A Summer in the Field

At Optic Nerve, our purpose is simple: create a clearer view of what matters by producing purposeful eyewear for the outdoor-inspired. We believe that when people are active, they are happier, healthier, and more productive. That conviction drives us to make sure nothing stands in the way of getting outside. Whether that means competing at 12,000 feet or supporting the next generation of athletes in our local communities, we'll be there.

iCast | Orlando, FL

For 68 years, iCast in Orlando has served as the global center for the fishing and marine trade—bringing together manufacturers, outfitters, and anglers to celebrate product innovation.

Long hours on the water demand optics that eliminate blinding surface reflection and prevent eye fatigue without adding unnecessary weight. We spent the week collaborating directly with independent outfitters and marine dealers to showcase our HYDROGLARE™ and polarized lens tech. Partnering with independent local shops allows us to ensure anglers, recreational and professional alike, have access to high-caliber, protective eyewear without the unnecessary markups. Putting people above profits and taking care of our community along the way is the only way we do business.

Vail Recreation District Events

The Vail Recreation District operates with a clear mission: offering exceptional recreation opportunities that enhance the physical, social, and emotional well-being of mountain residents and guests across the White River National Forest. Local midweek race series form the backbone of mountain bike culture, creating a welcoming, healthy outlet for youth, families, and seasoned racers.

Midweek racing requires gear that stays out of your way. Rapid light transitions beneath the forest canopy and steep climbs demand lightweight endurance frames with zero-slip grips that keep vision crystal clear when heart rates spike. Supporting VRD events directly reinforces our belief that the outdoors is the world's best playground, fueling health and wellness close to home.

Beaver Creek Blast | Beaver Creek, CO

Weather forced a mid-summer reschedule to late July, but the energy underneath the Haymeadow Express Gondola remained untouched. Courses spanned from a punchy 2-mile junior loop up to a 16-mile endurance course descending Aspen Glade. We set up at the base area to support junior racers and adult field riders tackling variable light, high-speed descents, and sudden mountain weather shifts.

Our Premium Performance Sunglasses were the most popular shades at this event. The Photochromic Sunglasses captured riders' attention with their lenses that automatically adapt to changing light on the trails.

Arrowhead Half Marathon & 5k | Arrowhead, CO

Traversing Arrowhead, Bachelor Gulch, and Beaver Creek Resorts, the Arrowhead Half Marathon challenged runners with 3,000 feet of elevation gain over 13 miles. Athletes climbed the new Quiver Trail to the summit of Bachelor Gulch Mountain (9,560') before descending the Arrowhead Mountain Trail. For those looking for a fast, accessible option, the point-to-point 5K delivered a mostly downhill route dropping 940 feet from The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch.

From first-time 5K walkers to trail runners pushing up steep ascents, this event celebrates personal goals and the invigorating power of the sun. Being on the ground allowed us to support everyday enthusiasts as they soaked up Vitamin D, conquered obstacles, and experienced the sheer enjoyment of pursuing their passion.

By far our most popular pair of sunglasses at this event was the FixieBLAST Photochromic. With the largest transition range in our Photochromic Collection, from 100% VLT to 16% VLT, this pair of sunglasses can adapt to any light in any condition.

Leadville 100 MTB & Run

Few events test human determination like the Life Time Leadville Trail 100 series in Cloud City.

At 12,000 feet, UV exposure is extreme, dust is unrelenting, and gear failure is not an option. Leadville embodies pure fortitude—a commitment to go the extra mile even when it seems impossible. Seeing athletes push through the suffering to earn their silver and gold belt buckles proves why we put excruciating thoughtfulness into building durable, 100% UVA/UVB protective optics that never let you down.

Leadville 100 MTB | Leadville, CO

Founded in 1994, 100 miles of high-altitude mountain biking takes riders from 10,152 feet to a peak elevation of 12,600 feet at Columbine Mine. High-speed descents down rocky trails and grueling climbs like Columbine demand absolute visual clarity. Moving through intense sun and sudden tree-line shade at 12,000 feet leaves zero margin for lens distortion, fogging, or frames slipping down a sweat-soaked nose.

Unsurprisingly, the Photochromic Sunglasses captured riders' attention with their lenses that automatically adapt to changing light on the trails. The FixiePHENOM 2.0 Photochromic Sunglasses were our most popular pair of shades at this event, and for good reason! Their anti-slip, anti-fog technology paired with their photochromic lens makes them the perfect pair for technical trails with scattered shade.

Leadville 100 Run | Leadville, CO

First held in 1983 when miner Ken Chlouber sought to revitalize the town after the Climax Mine closure, this legendary ultramarathon covers 100 miles on foot—including two brutal ascents over 12,500-foot Hope Pass—requiring a level of mental and physical grit that few ever experience. Ultramarathon runners spend up to 30 continuous hours exposed to unrelenting high-altitude sun, biting winds, and kicking dust. We're right there with them, providing high-quality optics to keep their eyes protected from the harsh conditions on the trail.

While athletes conquer the challenging 100-mile course, spectators and supporters also need eye protection. Our Lifestyle Sunglasses Collection were popular throughout the event, with styles like the Fairplay and Wonderspoon flying off the shelves. These sunglasses are the perfect combination of style and protection.

Building the Future: COHSMTB League & The Bike Library

Founded in 2009, the Colorado High School Mountain Bike League (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit) has expanded to over 90 teams representing 180 high schools across four states. Their mission centers on fostering healthy habits, cultivating self-confidence, and building inclusive community through interscholastic racing.

We believe everyone’s eyes are deserving of quality protection. Partnering with COHSMTB allows us to put our values into action—creating real avenues for youth from all financial backgrounds to develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.

COHSMTB Bike Library

In partnership with the League and The Pro's Closet, the Bike Library breaks down financial barriers by equipping student-athletes with bikes and accessories to lower the barrier to entry in the sport. Initially opened in June 2026, this August, another eight student-athletes received Yeti ARC mountain bikes and accessories like Optic Nerve sunglasses to race on for the 2026 season. Read more about the Bike Library program here.

COHSMTB Race 1 | Frisco, CO

Standing at the start line for the opening race of the season revealed the true strength of youth cycling—thousands of student-athletes competing with camaraderie, focus, and joy. This race kicks off the 2026 season for the Colorado High-School Mountain Bike League. Every year we are excited to outfit young aspiring athletes with sunglasses engineered for cycling. Seeing the kids grow and develop throughout the season and over the years reminds us of why we do what we do. To help people reconnect with the outdoors and get outside.

Ready For What's Next?

Whether you are lining up for an ultra-endurance push, spending quiet hours on the water, or supporting grassroots sports in your hometown, getting outside is always worth it.

We're not done getting outside in our backyard yet. Here are some of the upcoming events we'll be at:

• COHSMTB Race 2
  • September 12, 2026 | Eagle, CO
• SCARPA Parking Lot Sale
  • September 12, 2026 | Boulder, CO
• Tour de Vineyards
  • September 19, 2026 | Palisade, CO
• COHSMTB Race 3
  • September 26, 2026 | Glenwood, CO
• Cougar Ridge Classic
  • September 26, 2026 | Vail, CO
• COHSMTB Race 4
  • October 10, 2026 | Nathrop, CO
• COHSMTB Race 5
  • October 24, 2026 | Glenwood, CO