Innovation in Sight: The Changing Face of Eyewear 

Trendy, cutting-edge, and aesthetically pleasing designs are driving the eyewear market forwards. Matched with technological advancements and the demand for smart eyewear, new models are entering the industry.

From sunglasses and optics to goggles, advanced materials, coatings, and lenses are propelling the eyewear innovation.

Here are some of the cutting-edge innovations that are bound to change the eyewear industry forever.

The new age of spectacle correction

Increasing screen time and other factors are heavily contributing to the rise of eye disorders amongst children and adults.

For a long time, we’ve known that glasses don’t control myopia, they only help us see better. Well, it’s time to rethink that.

Essilor has been working on its Stellest spectacle lens that can correct and slow the progression of myopia. At two years follow-up, data from a clinical trial showed that Essilor’s highly aspheric lenslet target (HALT) technology slowed myopia progression by 67% compared with single-vision lens wear, when worn at least 12 hours per day.

The company has also introduced MiyoSmart spectacle lenses with patented defocus incorporated multiple segments (DIMS) technology. Data by researchers at Hoya and the Centre for Myopia Research in Hong Kong demonstrated that wearing the lenses slowed the progression of myopia by 52% and axial length growth by 62% after two years.

The sunglasses improving cycling performance

Eyewear is key to athletic performance. The sustainable performance eyewear brand SunGod has taken this concept to the next level in their new model, innovative cycling sunglasses SunGod Vulcans.

Part of their cycling-specific Pace Series, the model incorporates high-quality, ultra-durable frames and a cylindrical lens. The result is increased spatial awareness due to the 180-degree field of vision. Harnessed by the brand’s 8KO lens technology, which is optically superior and lighter than industry standard polycarbonate, the SunGod Vulcans offer improved clarity, strength, and protection while venturing out on your mountain bike.

The cycling sunglasses’ innovative technology was recognised by the Sports Technology Awards Group and won the “Equipment or Wearable of the Year” in 2021.

Smart goggles bring AR to the slopes

The ski and snowboard industry has really taken a precedent in wearables innovation in recent years, and smart goggles are underway.

Heads-Up Display (HUD) has been around for some time now. Nestled in the corner of your goggles, these mini-computers integrated into your goggles show you real-time information about your speed, elevation, current time, altitude, and battery life. Such is the case with the REKKIE smart goggles. The display also shows you where your friends are on the mountain for the ultimate group experience. To top that, you can read incoming texts and notifications through integration with your smartphone. 

All these features are extremely beneficial for both advanced and novice skiers and snowboarders, and especially for those completing a ski instructor course, as they can help them better navigate and adapt their routes, speed, and techniques.

But that’s not all when it comes to smart ski goggles. RideOn Vision are the world’s first augmented reality ski goggles that provide an unforgettable experience on the snow. Similar to the REKKIE smart goggles, they feature a Heads-up Display that provides personalised stats about your performance. To enhance the experience, they also have integrated a virtual map and highlighted points of interest, which improves mountain navigation. 

The fully hands-free experience is boosted by the HD camera and video recording, meaning you don’t need a GoPro to take breathtaking snaps. And, of course, quality and durability are at the forefront manifested in a high-density face foam and Dual, anti-fog, anti-scratch, and UV400-protected lens.

From optic glasses that can boost our health to elevated athletic performance, we’re living in the heyday of eyewear innovation and can only look forward to what technological advancements the future holds.