If you’ve ever felt queasy while using a mobile device or reading during a long-haul journey, the Citroën Seetroën glasses are for you. With a 95% effectiveness rating, these specs claim to cure motion sickness within 10-12 minutes of initial symptoms. Designed by 5.5, a collective design studio in Paris, the glasses’ quirky form balances the user’s optical senses.
Citroën innovation – powered by Boarding Ring
Although seemingly simple, the glasses incorporate groundbreaking technology. Developed by Boarding Ring, a start-up company based in the south of France, Seetroën frames are paramedical tested. The glasses contain coloured moving liquid which simulates the horizon and re-calibrates the eyes. Simplifying the experience, it’s not necessary to wear the frames for the entire journey. Once motion sickness feelings pass, the Citroën Seetroën glasses can be removed.
Available now for €99 (£88)
If you’re still looking for gift ideas, this is the perfect item for travel companions who suffer from motion sickness. It’s important to keep in mind that, if buying for children, they’re suitable for those aged 10 and up. You can order the Citroën Seetroën glasses online.
Motion sickness affects nearly 40% of road passengers
According to Boarding Ring, motion sickness impacts 39% of passengers on the road, and 66% at sea. The company claims the uncomfortable sensation is caused by both inner ear balance and visual perception. The delicate balance required to combat motion sickness is why Boarding Ring incorporates a four-ring design. If you’re not keen on the Citroën Seetroën design, additional models are available for pre-order (in January 2019) on the Boarding Ring website.
Developed for the French Navy
In an extensive article published by Smithsonian Magazine, the inspiration for Boarding Ring is revealed alongside the history of motion sickness.
“The glasses were invented by Jeannin’s father, Hubert, who spent a career working in optics before dedicating himself to the problem of motion sickness. Hubert Jeannin patented his innovation in 2004 and tested the Boarding Glasses prototypes with the French navy, and, although the exact results are confidential, his son says it was extremely successful—some 95 percent of users found the glasses helpful within 10 minutes.”
If anything, wearing the specs is easier than early Greek and Roman remedies. Such methods included sniffing fragrant herbs like thyme and mint, rubbing ground wormwood in the nostrils, eating rose petals boiled in wine, or fasting.