BZ Optics unique eyewear was developed by Scott Birdsall - an avid cyclist, canoeist, sailor and triathlete and Kevin Barr a surfer and sailor with 40 years’ experience in the action sport and sunglass business, in conjunction with one of the world’s most advanced sunglass design teams and manufacturers.

Scott needed a sunglass that he could train in at all hours of the day. A lens that would be clear before dawn or in very low light conditions but would darken as the day progressed and UV intensified. This sunglass should also enable Scott (who wears reading glasses) to read his digital computer on his handlebars and small print on his watch while running without the need to switch to reading glasses.

The idea came to Scott and Kevin after Kevin’s company Barz Optics enjoyed great success in the marine industry with their specialized polarised sunglasses with small bi focal readers in the base of the lens. But the early morning athlete required a more complex photochromic lens with more applications.

Sourcing a photochromic lens with optional bi focal inserts involved a 12 month, worldwide search. This world first lens was sent to Kevin’s frame manufacturer to develop a super lightweight cycling frame adaptable for all face shapes and sizes and for wearer comfort under even gruelling conditions.