GUNNAR Optiks has dropped a new model to its Titanium Collection called the “Novato”. These bad boys take inspiration from classic aviator glasses. The focus is clearly comfort and durability for those long gaming sessions. Or even just long sessions on your screens.
Full disclosure, I am not a pilot or an aviation expert. While the lenses are advertised as FAA-approved lens tech meant for cockpit use, my use was much simpler. I spend a lot of time gaming, doomscrolling, and working at a laptop screen. Like other GUNNAR glasses I have used, these do the job they are meant to do and do not disappoint.
The design stands out right away. The frames are large and have a bold aviator look. They are not subtle, and I am not going to lie, it took me a little to warm up to them. Especially after my wife called me a 70s porn star. That said, they do not feel over-the-top when you wear them. The titanium frame is super light, and the flexible hinges with the adjustable nose pads help them sit comfortably. Even with the bigger size, they are easy to wear for long periods.
That is where these glasses are at their best. If you spend hours looking at a screen, the lenses help reduce some of the strain on your eyes. Granted, it is not a dramatic change by any stretch, but it is noticeable over time.
For me, that all matters a ton. I have had vision issues my whole life. I wore contact lenses and glasses for years, then had laser surgery, and now I use reading glasses. Eye strain is something I deal with regularly. These do not fix everything, but they take some of the pressure off during long sessions.
The Novato comes with GUNNAR’s blue light filtering lenses and coatings that help prevent smudges and scratches. In day-to-day use, that means less cleaning and fewer distractions.
The price ranges from $130 to $165, depending on the lens option. It is a reasonable price point, but more expensive than many other GUNNAR’s. That being said, the build quality and comfort match that price. You also get a slick case, pouch, cleaning cloth, and a two-year warranty.
There is no doubt that the look will not be for everyone. The frames are a little on the larger side. But if you are okay with that, the Novato is a rock-solid option. It is comfortable, well-built, and helps ease eye strain during long gaming or work sessions.
***Product provided by GUNNAR for the purpose of this article***