For the first time in its 30-year year history, Maui Jim will launch a completely new frame technology that allows sunglass wearers to switch out their lenses for various light conditions during outdoor activities. Arriving in stores in July are the new Switchbacks (Style #523, $319 US MSRP) with a proprietary quick-release lens mechanism and five options for lens colors. By pressing a button at the top of the frame, the one-piece lens is released from its hold and can be easily swapped for a lens of a different color. The replacement lens then snaps into the frame with the push of a button that securely locks the lens into place.
“Itâs frustrating when youâre out for a cycle ride or on a long run and the light conditions change, making it too bright or too dark,” said Richard Walker, Maui Jimâs Director of Product Development. “Our new technology offers a real advantage over other switchable options in that we have a one-piece lens that eliminates fumbling with lenses for each eye. The distinct snap of our locking mechanisms lets you know that your lenses arenât going to pop out. And we offer five different lens options for varying light conditions.”
Switchbacksâ shield design screams to be used during the most active outdoor activities. This full-wrap frame has anti-corrosive pin hinges attached to wide temples with holes for straps. The oversized rubber temple grips offer the ultimate in hold and stability. A benefit of this frame is its adjustable Rabalon nose bridge for a custom-feel fit. These aggressively styled frames are available in Matte Black Rubber or Matte Rootbeer.
“Another first for Maui Jim is the fact that we are offering a clear lens with Switchbacks,” added Walker. “For some outdoor activities in the lowest of lights, itâs beneficial to have anti-reflective eye protection from wind, water and debris. So, each lens package comes with one clear lens.”
Each frame comes with two lightweight, flexible, scratch- and impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses. Matte Black Rubber comes with a PolarizedPlus2® Neutral Grey lens plus an anti-reflective clear lens. The Neutral Grey lens cuts 100 percent of UV rays and 99.9 percent of glare while enhancing color on bright sunny days. Matte Rootbeer comes with the clear lens plus an HCL® Bronze lens for variable light conditions thatâs packed with patented PolarizedPlus2 lens technology. Other available PolarizedPlus2 lenses can be purchased for $100 US MSRP and come in Maui Roseâ¢, a soft rosy tint that provides the highest contrast for fast-moving sports and in Maui HTâ¢, a palm green tint that balances contrast and depth of field for crisper details during varying light conditions. Additional clear lenses are available at $40 US MSRP. Extra lenses come with a dual pouch cleaning cloth.
Maui Jimâs PolarizedPlus2 lenses also have patented bi-gradient mirror technology adds protection from light through the top and bottom of each lens â basically, Maui Jim sunglasses squint for you to reduce eye fatigue.
All Switchbacks lenses have waterproof and oleophobic coatings to shed water and repel smudges, as well as proprietary CLEARSHELL® scratch-resistant coating to reduce scratches. Each lens has an 8 base curvature offering the ultimate in lightweight aerodynamic design for small to mid-size faces. Switchbacks has an eye size of 68 mm, bridge size of 16 mm, temple length of 115 mm. This style is not available in prescription.
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