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Posted on September 12, 2024
Meet The Designer:
Q&A with Gary Black
How did you get your start in the eyewear industry?
My journey into the eyewear industry began at 17 when I started working for a national sunglass retailer. That early experience didn’t just ignite my interestโit shaped my understanding of the intersection between style, functionality, and personal expression through eyewear. This foundation was instrumental in launching Black Optical 18 years ago, where I honed my craft. Now, with Kuro Athletics, Iโm excited to apply those years of experience to designing first of its kind performance eyewear that truly resonates with athletes and active individuals.
What inspired you to create a line of athletic eyewear specifically for cyclists?
As a multi-sport athlete, I often struggled to find eyewear that checked all the boxes: fully Rx-able, adjustable, with minimal logos and a clean, unfussy design. This personal frustration, combined with observing other athletes settling for eyewear that didnโt fully meet their needs, drove me to create a solution. I wanted to design eyewear that offers unparalleled clarity, protection, comfort, and durability, with a focus on being Rx-able. My goal is to ensure that cyclists and runners alike have the tools they need to perform at their best.
Describe the color story behind this collection.
The color palette for this collection draws direct inspiration from the race kits of fitness brands like Satisfy Running and MAAP Cycling. We aimed to capture the dynamic and bold aesthetics of these brands while integrating the sleek, monochrome color stories seen in designs from Apple and Bang & Olufsen. The result is a collection that balances vibrant athletic energy with a refined, modern edge.
How do you balance functionality and style in your eyewear designs?
We begin with a laser focus on performanceโensuring that lens clarity, fit, and protection meet the highest standards. Once the functional aspects are perfected, we thoughtfully incorporate design elements that elevate the aesthetic. This method ensures our eyewear not only excels in performance but also stands out in style, offering a seamless blend of form and function.
What are some unique features of your eyewear collection that set it apart from
others on the market?
Our collection stands out with cutting-edge innovations, including a first-of-its-kind Rx-able single-lens architecture and a fully adjustable nylon temple design. These features not only enhance comfort and fit but also push the boundaries of what’s possible in performance eyewear.
Why did you choose to produce your eyewear in Japan?
Japan is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. By producing our eyewear there, we benefit from advanced manufacturing techniques and premium materials, which guarantee the durability and precision of our products. Japan’s esteemed reputation in eyewear production aligns perfectly with our commitment to innovation and excellence, ensuring that every pair of Kuro Athletics eyewear meets the highest standards.
Can you walk us through the design process for this collection, from initial concept to final product?
The design process began with my personal experiences as a runner and cyclist, which shaped the initial concept. We then moved through a series of stages including sketching, prototyping, and testing various materials and designs. After multiple rounds of refinement and incorporating feedback, we finalized the designs. The manufacturing phase followed, featuring rigorous quality checks and extensive testing with endurance athletes and seasoned opticians. This meticulous process took approximately three years to ensure that every detail met our high standards of performance and quality.
How do you ensure the durability and performance of your eyewear under rigorous cycling conditions?
We ensure durability and performance by using high-quality, impact-resistant materials and advanced lens technologies. Our lenses are designed to withstand significant impacts, providing superior protection against debris and accidents. Additionally, each pair features anti-scratch coatings, robust frame construction, and secure fittings to handle the intense demands of cycling. Extensive real-world testing with cyclists further validates the eyewearโs performance and resilience, ensuring it meets the highest standards for durability and functionality.
How important is sustainability in your design and production process?
Sustainability is integral to our design and production process. We prioritize creating durable, high-quality eyewear that stands the test of time, which helps to minimize waste and reduce the need for frequent replacements. By focusing on longevity and responsible craftsmanship, we aim to offer products that not only perform exceptionally but also support environmental sustainability. This approach reflects our commitment to both enduring quality and eco-conscious practices.
What role does technology play in your design and production process?
Technology plays a pivotal role in our design and production process. We utilize digital freeform Rx lens technology to create a single-lens sunglass design that integrates dual eye Rx correction, pushing the boundaries of sport eyewear. This advanced technology allows us to enhance performance and precision, elevating both sport and optical technology to new heights. Weโre excited to be at the forefront of this innovation, shaping the future of sports eyewear and opticianry.
How do you envision your eyewear enhancing the experience of athletes?
Our eyewear is crafted to significantly enhance the athletic experience by delivering superior protection, comfort, and clarity. We aim to minimize distractions and optimize performance, allowing athletes to concentrate fully on their sport and reach their full potential. By combining high functionality with stylish design, we ensure that athletes not only look and feel great but also perform at their best. For those with visual correction needs, our eyewear provides the essential support to excel in their activities.
Are there any particular athletes who inspired you during the design process?
While no single athlete was the sole inspiration, the collective feedback from a diverse range of runners and cyclists greatly influenced our design approach. Their insights into the challenges and needs of their eyewear played a crucial role in shaping our design philosophy and product development. This collaborative input helped ensure that our eyewear truly meets the demands of athletes at all levels.
What materials did you select for your eyewear, and why?
Our eyewear features a combination of beta-titanium, injected nylon, and sustainable non-slip rubber. Beta-titanium is chosen for its exceptional strength and flexibility, allowing for a lightweight yet durable frame. Injected nylon provides a robust and resilient structure, ensuring the frames can withstand rigorous use. The sustainable non-slip rubber enhances comfort and ensures a secure fit, even during intense activity. Together, these materials deliver a perfect balance of durability, performance, and eco-conscious design.
What can we expect next from your brand after the launch of this collection?
After the launch of this collection, weโre energized to expand our range with new designs and advanced lens technologies tailored for other sports such as tennis, pickle ball, and skateboarding. Our commitment to continual innovation will drive us to enhance both performance and style for athletes across various disciplines. Stay tuned for more groundbreaking products that push the boundaries of sport eyewear.
Kuro Kestrel
The Kestrel is optimized for everyday sports.
RX ready integrated mono-lens shield. Made
and engineered in Japan featuring double
injected temples with metal core for
adjustability.
Kuro Saker
The Saker is optimized for cycling and
running. RX Ready integrated mono-lens
shield. Made and engineered in Japan
featuring double injected temples with metal
core for adjustability.
Kuro Peregrine
The Peregrine is optimized for running. RX
Ready integrated mono-lens shield. Made and
engineered in Japan featuring ouble injected
temples with metal core for adjustability.
