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                                                                  Exhibit (a)(5)



                                         FOR:    Bolle Inc.

                                 APPROVED BY:    Martin E. Franklin
                                                 Chairman of the Board
                                                 Ian Ashken
                                                 Vice Chairman
                                                 914-967-9400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                CONTACT:    Investor Relations:
                                                 Shannon Moody/Natasha Boyden
                                                 Press: David Nugent
                                                 Morgen-Walke Associates
                                                 212-850-5600


                     BOLLE INC. RETAINS FINANCIAL ADVISOR
       TO REVIEW STRATEGIC ALTERNATIVES AND ANNOUNCES MANAGEMENT CHANGES

        DENVER, Colorado - November 15, 1999 - Bolle Inc. (Amex: BLE), one of
the world's leading eyewear brands, today announced that is has engaged Banc of
America Securities to advise its Board of Directors on strategic alternatives.

        Martin E. Franklin, Chairman of Bolle Inc. commented, "While Bolle's
operating performance has improved significantly over the last several quarters,
our stock price has not reflected these accomplishments. Therefore, we felt it
necessary to retain Banc of America Securities to advise the Board on a number
of strategic alternatives. We have signed a non-binding letter of intent with a
private company who has offered $5.25 per share in cash to acquire Bolle Inc. We
anticipate that by the end of the month this will become a definitive agreement,
which would be subject to various conditions including financing, or that we
will be free to pursue other strategic alternatives at the time. Importantly,
management will continue to focus on operating the business and building the
Bolle brand worldwide, as we conclude our review of the various options."

        Additionally, the Company announced that Gary Kiedaisch has tendered his
resignation as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bolle Inc.,
effective November 30th, 1999, to become President and Chief Executive Officer
of Bauer Nike Hockey, Inc. Upon Mr. Kiedaisch's departure, the Office of the
Chairman will assume all CEO responsibilities on an interim basis, while current
senior management will continue to operate the business on a day-to-day basis.
Mr. Kiedaisch will continue to serve on Bolle Inc.'s Board of Directors.

        Mr. Franklin concluded, "During his tenure as Chief Executive Officer
and President, Gary has been instrumental in implementing a strategic growth
plan that has positioned the Bolle brand at the forefront of active lifestyle
eyewear. Equally important has been Gary's ability to select, develop and lead
an outstanding team of senior management. He leaves the Company in a very solid
position, both financially and managerially. We thank him for his dedication
over the years and wish him well in his new position."

        Bolle Inc. (Amex: BLE), is a vertically integrated designer,
manufacturer and marketer of Bolle/TM/ branded eyewear, including Bolle/TM/
premium sunglasses, goggles, and tactical and safety eyewear. Bolle is also the
exclusive North American distributor of the Reusch line of winter gloves for
sports.

Forward-looking statements (statements which are not historical facts) in this
release are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Bolle Inc.'s actual results could
differ materially from those expressed or indicated by forward-looking
statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include,
but are not limited to, changes in fashion trends, risks relating to the retail
industry, use of contract manufacturing and foreign sourcing, import
restrictions, competition, seasonality and other factors. Investors are
cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties,
including those risks and uncertainties detailed in the Company's filings with
the Securities and Exchange Commission.

