Vuarnet

Vuarnet

The legend of VUARNET begins in 1933 with the birth of alpine skier Jean Vuarnet. Over the years he took part in many ski competitions, and later adopted his characteristic “egg position” which helped to improve the aerodynamics of his skiing shape. Using this position Jean Vuarnet became Olympic champion in the Men’s Downhill event. He was the first skier to win a medal on metal skis instead of traditional wooden ones, which made Vuarnet a legend in ski history.

Just before the Ski French Federation’s departure for the 1960 Olympics, genius optician Roger Pouilloux and lens designer Joseph Hatchiguian outfitted the team with optically advanced sunglasses. As such, Vuarnet sported the iconic 002 model sunglasses while winning the Men’s Olympic Downhill. Roger Pouilloux watched the champion skier on TV wearing his 002 sunglasses, and became determined to meet the legendary athlete. Pouilloux and Vuarnet both value technique, innovation, quality, and elegance. Upon those common principles, together they decided to launch an innovative brand of sunglasses, and the VUARNET brand was born.

The success of VUARNET grew tremendously over the years, and reached new heights when it was chosen as the official sponsor of the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 1984. The brand’s sales soared and VUARNET quickly gained international recognition. VUARNET has since become an iconic worldwide artisanal brand recognized for its French heritage and ability to provide uncompromised optical quality.