MYKITA & Moncler both stand for innovative and unique products of the highest quality, coupled with traditionalist brand philosophies. These shared values inspired the two companies to join forces in a project which aims to explore new and untapped territories in the eyewear market.
In July 1954 Lino Lacedelli and Achille Compagnoni became the first men to conquer the second highest mountain in the world (K2). Equipped with oxygen, climbing spikes, mountaineer goggles and specially made down jackets by Moncler, the Italians reached the summit. Harking back to the origins of the former outfitter of Alpine expeditions, the collaboration resulted in two models whose material selection and design both take into account what were already key factors among mountaineers back then: modern 21st century sports goggles have to be light, durable and adjustable.
A homage to the mountain and its conquerors was created in the form of the two models, LINO and ACHILLE, which are suitable both for downhill runs and also as classic sunglasses for everyday use – they are sporty as well as the perfect everyday accessory. The frames are inspired by the look of 1950s Alpine goggles, which featured round lenses in metal rims with leather side pieces for ultimate protection against the light.
ACHILLE, with its straight top line and broad frame is the more avant-garde model of the pair, a retro-futuristic new look. LINO’s sweeping top line and slim frame make this model a modern counterpart to the glacier snow glasses of yesteryear. The swept-back frame edge in both unisex models reflects the look of that era; the original leather sections
on the sides and bridge to protect against the glare are today revisited via the flared frames.
A critical factor for the design process was the new material MYLON, developed and patented by MYKITA after years of research. The polyamide-based material is being used in eyewear production for the first time and displays the features of the desired attributes: light, extremely durable and individually adjustable to the wearer are the key advantages of this new material.
Red and blue are a throwback to the first Moncler down coats that were originally sold in those colours in the early 1960s. Both models are available in the colours Red/Red flash mirror, Blue/Blue flash mirror as well as in a classic Black/Black flash mirror, in each case with mirrored lenses in the same colour or alternatively with solid grey-tinted lenses. The frames are fitted with mineral glass lenses from traditional Italian manufacturer Barberini, boasting excellent durability and clarity of vision.
All lenses reveal the MYKITA & Moncler logo when breathed on. An anti-fog finish on the inside of the lenses plus an anti-scratch outer coating make these spectacles a top-calibre sporting companion. The glasses come with a padded sleeping bag style carry pouch for easy transport in addition to a black glasses case and box.
The models comprising the MYKITA & Moncler collaboration are available by Mid December 2011 only at
MYKITA shops and Moncler boutiques worldwide.
Video by Stefan Heinrichs and Samuel Perriard
