By Jillian UrcelayJU: How would you describe the ideal Rudy Project consumer that you design frames for?
DM: Rudy Project is about elevating performance. Our DNA and mission, forged more than 30 years ago by a visionary man in love with technical sport eyewear, have never been distorted. We are committed to improving performance and protecting lives at every level—from triathlon diehards who carefully select the best gear available on the market to sport enthusiasts looking for high-quality products ensuring long-lasting comfort, style and superior protection. Our ideal customer is someone who, like us, loves what they do.
Which types of athletes do you see buying the most sport eyewear pieces?
Thanks to our cutting-edge styling and careful attention to ergonomics, our products are available to everyone, from weekend warriors to the pros looking for lightweight reliable gear, extended Rx options and extraordinary comfort. A consistent portion of our budget goes into research and development with demanding professional athletes who compete in all kinds of sports around the globe. We work with them to ensure superior fit for a wide array of face shapes. We find that pro athletes are our loudest critics—they’re testing the gear and pushing it to the absolute limit. Once you satisfy the pros on a technical level, you succeed in making virtually everyone happy. That’s why they’re a part of the family.
What kind of sport technology has Rudy Project been focusing on lately?
While industry-leading ImpactX and ImpactRX optics keep us on the forefront of technology with our unbreakable material platform and some of the fastest acting photochromic lenses available, our major focus for 2018 is dedicated to our new proprietary Polar3FX HDR program. We have been working hard to develop lenses that combine cutting-edge polarized technology with fine-tuned high dynamic range filters to maximize color recognition, visual acuity and awareness while reducing eye fatigue. It’s a focus for us because we kept finding serious issues with most competitors’ color boosters. As a final touch, the vibrant MultiLaser color coatings bring attitude and positivity to the daily routine..
How has sport eyewear changed in recent years in terms of design and the attitude around it as a whole?
The good thing is that sport, fitness and health awareness are part of a global rising trend—people are more sensitive to increasing their life expectancy and protecting themselves while improving their quality of life. This has allowed the development of all kinds of activities and accessories, including sport eyewear. The market today is broad and crowded, but thanks to product features and material enhancements combined with good styling, consumers are embracing the opportunity to purchase good quality gear focused on functionality and targeted to athletes exclusively. ■
