Gunnar Optiks
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Eyewear |
| Founded | 2007 |
| Founder | Joe Croft, Jennifer Michelsen |
Area served | Individuals using digital devices |
| Products | Specially treated eyewear (computer vision syndrome glasses) |
GUNNAR Optiks, established in 2007 by Joe Croft and Jennifer Michelsen, focuses on specially treated eyewear marketed as safety glasses intended to guard against computer vision syndrome. The brand caters to individuals who spend long periods in front of digital devices, emphasizing enhancements in contrast, comfort, and the alleviation of eye strain.
The brand has garnered coverage from notable technology outlets including PCWorld, Lifehacker, Huffington Post, and Gizmodo. A 2007 study conducted by Pacific University with 36 subjects demonstrated notable reductions in symptoms such as eye irritation, tearing, dryness, and fatigue when using Gunnar lenses compared to a placebo. Nonetheless, a subsequent investigation in 2008 did not confirm these findings, reporting no meaningful differences in eye strain symptoms.
On February 11, 2018, Gunnar Optiks was featured on the ABC television series Shark Tank, where Lori Greiner extended an investment proposal of $750,000 to the company.
In March 2025, the firm collaborated with professional esports player Cody “Clix” Conrod to introduce “Goggles,” a line of gaming-specific eyewear designed to minimize eye strain during extended Fortnite gameplay sessions.