Essilor Launches Integrated AR Technology for Sun Lenses

BANFF, Canada--Essilor of America is launching an integrated anti-reflective (AR) technology specifically designed to complement sunwear. The technology, which Essilor unveiled last week at its national sales meeting here, will be introduced in a new product known Crizal Sun that will be part of Essilor's family of Crizal AR lenses.

According to Essilor, Crizal Sun lenses offer the same scratch protection and ease of cleaning on both sides of the lens as Crizal Alizé. Specialized integrated technology reduces backside glare without the common front side color changes, keeping the original color and look of the lens. Crizal Sun is also infused into the lens, so it will not wear or peel off over time.

Essilor will offer Crizal Sun lenses in both polycarbonate and high-index plastic. The lenses are comparable to lenses with Crizal Alizé in both performance and price and come with Essilor's proprietary Pad Control System.

"We saw a real need for this product in the market. Currently, there is no ideal coating for sunwear in the industry," said Carl Bracy, vice president of marketing for Essilor of America. "The goal with AR coatings is to let as much light in as possible. With polarized lenses you are aiming to keep the light out. Crizal Sun optimizes vision through any sun lens, making it the ideal AR choice for polarized or tinted lenses."