Smith Optics has announced ChromaPop, a new polarized lens technology that it promises will revolutionize the optics industry with groundbreaking "film-free" technology. According to Smith, ChromaPop utilizes a new process that allows for polarization without the need for film and lamination. This new technology allows ChromaPop lenses to deliver "exceptional optical clarity" without the worry of delamination, according to Peter Crow of Smith Optics.

"ChromaPop lenses selectively filter light out in the optically confusing transmission areas of 480nm and 580nm, with the result of brighter more vibrant and popping colors," explains Crow. "The lenses are lighter in weight than any other lens material, 4 to 5 times more scratch resistant than Polycarbonate, have the impact resistance of Polycarbonate and the clarity of glass."

Calling ChromaPop "the world's most scientifically advanced polarized lens", Smith Optic's press release on the new technology explains that "ChromaPop eliminates color confusion for the brain, ultimately recognizing true color, faster, regardless of lens tint. When light passes through a traditional lens, there are two points where light waves intersect and the brain has to work to decipher whether its seeing red, green or blue. With Chro- maPop lens technology, the color intersections are blocked so the brain immediately recognizes true vibrant color as it should be seen with increased depth and detail of objects, while reducing eye fatigue."

Smith Optics also notes that ChromaPop lenses eliminate haze to create an "unmatched visual clarity." ChromaPop lenses are also moisture, grease, and grime resistant, and reportedly eliminate annoying sidelight reflections.

ChromaPop will be available in six new styles, for a SRP of $209-269.