Product Details
Color Details
Size DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
Are the Oakley HSTN Metal 9279 sunglasses prescription-ready?
What is the difference between Oakley HSTN Metal and the regular HSTN sunglasses?
What is Oakley Prizm lens technology and how does it work?
What does BiO-Matter mean on Oakley frames?
Do the HSTN Metal 9279 sunglasses provide UV protection?
What face shapes work best with round sunglasses like the HSTN Metal?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Oakley Hstn Metal 9279 Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Lower price point ($185–$270 vs. $233–$254)
- Full O-Matter construction may appeal to those who prefer a uniform material
- Slightly lighter weight without metal components
- Asian Fit design with higher nose bridge and adjusted curvature for better fit on certain face shapes
- Lower starting price ($138.07–$249)
- Same Prizm lens technology and BiO-Matter frame
Read the full comparison
Oakley HSTN Metal 9279 vs. HSTN 9242 vs. HSTN A 9242A
The HSTN family offers three distinct options, all sharing the same progressive round-lens design but differing in construction and fit. Here's how the HSTN Metal 9279 stacks up against its siblings.
HSTN Metal 9279: Heritage Meets Modern Design
The HSTN Metal 9279 is the premium variant in the lineup, distinguished by its modernized metal trigger stems—a design element inspired by Oakley's iconic 1980s Razor Blade sunglasses and the original Eyeshade prototype. It's the only HSTN model to feature Unobtainium nosepads, which increase grip when you sweat and keep the frame secure during activity. The BiO-Matter frame (56% bio-based content) balances sustainability with durability, and the metal accents add a heritage-driven aesthetic that sets it apart. If you want a frame that references Oakley's performance roots while staying current, the Metal is the choice.
HSTN 9242: The Original Round Lifestyle Frame
The standard HSTN 9242 is where the line began in 2021. It features the same striking circular lenses and modernized trigger stem, but the entire frame is O-Matter—no metal components. This makes it slightly lighter and often more affordable ($185–$270 vs. $233–$254 for the Metal). The 9242 is a solid pick if you prefer a uniform material throughout and don't need the heritage details or Unobtainium nosepads. It's the most versatile option in the family, with a wide range of colorways and Prizm lens options.
HSTN A 9242A: Optimized Fit for Different Face Shapes
The HSTN A 9242A is the Asian Fit version, engineered with a higher nose bridge, adjusted temple angles, and modified frame curvature to better suit certain facial structures. If standard frames tend to sit too close to your cheeks or slide down your nose, the A model may offer a more comfortable fit. It shares the same O-Matter construction as the standard 9242 (no metal trigger stems or Unobtainium pads) and comes in at a lower starting price ($138.07–$249). The trade-off is fit specificity—it's optimized for particular face shapes, so it may not work as universally as the Metal or standard models.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the HSTN Metal 9279 if you want the most distinctive design in the family, appreciate Oakley's heritage, and value the added grip of Unobtainium nosepads. It's the premium option with the most character. Go with the HSTN 9242 if you prefer a lighter, all-O-Matter frame at a lower price and don't need the metal accents. Pick the HSTN A 9242A if fit is your priority and you need the modified geometry of an Asian Fit frame. All three offer the same Prizm lens technology, 100% UV protection, and prescription-ready construction—the difference is in the details.
At a Glance
Oakley HSTN 9242 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Lower price point ($185–$270 vs. $233–$254)
- Full O-Matter construction may appeal to those who prefer a uniform material
- Slightly lighter weight without metal components
- More colorway options available
Cons:
- Lacks the heritage-inspired metal trigger stem design
- Does not include Unobtainium nosepads (a first for the Metal version)
- Less distinctive aesthetic—doesn't reference Oakley's Eyeshade/Razor Blade legacy
- May not offer the same premium feel as the Metal variant
Oakley HSTN A 9242A Sunglasses
Pros:
- Asian Fit design with higher nose bridge and adjusted curvature for better fit on certain face shapes
- Lower starting price ($138.07–$249)
- Same Prizm lens technology and BiO-Matter frame
- Good option if standard HSTN Metal sits too close to your face
Cons:
- Standard O-Matter frame without the Metal's distinctive trigger stems
- No Unobtainium nosepads
- Fit is optimized for specific facial structures—may not suit everyone
- Less heritage design appeal compared to the Metal variant