This is our review of the sustainable brand Spektrum and their sunglasses. Brands are definitely getting the message that their consumers want sustainable and where possible eco friendly products. Does this compromise on quality though? We think not.
Over the last few years there have been some really big shifts in the way companies are engaging with the consumer on this level. Offering repairs, selling second hand or refurbished gear and of course looking at the CO2 impact of the product. In fact, brands that are not picking up on this, are beginning to feel put to one side. As a consumer, the onus is on us to vote with our feet and ensure this movement continues.
Don’t think short term
Buying cheap maybe good for your pocket, albeit in the short-term, but it’s more often than not, the bad option for the planet, and doubly worse knowing you will likely have to replace it fairly soon. How durable is that product? Can you get spare parts? Is there a repair service? It’s far better to buy something that you use for life, aided by some minor maintenance, rather buying fast, cheap, disposable fashion that really only will last one season.
At Run the Wild, we’ve always been conscious of how we impact the planet. We engage with its beauty on every level through what we do, and we believe through education more runners will respect the wild. It’s why you get enviro facts on all of our runs. We know we can and need to do more, we all do. With this in mind we’ve been looking at sustainable brands and managed to get our hands on a pair of sunglasses from Spektrum, a brand trying to incorporate sustainability in what they do.
Spektrum and sustainability
Spektrum originate from Sweden, and unlike most other manufacturers have been incorporating bio-based products in their production. So rather than just plastic, they are using castor oil alongside recycled plastics. That makes their construction of frames 64% bio or recycled. Of course, this always leads to the question of what sacrifices have had to be made in the quality of the product and just as importantly how sustainable is sustainable?
Well first off, the sustainability. It seems like Spektrum gets this, they really have dug down to the roots of the solution, ensuring no deforestation occurs in order to cultivate the bio element, the castor beans, plus no use of GMO. There are other aspects that come to light as a result of their research and production; less use of harmful chemicals, water usage, rights for farmers, the effects are far and wide. As a result, compared to standard manufacture, the Spektrum sunglasses have reduced their carbon footprint by 46%, that’s impressive. If you want to know more head to their website.
Second, the sunglasses. Are they any good? A sustainable product not only needs to consider carefully it’s impact on the planet and make changes to reduce it, but it also needs to be fit for purpose! This summer, we’ve been testing the Anjan Cobalt Blue both in the UK and also high up in the Alps. Here is our conclusion.
Sun protection
great, the lenses are beautifully clear, anti-scratch, water repellent and everything you want in a high-quality lens. The lenses are also interchangeable. We hope they bring out a photochromic option in the future. We also recommend looking at their styles that wrap around your face to reduce light coming in around the frame, of which there are plenty of options. These might be better suited to running trail like the ‘Blank’ frames.
Look
depends on the style you are looking for; the range is big but we liked the look of these sunglasses we tested.
Comfort
super comfy and sat snuggly on the head, definitely no risk of these accidentally slipping off.
Durability
not had any scratches yet and we hope they would be repaired if needed to be, so far so good!
Summary
In all a big thumbs up from us! It’s also nice knowing a bit more about the origination of the product you are wearing, especially its reduced impact on the planet. It’s just as important to understand about the wild as a trail runner, as it is to know how ethical or sustainable a product is as a consumer.
Good work Spektrum, we love your core values and hope this continues to put pressure on other companies to do more. That, often requires the consumer to make the first move. Ask about the sustainability of the products you buy. Make the choice based on it lasting for life and understand what it is you are really buying. Love your planet and see you on the trails!
