OUR STORY

From mountain summits to city streets, Julbo eyewear is crafted to go the distance. With over 135 years of experience and a commitment to quality, we make gear you can trust in every condition, for every adventure.

Handcrafted Since 1888

Founded in 1888 by Jules Beaud in the Jura Mountains of France. Julbo began by designing protective eyewear for crystal hunters—and quickly earned a reputation among the world's most demanding alpinists. Still family-owned and fueled by a relentless drive for performance, Julbo crafts high-tech sunglasses featuring REACTIV photochromic lenses and advanced anti-fog innovation. Our mission remains the same: create gear that thrives in the harshest environments, so you can stay focused on the adventure ahead.

Julbo Through The Years

For over 135 years Julbo has been pushing the limits of performance eyewear

The First Cristalliers

Founder Jules Beaud was born in Morez, France, in the Jura Mountains, the heart of the French eyewear industry. He began his business with a single focus: innovation in optical eyewear. In the early 20th century, responding to the needs of Chamonix crystal hunters seeking eye protection in the mountains, Beaud created the first "Cristalliers" sunglasses, launching Julbo's journey in optical sun protection.

The First Glacier Glasses

Julbo transformed the market with the launch of the Vermont glacier sunglasses, which marked the beginning of climbing's golden era. These sunglasses provided mountaineers with essential eye protection for conquering the world’s highest peaks. Later embraced by rock stars, the Vermont became an iconic collector’s item.

Real Mountains. Real Testing.

Julbo didn’t just name its eyewear after legendary peaks—it proved them there. With mountaineering icon and technical advisor Yannick Seigneur leading the charge, Julbo prototypes were developed and battle-tested on the world’s highest summits, including Everest, Makalu, K2, Gasherbrum II, Broad Peak, and Nanga Parbat.

Fluro Fun

As the fluorescent-fueled 1980s kicked off, mountaineers unleashed their energy, and Julbo was right there to support their quest for peak performance. Climbing sensation Éric Escoffier conquered three 8000-meter peaks in under three weeks in the Himalayas, while Patrick Gabarrou made his mark with feats like Le Voyage du Gab, scaling seven north faces in three days in the Mont Blanc Massif. Both athletes relied on Julbo for their eyewear.

For the Big and Small Alike

In the 90s, Julbo continued to prioritize performance, highlighted by the achievements of Jean-Christophe Lafaille. Already a leading brand for sun protection in extreme environments, Julbo broadened its expertise to new domains and markets. The company launched the Nautic line, welcoming yachtsman Franck Cammas to the team in 1998. This decade also saw the debut of the Baby range, providing exceptional protection for the delicate eyes of children.

A New World For Julbo

As outdoor sports evolved, so did Julbo. From partnering with legendary polar explorer Mike Horn on epic global expeditions to meeting the growing demands of trail runners and mountain bikers, Julbo pushed into every environment. With sport-specific designs and performance-driven innovation, the brand became a trusted companion for athletes across every element—land, snow, and beyond.

Rx Trem Program

Julbo enhanced its expertise with the launch of the RX sunglass program, revolutionizing the world of sunglasses and earning the prestigious Silmo Gold Award. Now, prescription eyewear users can fully enjoy their sport with Julbo's performance-driven prescription sunglasses.

Quality, Craftsmanship, Innovation

Julbo continues the tradition of creating premium eyewear with a dedication to quality, offering a lifetime warranty on all its products, while also pushing the boundaries of innovation with the development of REACTIV Photochromic lens technology, and SuperFlow Anti-Fog technology for goggles.

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Where Craftsmanship Meets Technology

Julbo blends over a century of craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovations—like REACTIV lenses, anti-fog coatings, and grip-enhancing frame materials—to deliver eyewear that adapts to any condition.

REACTIV Photochromic Technology

Julbo’s proprietary REACTIV photochromic lens technology is engineered for athletes who demand clarity, adaptability, and confidence in every condition. Unlike standard photochromic lenses, REACTIV adjusts quickly and seamlessly to changing light—bright sun, overcast skies, or deep forest shade—so you never miss a detail.

SuperFlow Pro Anti-Fog Technology

Julbo's award-winning SuperFlow Pro anti-fog technology provides crystal-clear vision in all conditions, thanks to its advanced ventilation system that prevents fogging. The ergonomic design allows for easy engagement, ensuring maximum airflow and comfort. We're so confident SuperFlow Goggles won't fog that we offer a money back guarantee.

Bio-Sourced Frame Materials

Rilsan® is a high-performance, bio-based polymer derived from sustainably farmed castor beans, used in over 75% of Julbo sunglasses. The result is a lightweight, flexible, and exceptionally durable material that delivers top performance while reducing environmental impact.

Handcrafted With Care Since 1888

Since 1888, Julbo sunglasses have been hand-crafted with the same spirit of innovation and adventure that began in the French Alps. Every pair reflects more than a century of expertise—combining meticulous craftsmanship, premium materials, and cutting-edge lens technology. Built by hand and tested in the mountains.