The intersection of fashion and technology is one of the biggest stories in accessories right now. As eyewear evolves from a simple style choice to a fully functional tech device, more brands are experimenting with smart glasses. One of the most interesting collaborations to emerge is between Oakley and Meta. The result is the Oakley Meta HSTN – a futuristic take on connected eyewear that combines Oakley’s performance-driven design with Meta’s smart technology.
But what makes these glasses stand out? And are they worth the investment? Here’s everything you need to know about the Oakley Meta HSTN.
What Are Oakley Meta HSTN Glasses?
The Oakley Meta HSTN is a smart eyewear model that merges Oakley’s bold HSTN frame design with Meta’s wearable tech platform. It follows the growing trend of fashion brands collaborating with tech giants to create stylish, functional smart glasses.
Like the Ray-Ban Meta range, the HSTN integrates features such as built-in speakers, voice control, and hands-free camera use. The difference lies in the design. Oakley has taken its distinct futuristic, sport-luxe aesthetic and reimagined it for a smart lifestyle product.
Key Features of Oakley Meta HSTN
The Oakley Meta HSTN isn’t just about looks. It is built with practical features designed for everyday wear and connectivity:
- Discreet Camera – A small forward-facing camera allows you to capture photos and short videos hands-free.
- Open-Ear Speakers – Audio is delivered via built-in speakers in the arms, letting you listen to music or take calls while staying aware of your surroundings.
- Meta AI Voice Assistant – Interact hands-free with Meta’s AI for navigation, messaging, or quick information.
- Touch Controls – Swipe and tap gestures along the temple allow you to adjust volume or playback quickly.
- Meta View App Integration – Content can be stored, edited, and shared directly through the companion app.
Design: The Oakley Edge
Bold and Futuristic Styling
The HSTN frame design was first launched by Oakley as a statement piece within its lifestyle collection. It features round, exaggerated lenses and a thick sculpted frame, delivering an unapologetically bold silhouette.
When reimagined with Meta, the look stays intact. Unlike many smart glasses that prioritise subtlety, the Oakley Meta HSTN leans into futuristic streetwear appeal.
Colourways and Lens Options
Oakley offers the Meta HSTN in a range of colourways and lens choices, including tinted lenses for outdoor wear and clear lenses for everyday use. Prescription options are also available, widening its appeal.
Comfort and Wearability
Despite its chunky look, the Oakley Meta HSTN is surprisingly comfortable. The arms are slightly thicker than standard Oakleys to house the tech, but the weight distribution is well-balanced.
For those already familiar with Oakley’s lifestyle frames, the fit will feel natural. They’re suitable for long periods of wear, though slightly heavier than a standard fashion frame.
Performance: Do They Deliver?
Audio Quality
The open-ear audio is clear for calls and casual music listening, though it won’t replace dedicated headphones. Sound leakage can occur in very quiet spaces, but outdoors it feels natural and discreet.
Camera Performance
The camera quality is good enough for social media and casual recording. It won’t match a smartphone, but it excels at capturing hands-free, point-of-view moments.
Battery Life
Expect around 4–6 hours of active use, similar to the Ray-Ban Meta range. For all-day wear, you’ll need to recharge, but for commutes, content creation, or workouts, it’s sufficient.
Who Are Oakley Meta HSTN Glasses For?
The Oakley Meta HSTN appeals to a slightly different audience than Ray-Ban’s Meta collection. While Ray-Ban leans into timeless style, Oakley targets trendsetters, athletes, and urban streetwear fans.
They are ideal for:
- Content Creators – Hands-free POV filming and easy social uploads.
- Fashion-Forward Consumers – Those who prefer bold, futuristic eyewear.
- Active Lifestyles – People who want eyewear that blends Oakley’s sport-luxe edge with modern tech.
Oakley Meta HSTN vs Ray-Ban Meta
One of the biggest questions is how the Oakley Meta HSTN compares to Ray-Ban Meta glasses.
- Style: Ray-Ban Meta is classic and understated, while Oakley Meta HSTN is bold and futuristic.
- Audience: Ray-Ban appeals to fashion traditionalists; Oakley targets streetwear and sport-inspired consumers.
- Functionality: Both share similar Meta tech features — camera, audio, and AI — though Oakley’s frames are slightly larger to accommodate design.
- Price: Both sit in the same premium bracket, starting around £299+ depending on lens options.
Privacy Considerations
As with all smart glasses, privacy is a key concern. The discreet camera may raise questions in social settings, though an LED light indicates when recording is active.
For content creators, this may feel liberating. For everyday users, it’s worth considering where and when you’ll wear them, as not all environments will feel comfortable for hands-free recording.
Price and Availability
The Oakley Meta HSTN is priced from around £399 in the UK, with additional costs for prescription or speciality lenses. They are available through Oakley’s official site, select eyewear retailers, and Meta’s online platform.
Given the combination of Oakley’s style credibility and Meta’s tech, the price is in line with other premium smart glasses.
Pros and Cons of Oakley Meta HSTN
Pros:
- Bold Oakley HSTN design stands out
- Integrated Meta smart features
- Good balance of fashion and functionality
- Comfortable for long wear
- Multiple lens options, including prescription
Cons:
- Expensive compared to non-tech Oakley frames
- Battery life limited to a few hours
- Audio not as strong as dedicated headphones
- Privacy concerns in public spaces
Final Verdict: Are Oakley Meta HSTN Worth It?
The Oakley Meta HSTN is one of the boldest smart eyewear launches to date. It successfully combines Oakley’s distinctive, fashion-forward design with Meta’s connected technology, offering a product that is both stylish and functional.
For those who value Oakley’s sport-luxe aesthetic and want to experiment with wearable tech, the HSTN is worth the investment. It won’t replace your smartphone or headphones, but it will enhance your lifestyle by making connectivity more seamless.
If you’re fashion-conscious, tech-curious, and not afraid of standing out, the Oakley Meta HSTN is a smart eyewear choice to watch in 2025.