Eyewear plays a fundamental role in sports, both in protecting the eyes and enhancing athletic performance. Seeing an opportunity to stand out in this market, Óptica Médica de São Vicente, located at 1499 Rua 1º de Maio in Alfena, has embraced this niche.
When arriving at Óptica Médica de São Vicente, in Alfena, the first thing that catches the eye—before even stepping inside—is a large Oakley sign above the entrance. Located in a town with many athletes and cyclists, manager Joaquim Santos says that investing in this brand was the natural choice. “There really was no other path. I often joke that if I sold a pair of glasses for every cyclist that rides past this street, I’d probably be the best cycling eyewear salesperson in the Iberian Peninsula.” When asked why Oakley was the brand of choice, he notes that it is one of the world’s most recognized names in sports eyewear, known for innovation, quality, and technologically advanced designs tailored for athletic performance and eye protection. “Choosing Oakley for sports eyewear means choosing maximum protection, comfort, performance, and confidence—qualities that come from decades of technological research dedicated to both professional and amateur sports. That’s why, at Óptica Médica de São Vicente, we choose Oakley.”
As for the features athletes value most in sports eyewear, Joaquim Santos explains that it depends on individual needs. “Athletes should be able to focus entirely on performance, and glasses must be a safe and efficient accessory. The most sought-after features include UV protection, comfort, and proper fit—achieved through lightweight, flexible, and durable materials—as well as designs that sit securely on the face to prevent slipping during physical activity. Moreover, high-quality lenses are essential: polarized lenses minimize glare and reflections, while photochromic lenses—now highly in demand—adapt automatically to changes in light, ensuring visual comfort across different environments.”
Beyond these performance requirements, customization has become one of the most frequent requests. “We transform glasses into unique pieces. The customization process is designed to reflect the wearer’s style and personality. From the selection of colors and textures to the application of exclusive finishes, we give new life to eyewear for those who want to add a special touch to their look,” adds Joaquim Santos.
Read the full feature in ÓpticaPro 268.
