In 1957, the Paris-based optician Roger Pouilloux launched the Skilynx lens. Being a winter sports enthusiast, he created a lens that allowed skiers to discern the variations on the ground perfectly in whiteout conditions, thanks to the incredible definition afforded by the lenses. Three years later, the Alpine skiing legend Jean Vuarnet won the gold medal at the Squaw Valley Winter Olympics wearing the soon-to-be iconic 002 Skilynx lenses. After the victory, both men decided to found an innovative sunglasses company, and Vuarnet was born.
For over 50 years, Vuarnet has been a leader in the innovation of mineral lenses, a type of lens used in NASA telescopes due to their outstanding optical performance and high level of protection. All Vuarnet mineral lenses are manufactured in their own factory near Paris, and offer high-resolution vision.
There are various tones of lenses, each one offering different advantages: grey tints render colors perfectly; grey-blue tints (a Vuarnet world exclusive) enhance luminosity while improving contrast and color definition; brown tints improve depth perception and contrast; and yellow-green tints (another Vuarnet exclusive) offer better perception of reliefs while enhancing luminosity and contrasts. All Vuarnet lenses have other exceptional characteristics: perfect vision without any deformation, high resistance to shock and scratches, 100% UV protection and an anti-reflection treatment.
Today, more than half century after the first Skilynx lens was produced, the Vuarnet 002 is more in demand than ever. After the incredible success these sunglasses enjoyed during the '80s and '90s, people around the globe are now longing to wear them again. Both the quality and the timeless design are responsible for making this model one of the most recognizable of all times. The shades that have marked the history of the brand have been reissued, featuring the same nylon, mark and lenses as the original. Equally suitable for men or women, this signature model is the sum of the Vuarnet DNA.
OCEAN & SAILINGVUARNET VL002 VINTAGE in DARK BLUE SX1000
This model combines three advanced technologies: the mineral lenses (blue Polarlynx), a silver bi-shaded mirror, and polarization. It’s ideal for water sports, sailing, boating, fishing, etc., since it has anti-glare, water-repellent and oil-repellent coatings.
Mineral lenses provides no distortion and a high level of transparency while the polarizing film eliminates light reflection to block out 99.9% of polarized glare. This is particularly useful when you’re out on the water where reflections can be particularly bothersome. The upper part of the lens filters light from the sun whereas the lower part filters reflected light from the ground without affecting the optical center of the lens.
MOUNTAIN & SKIVUARNET VL002 VINTAGE in GRADIENT BROWN SKILYNX
Also featuring the three combined technologies, this model includes the emblematic original Skilynx lenses. If you’re in the mountains, the yellow/green based lens guarantees the best sun protection. It accentuates contrasts, gives a better perception of objects in relief and enhances brightness. This pair of shades is perfect for skiing, hiking, snowboarding, hunting and sky diving!