As Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes struts into Arrowhead Stadium this year, he’ll have a distinct, new look.
Oakley released his newest signature line of sunglasses: the Latch Panel Patrick Mahomes II Collection.
“It’s functionally designed and elevates his off-the-field style,” Corey Hill, Oakley’s vice president of global sports marketing, exclusively shared. “It’s a really great piece.”
Oakley not only supplies the helmet visors for NFL players, but it also counts Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James and Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown among its spokesmen.
But Mahomes, who has been with the brand for five years, is the only NFL player with a signature Oakley frame. Oakley releases signature Mahomes sunglasses every fall to coincide with the start of the football season.
“To have the opportunity to launch my own signature series that represents who I am as an athlete,” Mahomes said in a statement, “has been an honor.”
Because Mahomes is so adept at seeing his receivers anywhere on the field — even in his periphery on his famous no-look passes — Oakley views him as the perfect athlete to promote its eyewear.
“It’s inspired by his vision on the field,” Hill said.
Having thrown for six touchdowns, six interceptions and just 1,235 yards through five games, Mahomes has regressed statistically this year, but he is the leader on the only undefeated team in the AFC, which is considered the favorite to win another Super Bowl.
And the two-time regular-season MVP and three-time Super Bowl champion remains the face of the NFL.
“Obviously, his on-the-field accolades speak for themselves,” Hill said.
Oakley sees Mahomes, whose dazzling playing style and even Mohawk fade hairstyle are unorthodox, as a perfect fit for its “Be Who You Are” campaign, which celebrates self-expression.
The Mahomes Signature Series Latch Panel retails for $240 and was first released on Sept. 22. It features a gold frame that pays homage to Mahomes’ record-breaking achievements and pursuit of excellence.
And it’s also appropriate for Mahomes, who gave color and design input to Oakley before the launch, to want a golden look, considering his love of shiny, metallic colors. He even named his children Sterling Skye and Patrick “Bronze” Lavon III.
“It definitely is a Patrick thing,” Hill said.
Mahomes’ logo adorns the sides, and the Mahomes Signature Series Latch Panel has Prizm lens technology to enhance color and contrast. Its side shields have a secure latch mechanism to reduce peripheral glare.
That latter feature helps block out light so one can zone in. That aspect should serve as good preparation for Mahomes as he heads into each Chiefs game.
“When Patrick’s wearing them on his tunnel walk,” Hill said, “he’s getting really focused on actually going out and dominating.”
