GUNNAR Optiks

Overview

GUNNAR Optiks produces eyewear with patented lens technology designed to filter blue light, reduce glare, and alleviate digital eye strain for prolonged screen use.¹⁴ The company targets gamers, computer users, and professionals, offering styles for gaming, computer work, sun protection, sleep optimization, and reading, including custom prescription options manufactured in the USA.³⁴ It holds a pioneering position in computer and gaming eyewear, with partnerships including Disney, Activision, and Blizzard.⁴

History

GUNNAR Optiks was founded in 2006 by Matt and Jenny Michelson after three years of R&D, named after their son Gunnar, and launched from their garage.⁴⁶ The company secured its first patent (#9417460) for lenses reducing digital eye strain.⁴ It has grown into a global brand, featured on Shark Tank, backed by investors like 50 Cent and Lady Gaga, and expanded product lines beyond gaming to sleep and reading glasses.⁴

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Custom prescription lenses are manufactured in the USA.⁴ General production details are not specified, with indications of outsourced manufacturing typical for eyewear.¹³

Notable Products

• Call of Duty Series - Gaming glasses themed with Activision franchise.
• Overwatch Series - Blizzard-partnered eyewear for esports.
• Amber Lens Glasses - Standard blue light blocking for computers.
• Clear Pro Lenses - Minimal tint for everyday screen use.
• Sunrise Glasses - Sleep-optimizing low blue light filters.

Reputation

GUNNAR Optiks receives attention in technical media like PCWorld and Gizmodo for addressing computer vision syndrome.² Enthusiasts and gamers value its style collaborations and strain relief claims, though marketing assertions on contrast improvement lack independent clinical consensus beyond company studies.²⁴ It is offered by eye care professionals and eligible for HSA/FSA, but holds no BBB accreditation.⁴⁶