OTIS Sunglasses Review: Built for Life by the Sea

At Surfd.com, we don’t just review good-looking gear—we want stuff that holds up to real life. Salt, sun, scratches, getting tossed in the back of the car or buried in a sandy beach bag—it’s got to survive it all. The gear we back is the kind you can wear for years, that feels good on your face, and doesn’t leave a trail of waste behind.

That’s why we were excited to get our hands on a couple of pairs from OTIS Eyewear. They’ve nailed that rare balance: timeless style, technical performance, and a real commitment to the planet. In a world full of cheap, throwaway sunnies, OTIS is doing things differently—and doing them right.

OTIS CURRENTS

Geniya is wearing Currents – Polarised Lens in Eco Black / Grey

Minimalist with a bold streak, the CURRENTS frame takes a classic cat-eye and gives it a modern twist. The bevelled corners add a touch of edge, while the sleek silhouette keeps things versatile—whether you’re navigating the city or checking the surf.

Also made from handcrafted Eco-Acetate, the Currents frame feels substantial yet comfortable enough for all-day wear. The grey polarised lenses are a solid choice for full-sun adventures, cutting glare without messing with color perception.

What stood out:

  • The classic silhouette with a twist—it’s bold without being flashy.
  • The polarised grey lenses are perfect for full-sun exposure, reducing glare without distorting colors.
  • They feel durable but elegant—ideal for those who want a little sophistication in their adventure kit.

My favorite cat-eye sunglasses—such a smooth, flattering design and perfect fit. I love the retro vibe, and they work with everything in my wardrobe, casual or dressy. – Geniya

Discover the CURRENTS in Eco Black / Grey Polar

OTIS INTERLUDE

Geniya is wearing Interlude – Polarised Lens in Eco Crystal Fern / Brown Polar

The INTERLUDE has that timeless square frame silhouette, but with subtle details that elevate it from basic to bold. Think metal temple accents, a keyhole nose bridge, and refined curves that soften the edges. It’s a shape that flatters most faces, and the Eco Crystal Fern colorway gives it a gentle, earthy pop without being loud.

The real magic, though, is in the materials. OTIS uses Eco-Acetate, which means these frames aren’t just stylish—they’re biodegradable at end of life. They’re also fitted with mineral glass lenses, which are more scratch-resistant and optically superior to plastic alternatives. This isn’t just marketing fluff; out in the elements—sun, salt, and spray—these lenses hold their own beautifully.

What we noticed:

  • The brown polarised lenses are great for early morning or late arvo sessions—warm, crisp contrast without feeling too dark.
  • The fit is snug without pinching, and the stainless-steel hinges are solid but smooth.
  • They feel substantial in the hand, but light on the face—a balance we always appreciate.

Absolutely love the OTIS Interludes. Very stylish, awesome design, and incredibly comfortable. I particularly enjoy wearing them early in the morning or at sunset—everything just looks better. – Geniya

Discover the INTERLUDE in Eco Crystal Fern / Brown Polar

What Makes OTIS Different: Sustainability That’s More Than a Buzzword

In a world overflowing with fast fashion and throwaway plastic, OTIS is cutting a different path. Their mission is clear: make sunglasses that are built to last and built with purpose—without compromising on style or performance.

Here’s how they’re walking the talk:

Mineral Glass Lenses

Forget flimsy plastic. OTIS uses mineral glass—a lens material made from natural elements like sand, soda ash, and limestone. It’s:

  • Incredibly scratch-resistant (seriously, it’s the toughest lens material out there)
  • Distortion-free for razor-sharp clarity
  • Thermally hardened to handle life’s knocks
  • Permanently tinted, so the colour stays true, year after year
  • Non-toxic and endlessly recyclable

In other words, these lenses are made to go the distance—whether you’re surfing, hiking, road-tripping, or just soaking up some sun.

Eco-Acetate & EcoGrilamid Frames

The frames are just as considered. OTIS uses Eco-Acetate, a plant-based material that biodegrades over time—so when your sunnies eventually retire, they don’t stick around forever in landfill.

They also offer frames made from EcoGrilamid—a high-performance material made with 50% renewable castor oil. It’s ultra-light, ultra-tough, and built for active lives.

Certified B Corp Since 2022

Since becoming a B Corp, OTIS has joined a global community of businesses committed to doing good—not just doing business. From their materials to their packaging to how they operate, OTIS is focused on accountability, transparency, and long-term impact.

Smarter Packaging, Too

No plastic wrap. No unnecessary waste. OTIS sunglasses come in recyclable cardboard packaging, wrapped in a cleaning cloth made from recycled PET bottles. It’s a small detail—but it says a lot.

Final Verdict: OTIS Nails It

The INTERLUDE and CURRENTS sunglasses prove that style and sustainability can not only coexist—but thrive together. With mineral glass lenses, thoughtful frame design, and a clear environmental mission, OTIS stands out as a leader in ethical eyewear.

If you’re after sunglasses that look good, feel incredible, perform under pressure, and align with your values, OTIS is a clear winner.