Siu-Yin Shing wearing her XP-Pro lenses

Two years after reviewing specialised gaming lenses for NZ Optics, UK-based writer Siu-Yin Shing has now co-founded her own gaming eyewear brand, XP-Pro Eyewear, with husband Ben Summers. “I loved the XP-Pro lens concept the day I first encountered it and knew it had real potential,” Shing said.

The XP-Pro lenses are produced in the UK in partnership with Polish company Jai Kudo, which manufactures the lenses to XP-Pro’s proprietary specifications. They incorporate three key elements combined specifically for gamers’ visual needs, she explained. “PrecisionPlus provides a gentle +0.50D boost in the periphery to help relax the eyes and ease strain, especially during extended sessions. NanoHex is the embedded hexagonal structure that helps control light scatter to reduce glare and fatigue. Finally, QuantumFlare enhances contrast and filters blue light in a way that helps textures and motion stand out, especially in darker environments,” explained Shing.

The duo collaborated closely with Jai Kudo to refine PrecisionPlus for optimal comfort and performance, with Summers contributing to the ergonomic elements of the new frame line. “A lot of thought went into how gamers actually use their eyewear,” he said. “Accommodating over-the-ear headphones was a key requirement, as most gamers don’t use ear buds.”

But Shing said there was more to the frame’s fit than either had anticipated: “The area that caused the most debate between us was the nose fit. I already work in the optical sector, but this gave me a whole new level of respect for frame designers, because getting a universally comfortable fit is far more challenging than it looks.” 

The XP-Pro Eyewear has already won approval from competitive players. “At the EPIC.LAN gaming event we met a professional Call of Duty player who tried a pair and bought them immediately. He now wears them consistently. We’re currently finalising a partnership to support him and his team,” said Shing.

The XP-Pro is currently only available in plano. “Rolling out prescriptions immediately is difficult, because additional measurements are needed to ensure the PrecisionPlus element works as intended,” said Shing. “But prescription options are something we absolutely plan to introduce in the near future.”

Although XP-Pro is available online worldwide, Shing and Summers are prioritising their UK launch for now. “We don’t want to do too much too soon; we’d rather build steadily and get it right. We need to walk before we run.”