New: woodshades

Woods are shady but shades have not generally been woody. Until now.

Although he usually sticks to travel writing, Don Pinnock found these awesome shades and had to share.

Ballo dark glasses are handmade in Cape Town and are laminated from wood offcuts, recycled paper and high-density rubber. Despite these unusual materials, they’re extremely strong and durable.

Product designer Alistair Barnes came up with the idea and teamed up with engineer Izak Meyer, who explored manufacturing possibilities. They produce around 500 a month.

‘Hand crafting does limit production,’ says Alistair, ‘ but there’s a couple of hours of love and attention in each frame. And each one is unique.’

The high-quality, polarized lenses are imported, though local, prescription lenses can be used. The shades come in various styles and include a hand-crafted wooden box.

They cost R1200 in shops and R950 in markets of if ordered direct.

Contact Ballo at www.ballo.co.za or call 082 444 9271.