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There is no shortage of Grateful Dead merch available online, but the band is hoping its latest collaboration will really knock fans out.
Grateful Dead have teamed up with eyewear brand Knockaround for a new collection of unisex sunglasses, which apply the band’s famous iconography to Knockaround’s bold, modern (and yes, durable) frames. The officially-licensed collaboration is available now at knockaround.com with pricing starting at $40.
The “Roses” sunglasses feature a color-blocked design inspired by the Grateful Dead’s iconic skull and roses motif. The chunky frames are rendered in a jet black colorway, with rose detailing along the bottom and arms. Subtle nods to the Dead abound, from the row of dancing skeletons etched into the inside of the arms, to the instantly recognizable Grateful Dead logo on the temples. Knockaround says these frames “elegantly balance the dark and the delicate.”
The collection also includes a pair of “Steal Your Face” shades, which feature blue polarized lenses and a tie dye-inspired blue “splotch” frame. The red and white checkered pattern on the arms, meantime, is a callback to the back cover of the Dead’s “Europe ’72” live album. Knockaround calls these “a timeless pair of shades that will keep you feelin’ good from the lot, to the show (and the second show), to the road trip home.”
Both pairs of sunglasses are made with impact-resistant lenses with UV400 protection, making them as suitable for the beach and sports as they are for outdoor concerts and festivals. The two designs are available on other Knockaround silhouettes as well. Each pair of frames comes in commemorative Grateful Dead packaging, with matching lens pouch and box.
The Grateful Dead x Knockaround collection also includes a pair of “Slingshot” wraparound goggles, that are perfect for Deadheads to take on their next ski or snowboard run. The shades feature an adjustable strap that is compatible with all helmets, plus an anti-glare and anti-fog coating.
Knockaround’s Grateful Dead collection is a limited-edition release and won’t be restocked. As with all Grateful Dead merch, these sunglasses are expected to sell quickly so we recommend adding to cart while they’re still in stock. See the full collection at knockaround.com.