Proof

Last year a band of three brothers set out to make bamboo ski poles. They failed. But from the ashes of their failure rose a phoenix of awesomeness: bamboo eyewear called Proof.

The American range of eyewear has expanded from bamboo to include other species of wood and several types of lenses and tints, and is now available in South Africa.

Sustainability is a key component in Proof’s DNA. They only use wood species that are harvested in a sustainable manner and won’t adversely impact the environment.

They also offer a sunglass-recycling program and even their packaging is eco-friendly. Proof South Africa has also pledged to plant a tree for every pair sold in the country, to offset the carbon footpint caused by transporting the shades from Boise, Idaho, USA.

The man behind Proof SA, Alistair Barnes, says that Proof believes that good business and social endeavors aren’t mutually exclusive. “They should actually be equal partners,” he says. “To this end, Proof has made a commitment to support worthwhile causes. Proof has partnered with an eye clinic in India that performs sight-giving surgeries to those who can’t afford it. Proof will donate a large portion of each sale to this cause.”

Proof South Africa is giving one lucky reader a chance to win a pair of Proof glasses of their choice. All you have to do is mention @VISI_Mag and @ProofSA in a Tweet that begins with “I want Proof…”.

More information: www.iwantproof.co.za, info@iwantproof.co.za