Spy Optic sunglasses

Spy Optic, commonly known as SPY+, is an eyewear brand deeply rooted in the action sports culture of Southern California. Founded in 1994 by a group of athletes and enthusiasts, the brand quickly became a staple in the surfing, snowboarding, and motocross communities. It is best known for its innovative "Happy Lens" technology, which is designed to enhance color and contrast while purportedly boosting mood and alertness by filtering light frequencies.

In 2019, Spy Optic was acquired by Bollé Brands, a major French eyewear group. This acquisition integrated SPY+ into a global portfolio alongside brands like Bollé, Serengeti, and Cébé. While the brand maintains a strong operational presence in Carlsbad, California—which now serves as the North American headquarters for the entire Bollé Brands group—its manufacturing is diversified. Production takes place in various locations including Italy, China, and Taiwan, depending on the specific product line and material requirements.

Today, the ultimate ownership of Spy Optic lies with Bollé Brands, which is itself owned by A&M Capital Europe, a private equity firm headquartered in London. This ownership structure has provided the brand with the global distribution network and investment capital needed to expand its footprint beyond its traditional North American market while maintaining its irreverent, athlete-driven brand identity.