizm Trail Torch, and Prizm Road lens.
Read more in our Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep review.
Sutro Lite Sweep Highlights
- Sportier lens design inspired by the Oakley Eyeshade with available venting for increased airflow
- Integrated Unobtainium earsocks that keep your sunglasses securely on your face
- Unobtainium nosepads for a no-slip grip
Sutro vs. Sutro Lite vs. Sutro S vs. Sutro Lite Sweep
All four Sutro frames are very similar but there are some key differences. Mainly the size and design elements of the frames.
First, the Sutro and Sutro S are the same frame, just two different sizes. The Sutro S is not just smaller; it’s scaled down for smaller heads and faces. That means that the Sutro S offers the same high-quality optics as the Sutro, just in a smaller package.
In comparison, the Sutro Lite and Sutro Lite Sweep are a similar size as the original Sutro but with a different design. These sunglasses feature a semi-rimless frame design compared to the Sutro full-frame. Plus you’ll find Unobtainium on the insides of the Sutro Lite temples for additional grip.
Finally, the Sutro Lite Sweep adds a vented and sportier lens design to the Sutro Lite, while retaining the half-rim shield.
Check out the complete comparison in the graphic and size chart below:
Oakley Sutro Size Chart
| Sutro | Sutro Lite | Sutro Lite Sweep | Sutro S | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lens Width | 137mm | 139mm | 139mm | 128mm |
| Lens Height | 57mm | 58mm | 58mm | 55mm |
| Temple Length | 140mm | 138mm | 138mm | 134mm |
Where to Buy Oakley Sutro Sunglasses?
The Sutro Lite, Sutro S, and original model are all available directly through Oakley and authorized retailers. We’ve linked directly to each pair in the post above.
Since the Sutro frames are so similar it makes sense to try them on in person if possible. This will give you a better sense of the size and design that works best for your face.
But when it comes to buying, online is still your best bet. Unless there’s a sale or you’re at a Vault location, buying directly from Oakleys means you’re likely paying retail.
However, it’s not hard to find up to 20-30% off new Oakleys online in only a few seconds. Check out our guide to Never Pay Retail Again for Oakleys for more information.
Looking for more Information?
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