One major complaint about frameless sport sunglasses is that the lens can offer a little more flex than desired. For some this results is a less than secure fit, especially over time. Everybody loves the lightweight, excellent field of view and clean aesthetics. For cyclists a secondary issue has been that the arm lengths of many shield and frameless glasses have been too long, especially with current helmet designs. With the Encoder, Oakley has devised a shield style lens with a frameless, arm-only design that offers better stiffness from some shaped edges at the top off the lens and at the nose opening. The weight is kept low, the optics are optimal, and fit is superb for most people who head/face shape and size fits medium frame designs, with effective control in slightly larger and smaller faces. Oakley also shortened the arm length to reduce the risk of helmet interaction, taking advantage of the better fit tension consistency as well as their superior hydrophilic Unobtanium® ear socks and nose pads.

The Encoder has been purpose-built for use across multiple sport categories. It is a sport performance style truly designed with hat and helmet fit functionality in mind, so runners, cyclists, XC skiers, baseball and softball players will have a better set-up. The progressive lens wrap design creates a unique look with superior coverage and enhanced field of view. The extended wrap of lens, coupled with calibrated rigidity and low-profile temples make Encoder an obvious choice for a broad range of sports across a variety of light conditions because Oakley's optical technology, especially with the Prizm series lenses, deliver multiple interchangeable options, as well as increased contrast, better color differentiation, and the clarity of the HDO lens development that has been a huge driver of the company's success in the sport, casual, tactical, and professional markets.