Summary: When it comes to unique styles that truly stand out in a crowd, few brands do it better than Locs. As a West Coast icon, Locs has become intrinsically associated with the OG and Lowrider cultures. We have them here at OE Sunglasses.
Sunglasses are not just an accessory; they are the signature of a person's style. And on the West Coast, the most popular sunglasses are reminiscent of the hydraulic-powered boulevards of East L.A. and the hip-hop scene. Front and center are OG and Lowrider sunglasses from Locs.
Locs is a brand designed to represent the legacy of West Coast pride, privacy, and 'la Vida Loca'. If you know what all that means, you are familiar with West Coast culture. But even if not, a pair of Locs sunglasses would still look great on your face.
The Original Gangster Aesthetic
Locs OG sunglasses pay homage to the Original Gangster aesthetic birthed from 1970s and 80s Latino culture. The look did not appear by accident. It evolved from the idea of 'creasing up' as an act of social resistance. Those who developed the OG look believed that it was intimidating despite being polished.
OG sunglasses from Locs promote the decades-old culture in two ways:
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The Silhouette – Locs OE Sunglasses boast heavy frames and squared edges. They are complemented by lenses so dark you cannot see the eyes behind them. They create just the look an original gangster is after.
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The Statement – In OG culture, sunglasses are meant to make a statement. They suggest a kind of stoic confidence that says you mean business.
The OG look is intentional. It is thoughtful, bold, and unapologetic. Most importantly, it is incomplete without a pair of dark sunglasses that hide your intentions by hiding your eyes.
The Lowrider Culture
In addition to being synonymous with OG sunglasses, Locs is also known for its lowrider offerings. In East Los Angeles, lowriding is a cultural norm. It is about slowly cruising the streets while demanding respect. What many people don't understand about lowriding is its emphasis on, and attention to, detail.
Just like that '64 Impala needs the right pinstriping to get respect, the Lowrider needs the right eyewear whenever he goes cruising. Lowrider sunglasses are known for:
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A Unique Fit – Lowrider shades usually feature either wraparound frames or thick temples to block sunlight from the sides. That way, cruising with the top down is never uncomfortable on the eyes.
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Exquisite Detail – A good pair of lowriders features detailed silver or gold accents designed to mimic the healthy dose of chrome on a customized classic car or resto-mod.
Lowrider sunglasses are such statement makers that you cannot help but notice them. They are the perfect complement to an exquisitely maintained car that acts as an extension of its owner's personality.
The Legend of Locs Sunglasses
OG and lowrider sunglasses go hand-in-hand with West Coast culture. But it's nearly impossible to talk about the two styles without mentioning Locs. Originally popularized in the 80s and 90s by West Coast rap culture, the Locs brand eventually became synonymous with the culture's definitive hard look.
Locs offers the quintessential 'blacked out' shades OG and lowrider subcultures are known for. The brand's signature logo is aggressive, perfectly complementing the shape and unmistakable silhouette fans of both OG and lowrider sunglasses appreciate.
At OE Sunglasses, we carry the Locs brand because it has consistently remained the gold standard for capturing authentic street heritage in modern shades. If that is the look your customers are after, you absolutely need to carry Locs.
What's Under the Hood
When West Coast cruisers stop and park, the hoods come up. Everybody wants to see what is going on in the engine compartment. Likewise, you should probably understand what's 'under the hood' of every pair of Locs.
The Frames
Most Locs frames are made with high-quality polycarbonate – an impact-resistant, tough, and lightweight plastic material that resists sliding and doesn't put undue pressure on the nose. Frames are generally polished with a high-gloss coating or finished with a matte finish. Both looks are stealthy and designed for a low-profile aesthetic.
The real magic of the brand is in the metal accents. Many Locs models are known for their pin hinges and silver-tone metal logos on the temples. Some models even include metal tips, then add extra weight to the arms. Bikers seem to appreciate the metal tips.
The Lenses
The lenses are the most important feature of the OG style. They need to be dark enough to fully shield the eyes but still light enough to enable safe driving.
Lenses are typically made of shatterproof polycarbonate. Being shatterproof is essential, especially if you are cruising with the top down or riding a motorcycle. The last thing you need is a pebble flying up and breaking your shades.
The super dark lenses associated with the OG style are achieved with darker tints. Locs usually relies on Category 3 or 4 tinting that goes even darker than your typical standard sunglasses. The dark tinting is especially good for combating that bright L.A. sunshine.
Just remember that dark tinting is only effective against direct sunlight. It is in no way related to UV protection. Still, the Locs brand features UV400 protection, meaning the lenses block 99.9% of all harmful UVA and UVB rays.
Different Locs Variations
Every brand has its variations, and Locs is no exception. For example, many of their models feature polarized lenses made with a multi-layer triacetate cellulose filter. They are uniquely designed to cut down on glare from chrome bumpers and asphalt. They are targeted specifically at lowrider owners.
Other variations feature different types of printed patterns. For example, you might have a pair boasting a printed polymer that mimics expensive wood. Another pair might feature a bandana print aesthetic.
The bottom line is that Locs is the brand that has consistently defined the OG and Lowrider cultures of East Los Angeles. We carry the brand here at OE Sunglasses, offering all the latest Locs selections at the wholesale prices you have come to appreciate.
FAQs
What are Locs sunglasses?
Locs is a legendary eyewear brand birthed on the West Coast and known for super dark lenses and thick, black frames. The brand is associated with the OG and Lowrider cultures.
Why are Locs sunglasses so dark?
Locs uses darker tints to ensure privacy and offer extra protection against direct sunlight.
Is Locs the only brand of lowrider sunglasses?
While Locs and lowrider are synonymous with many people, other brands make lowrider sunglasses as well. Lowriders are known for their wraparound frames and detailed chrome and metal accents.
Are OG sunglasses the same as lowriders?
The OG is a classic design similar to lowriders. However, OG sunglasses do not feature the same detail and polish. They tend to be much darker and privacy-oriented.
Can I get polarized OG and lowrider sunglasses?
Absolutely. Polarized lenses are fairly common across nearly every style of sunglasses.
What face shapes go best with OG styles?
Square frames, wider bridges, and longer temples can accommodate a variety of face shapes. They generally fit medium and larger faces best.
