Gimme Proof
Gotta Wear Shades
Published: 6/16/2021
By: Gordon Dawson
While visiting family in Dallas, I stumbled across a unique store, Nomad 6920, selling all kinds of outdoor gear, accessories, clothing, and shoes. As we meandered around the store, I noticed a display containing a variety of sunglasses. Unlike normal sunglasses, these were made of wood. I became fascinated with the various shaped frames' unique appearance and inquired about this one particular style.
Called the Carver Wood, it is the classic round frame but made from Mahogany with the bonus of a brown fade polarized lens. I wasn't necessarily looking for the polarized lens as this usually adds more to the price tag, but I treated it like a give-away to own the better specs with these being so reasonably priced. The store owner provided me with another exciting element, the brand's story.
Proof Eyewear, started in Idaho in 2010 by three brothers from a milling family who wanted to build an eco-friendly wood consumer product to give back to the community. Since then, the company has continued to grow and expand, going from their garage to a globally recognized company within a few short years. Proof stands on three principles: heritage, sustainability, and giving back. They embrace the idea of being global citizens by doing good around the world. Thus, the bird logo represents the belief, "Everyone has wings to fly, some just need a little help." Today, Proof gives $10 from each frame purchase directly to their "Do Good" program, giving local and global projects.
As of 2021, Proof decided while they wait for international travel to become safe again, they would partner with Eden Restoration to plant five trees from every frame sold. https://edenprojects.org/faqs/
Get in the tank: the brothers took their company pitch to the Shark Tank, looking for an investment of $150K in return for a 10% stake in the company. Although Daymond John, Lori Greiner, and Mark Cuban raved about the company and their current successes, certain obstacles prevented them from getting in the "offer" game. However, Kevin O'Leary offered to give the $150K in return for 25% and wanted $2.50 from each pair sold until his investment was repaid, then the royalty drops to $1.00 from every pair sold. Robert Herjavec countered, making the same offer as O'Leary but without the royalties. The brothers made a counter of their own, which neither shark entertained, and the brothers walked away without a deal. Since then, sales have steadily increased year over year.
→ Shark Tank Pitch
Without question, these sunglasses have become the best pair I've ever owned. I appreciate the attention to detail, the clever use of wood, and knowing that a part of my purchase went towards helping others.
Context
Thoughts
– What is your favorite accessory?
– Do you have a charity you support?
– Have you ever thought of pitching an idea on Shark Tank?
