Cycling sunglasses

The lenses in cycling glasses are made from polycarbonates, which are lighter and sturdier than traditional lenses and, above all, don’t shatter when broken. Low-quality models may distort how you perceive some colors and the size and distance of objects. This is major difference between high- and low- quality cycling glasses lenses.

According to EU quality standards, sunglasses are divided into five categories rated on a scale from 0 to 4, according to how much light they filter out:

• Category 0. From completely transparent to very light lenses, designed for nighttime rides or very cloudy days

• Category 1. Designed for moderately cloudy days or shaded areas. Also appropriate por night rides.

• Category 2. Good for any type of riding during the winter and for mountain biking through forested areas all year long.

• Category 3. Recommended for situations of bright light. Necessary for cycling glasses for road cycling on sunny days and also for MTB or gravel during most of the year in sunny climates.

• Category 4. For extremely bright light. Not apt for driving and not recommended for cycling.

All cycling glasses, even the transparent ones, should offer protection against ultraviolet radiation (UV), to avoid irreparable damage to your eyes. Demand the CE quality marking and avoid unregulated points of sale.

In addition to filter level, there are different types of lenses:

• Monochromatic Cycling Glasses. These are the most common and the ones that start at the lowest prices. To vary their protection, they offer interchangeable lenses, among which colorless ones are usually included, which allow transparent cycling glasses.

• Polarized Cycling Glasses. Polarized glasses eliminate glare off bright surfaces, reducing fatigue. However, they are not recommended for cycling for two reasons:

  • They can hide the presence of dangerous elements such ice patches, water-filled potholes, oil stains or cracks in the road.

  • They can make reading electronic screens difficult.

• Adaptive Cycling Glasses. Adaptive (or photochromic) lenses become darker or lighter according to the amount of light coming through, making it possible to use the same glasses in different situations without changing the lenses. They do, however, come with a higher price tag than other glasses. The range of variation is usually two categories, except in the most advanced photochromic lenses with a range between categories 1-3that cover all the needs for most cyclists.

The frame is also important for safety and should not shatter on impact, preventing fragments from damaging your face or eyes. Grilamid is the most widely used material, which is both flexible and resistant.

They have to be comfortable and large and enveloping enough to protect your eyes both in the central area, as well as on the sides and the upper and lower areas. We will find women's cycling glasses and children's cycling glasses, with adapted designs, and men's cycling glasses with models suitable for larger faces.

If you need graduated lenses, there are three options:

• Prescription Sports Glasses, Offered by only a few brands and must be graduated by an eye-care professional. The most comfortable option, but with the highest price tag.

• Clip-on. The cheapest option, and consists of an anchor that allows us to mount a transparent prescription lens under the sports lens. There are numerous models with this option.

• Contact lenses. Compatible with any type of sports glasses, but take extra care to protect your eyes. Many people don’t tolerate prolonged use.