Why cycling sunglasses?

Whether you are a casual rider or a competitive cyclist, cycling sunglasses provide you with the protection and performance you need. Cycling sunglasses protect your eyes from the dust and debris of the road while also shielding them from harmful UVA/UVB rays. Cycling glasses reduce the glare that can strain your eyes causing them to fatigue while also improving visual acuity and depth perception.

Guidelines for buying cycling sunglasses

The best cycling sunglasses frame …

Should be durable and lightweight. Heavy frames tend to constantly slip down and get very uncomfortable. You do want them to be durable enough to survive the demands of long distance and off road cycling as well as the occasional wipe out. You want frames that fit snug and stay secure so the dust or debris won’t get in your eyes. Look for frames that protect your peripheral vision but also allow air to flow to prevent fogging.

The best cycling sunglasses lenses …

Should be impact resistant polycarbonate for safety, glass lenses are not good for active sports. The additional cost for high quality polycarbonate will pay off in the long run with a life-time of distortion free vision and little to no eye fatigue. Interchangeable lenses are perfect for adapting to varying light conditions. The lenses should be easy to remove so that you can swap them out quickly on the fly. You also want lenses that offer protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Glare is brutal and very damaging to your eyes.

Unfortunately, not everyone is able to wear standard cycling sunglasses and this is where prescription cycling glasses come in. One of the most exciting new developments in recent years are prescription or rx adapters. Usually you’ll have a special adapter that frames a set of prescription lenses and then attaches to the inside of the frame or nosepiece and sit between your eyes and the cycling sunglasses lenses. The price is normally much less expensive than a pair of prescription sunglasses just for cycling and you can take advantage of the full compliment of lenses and frames made specifically for cycling sunglasses.

Here’s some of our favorites:

Oakley Radar Path Cycling Sunglasses

Smith Redline Max Cycling Sunglasses