Product Details
Color Details
Size DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
Are the Oakley Rhinochaser 3111 eyeglasses prescription-ready?
What is C-5 alloy and why does Oakley use it?
Do these frames fit larger head sizes?
What are the advantages of semi-rimless eyeglasses?
What is Unobtainium and how does it work?
What face shapes work best with the Rhinochaser's rectangle frame?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Oakley Rhinochaser 3111 Eyeglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Lower starting price ($113.50 vs $260)
- Similar semi-rimless construction and C-5 alloy material
- Available in multiple sizes (52mm and 54mm)
- Similar price range ($241-$255)
- Likely shares C-5 alloy construction and semi-rimless design philosophy
- Comparable sizing and fit for medium to large faces
- Similar price range ($143-$318) with comparable top-end pricing
- Premium metal construction with Oakley's advanced engineering
- Semi-rimless design for lightweight comfort
Read the full comparison
Oakley Rhinochaser 3111 vs. Socket 5.5 3218 vs. Gauge 3.1 5126
Choosing between Oakley's semi-rimless prescription frames? The Rhinochaser 3111, Socket 5.5 3218, and Gauge 3.1 5126 all deliver lightweight C-5 alloy construction and modern aesthetics, but each serves a different style preference and budget.
Rhinochaser 3111: Surf-Inspired Character
The Rhinochaser stands out with its distinctive surfboard-inspired design. The color stringer details running along each temple pay homage to classic longboard construction, giving these frames a lifestyle edge that the other models don't match. At $260-$276, you're paying for Monoshock titanium flex hinges that offer exceptional flexibility and durability, plus Unobtainium earsocks that grip better as you sweat. The 143mm temple length makes these particularly well-suited for larger head sizes, and customer reviews consistently praise the fit and comfort. If you want prescription eyewear with personality and a story behind the design, the Rhinochaser delivers.
Socket 5.5 3218: Budget-Friendly Alternative
The Socket 5.5 offers similar semi-rimless construction starting at just $113.50—less than half the Rhinochaser's base price. You still get C-5 alloy frames, spring hinges, and Unobtainium components, but the design takes a more industrial approach inspired by socket wrench angles. It's a solid choice if you want Oakley's engineering without the premium price tag, though you'll sacrifice the Rhinochaser's distinctive surf aesthetic and potentially some of the advanced hinge flexibility. Available in both 52mm and 54mm sizes.
Gauge 3.1 5126: Premium Minimalism
The Gauge 3.1 represents Oakley's high-end optical line with a sleek, contemporary look that's more technical than lifestyle-focused. Pricing ranges from $143 to $318 depending on configuration. The Gauge series emphasizes clean lines and minimalist design—perfect for professional environments where you want quality without visual noise. However, it lacks the Rhinochaser's character and may not accommodate larger faces as comfortably.
Our Recommendation
Choose the Rhinochaser 3111 if you want distinctive style, superior hinge technology, and a frame that fits larger heads comfortably. The surf-inspired details and Monoshock hinges justify the premium. Go with the Socket 5.5 if budget is your priority and you prefer an industrial aesthetic. Consider the Gauge 3.1 if you need a minimalist, professional look and don't require the extra temple length. All three are prescription-ready and built to Oakley's exacting standards—your choice comes down to style preference and fit requirements.
At a Glance
Oakley Socket 5.5 3218 Eyeglasses
Pros:
- Lower starting price ($113.50 vs $260)
- Similar semi-rimless construction and C-5 alloy material
- Available in multiple sizes (52mm and 54mm)
- Features spring hinges and Unobtainium components
Cons:
- Less distinctive design—lacks the surf-inspired stringer details
- Socket 5.5 has a more industrial, tool-inspired aesthetic vs. the Rhinochaser's lifestyle look
- May not have the same Monoshock hinge flexibility
Oakley Tumbleweed 3112 Eyeglasses
Pros:
- Similar price range ($241-$255)
- Likely shares C-5 alloy construction and semi-rimless design philosophy
- Comparable sizing and fit for medium to large faces
- Part of the same Oakley optical collection
Cons:
- Different aesthetic—Tumbleweed may have a different temple design without the surfboard stringer detail
- Slightly lower price may indicate fewer premium features
- Less customer review data available for comparison
Oakley Gauge 3.1 5126 Eyeglasses
Pros:
- Similar price range ($143-$318) with comparable top-end pricing
- Premium metal construction with Oakley's advanced engineering
- Semi-rimless design for lightweight comfort
- Modern, minimalist aesthetic
Cons:
- May lack the distinctive surf-inspired character of the Rhinochaser
- Different design language—Gauge series is more contemporary/technical vs. lifestyle
- Potentially different sizing—may not accommodate larger heads as well