The best sunglasses out there offer more than just shielding your eyes from the sun as you finally make it over the crest of the hill. Regardless of the season or the conditions that you ride in, cycling sunglasses are an invaluable asset. They keep your eyes protected from a plethora of threats and nuisances. Whether that's blinding midday suns, heavy rain, grit or a cloud of flies, these glasses can stand up to the challenge.
They might not be as glamorous or as exciting as a fancy new road bike, but your cycling glasses are worth not skimping out on. Before you choose your cycling specs, there are a few important things to consider.
Cycling Glasses Lenses -
The most important part to consider when buying cycling glasses is the lenses. The tint of the lenses has a big impact on the conditions they are best suited for.
Some cycling glasses such as the Cebe Cinetik 2.0 come with interchangeable lenses to give you options for multiple conditions. Tinted lenses that provide UV protection are the most important as they help to dim bright sunlight all year round. It is important to ensure that they aren't too dark so that they can still be sued later in the day or in an area lacking sunlight.
Lenses with a yellow tint are great for brightening up your surroundings whilst riding. This makes it easier to see road surfaces, signs and any obstacles that might stop you in your tracks. Clear lenses are also a great option for those that need prescription lenses and who love to ride later in the day or in the dark.
The other option for riding in the changing conditions is photochromic or photochromatic lenses which will change their lightness and darkness depending on the conditions. Back in the day, these might not have been great for cycling as they would not change fast enough if you were riding in and out of shade.
Photochromic lenses are a great choice for those that ride in a variety of conditions but don't want to deal with regularly changing their lenses. Photochromic lenses are clear lenses indoors but react to UV (Sunlight) and turn into sunglasses. The more UV they receive the darker they go offering you just the right amount of protection for various light conditions.
Cycling glasses frames
Cycling glasses do more than just help you see. They act as a shield for your eyes, protecting them from dust, debris and rain.
It is essential that your cycling glasses fit well. The end of the arms should fit snuggly around your eyes and feel secure and comfortable even when you're looking down. You also don't want them to be too tight so that they are uncomfortable. In addition to the arms fitting snuggly around your ears, it is also important for the nosepiece to fit securely and comfortably.
Cycling glasses can be purchased in either full-rimmed or semi-rimless frames. This is something worth testing to find which style suits you the best. Full-rimmed glasses may offer more protection from the elements and a more snug fit. Semi-rimless frames will off less in the way of distractions. removing the bottom part of the frame gives you a clearer view and a great field of vision.
Our Picks For Cycling Glasses
Peloton Cycling Glasses -
Peloton Sports Glasses come in an adult fit and feature wrap-around, 8-base styling with 6 base optics and over-moulded temples for added comfort of the wearer. The sports wrap styling provides superior peripheral protection from light, wind and debris. The perfect choice for any avid cyclists that wants a quality frame without breaking the bank,
Cebe Cinetik 2.0 Cycling Glasses -
Cebe Cinetik 2.0 Sports Glasses are available in various cool frame colours with different lenses for different conditions. All Cinetik models, except for colour CBS092, are also supplied as standard with an additional pair of interchangeable lenses for varying light conditions. The ultra-light frame has an emphasis on comfort and secure fitting with adjustable anti-slip nose pads, perfect for extended wear.
Fives Squared Oakley Sports Sunglasses OO9238 -
Oakley Fives Squared Prescription Sports Sunglasses OO9238. Stand out from the crowd and add some real attitude to your everyday look with these smooth, sleek and original Oakley sunglasses. With a tapered design, these sunglasses crush ordinary conventional designs and ooze sophistication. These Oakley frames are perfect for cycling and won't look out of place on the high street or at the beach.
At Spex4less we have a variety of cycling glasses and lenses, perfect for any rider and any conditions.