Alba Optics: Italian Sport Eyewear for Those Who Won't Settle
For those who experience sport as a form of self-expression and are looking for eyewear that tells a different story from the usual mainstream icons, Alba Optics is one of the most exciting discoveries of recent years in the sport eyewear landscape. A brand that is young in spirit yet deeply rooted in the Italian manufacturing tradition, it has won over cyclists, runners and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide thanks to an unmistakable visual identity and a technical level at the very top of its category.
Mondello1962 has selected Alba Optics for those who want a piece of sport eyewear that is also a genuine design object — an accessory that moves effortlessly between high performance and everyday style.
The Alba Optics Story: 1980s Design Meets Today's Technology
Founded in 2017 in Milan by Piergiorgio Saletti and Luca Pierpaoli, Alba Optics was born from the idea of recovering an original 1980s mould and bringing the iconic shapes of that era back to life using contemporary materials and technologies. Its first model, the legendary Delta, has become an absolute cult favourite among the most demanding cyclists.
The entire production — frames, lenses and packaging — is 100% handmade in Italy, in continuity with the manufacturing heritage of the Italian optical district. An ethical and qualitative choice that translates into full control of every production stage and a product that embodies the authentic craftsmanship of true Made in Italy.
VZUM™ Technology: The Lenses That Make the Difference
The true technological heart of every pair of Alba Optics is its VZUM™ lenses, developed in-house by the brand. Made from ultra-light polycarbonate that is scratch- and impact-resistant, VZUM™ lenses are designed to deliver maximum visual clarity in any light condition.
The range includes solid-tint lenses, mirror finishes and the exclusive VZUM™ F-LENS photochromic technology, which automatically adjusts its tint to the ambient light intensity — the perfect solution for long rides or for those who train in changing light conditions.
All lenses are interchangeable, allowing you to customise your eyewear according to your sport, the weather and your personal taste.
The Alba Optics Models: From Delta to Mantra, Every Frame Has Its Own Personality
The Alba Optics collection revolves around a handful of iconic models, each designed for a different type of athlete and aesthetic sensibility:
- Delta: The brand's signature model. A wraparound lens inspired by the '80s and '90s, exceptional comfort and optimal ventilation. Also available in the Delta Original, Delta Lei and Delta Ultra versions.
- Anvma and Anvma '99: Just 19 grams. A sport-specific frame with a bold design, inspired by the urban and hip-hop culture of the Nineties.
- Stratos: A single frameless lens for completely unobstructed vision, dedicated to pure performance.
- Mantra: An elegant and versatile line, perfect for those who want eyewear that works just as well in the saddle as it does off the bike.
- Solo II: Designed for alpinists and extreme adventurers, with removable side shields.
- Jumbo: The newest frontier of the collection, with an even more contemporary aesthetic.
Frames are crafted in TR90, a technopolymer made of nylon and carbon fibre: 20% lighter than conventional materials, skin-friendly, flexible and resistant to high temperatures. For those who need prescription lenses, Alba Optics offers the OTG Optical Clip, compatible with all the main models and fully customisable in our in-house laboratory.
Why Buy Alba Optics at Mondello1962
Buying Alba Optics from our boutique means combining the technical excellence of the brand with the tailored experience that has defined Mondello1962 for over sixty years. Our team — present at the most important industry trade shows in Milan, Paris and New York — personally selects every model in the collection, guaranteeing authenticity, official warranty and immediate availability.
Thanks to our complete professional optical services, including eye examinations and an in-house laboratory, we can turn every pair of Alba Optics into custom prescription eyewear while preserving the optical performance of the VZUM™ lenses. Expert consultation guides you through choosing the frame-and-lens combination that best suits your sport, your face and your style.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Where are Alba Optics sunglasses made? All Alba Optics sunglasses are designed and entirely handcrafted in Italy, with headquarters in Milan. The VZUM™ lenses and the packaging are also produced in Italy, guaranteeing an authentic Made in Italy product.
What are VZUM™ lenses? VZUM™ is Alba Optics' proprietary lens technology. The lenses are made from ultra-light, scratch-resistant polycarbonate and are engineered to optimise vision in any light condition. The F-LENS version is photochromic and automatically adapts to the surrounding light.
Are Alba Optics lenses interchangeable? Yes, all the main Alba Optics models feature interchangeable lenses. You can purchase additional lenses to customise your eyewear depending on the sport you practise or the weather conditions.
Can I fit prescription lenses on Alba Optics? Absolutely. Alba Optics produces an OTG Optical Clip compatible with the Delta, Stratos, Solo and Mantra models. At the in-house laboratory of Mondello1962 we mount custom prescription lenses according to your individual prescription.
Which Alba Optics model is best suited to road cycling? The models most commonly chosen by road cyclists are the Delta and the Stratos, thanks to their wraparound lens, which provides a wide field of vision and excellent lateral protection. For mountain biking and gravel, the Anvma and Mantra are also highly appreciated.
How much do Alba Optics sunglasses weigh? Weight varies by model: the Anvma is one of the lightest on the market at just 19 grams, while the Delta is around 26 grams. All frames are made of TR90, an ultra-light and flexible material.
Is Alba Optics a valid alternative to Oakley or Ray-Ban? Yes. Alba Optics is one of the most compelling alternatives for anyone looking for premium sport eyewear with a more distinctive identity and a unique design. Italian craftsmanship, VZUM™ lenses and a retro-contemporary aesthetic make these sunglasses something quite different from mainstream commercial brands.
Are Alba Optics sunglasses covered by warranty? Yes. All Alba Optics sunglasses purchased on Mondello1962 are 100% authentic and come with the certificate of authenticity and the official manufacturer's warranty (CE / CCUK).
How do I choose the right VZUM™ lens for my needs? Each VZUM™ lens has a specific filter category (CAT) and a colour designed for different light conditions. Our team of opticians is at your disposal for a personalised consultation, also via live chat or phone.
