Wistman's Wood Staff Hike

March 11, 2025

Exploring the magical wood for inspiration

With the chills of Winter fading under the warm blanket of blue skies and sunshine, the Luma team grabbed the opportunity for a team hike to Wistman's wood.

Into the Wild: Designing the Wistman Range on a Hike to Wistman’s Wood

As the last days of winter faded into the crisp promise of spring, four of the Luma Eyewear team set out on a mission: to seek inspiration for our latest sustainable sunglasses, the Wistman Range. What better place to spark creativity than the ancient, moss-draped oaks of Wistman’s Wood?

Who did we take?

Jo - Creative Director - The top man for the job

Lucy - Marketing Manager - Always keen for a Dartmoor hike

Alex - Events Co-ordinator - A bucket-list tick off

Nathan - Customer Success Manager - Breaking in new hiking boots

The Journey to Wistman’s Wood

The trail leading to Wistman’s Wood is nothing short of magical. As we ascended the well-worn path from Two Bridges, the landscape opened up before us - rolling Dartmoor hills, rugged tors in the distance, and golden winter sun casting long shadows across the moorland. There are many little paths to take from the main carpark, but all eventually lead to the mystical woodland.

As we neared the woodland, the excitement began. The gnarled, ancient trees, and thick green moss created an eerie, yet enchanting scene. It felt like stepping into another world, one untouched by time.

A Moment of Reflection & Inspiration

We stopped for a break, near to the lichen-covered boulders that scatter the woodland floor. Around us, twisted oak branches reached in all directions, tangled like something from a forgotten fairytale. Sunlight filtered through in golden shafts, creating an interplay of light and shadow that instantly sparked ideas for our Wistman sunglasses.

Holding up a pair of prototype frames, we noticed how the natural arms mirrored the earthy tones of the trees, while the translucent frames reflected the light similar to dappled sunlight sparking through the trees. We discussed lens tints - perhaps a subtle amber or green gradient, inspired by the changing tones through the canopy. We wanted these sunglasses to embody both the mystery and the clarity of this landscape - a piece of Wistman’s Wood you could take with you anywhere.

Bringing Nature into Design

Hiking back, the conversation turned to sustainability. Standing in such an unspoiled place reinforced our mission: to create high-quality eyewear that respects and protects the planet. Just like the resilient, centuries-old trees of Wistman’s Wood, we believe in building things to last. Our use of ethically sourced wood and recycled sea plastic ensures that each pair of sunglasses is as sustainable as it is stylish.

By the time we reached the car park, boots a little muddier and lungs filled with fresh Dartmoor air, we knew we had something special. This wasn’t just another collection; it was a tribute to the wild, the untamed, and the beautifully rugged landscapes that inspire everything we do at Luma Eyewear.