Best Road Cycling Sunglasses: Enhance Your Performance on the Road

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

Finding the best road cycling sunglasses is crucial for any serious cyclist. They aren’t just an expensive fashion accessory; they play a vital function in your cycling gear. High-quality sunglasses allow you to see the road ahead clearly, even at high speed, by protecting your eyes from insects, grit, and other debris. Moreover, they provide protection against harmful UV light, wind, and rain, ensuring that your vision remains unobstructed without fogging up. Much like the best road bike helmets, your sunglasses need to fit securely without slipping on rough surfaces, no matter how much you sweat. Comfort is key, as you’ll be wearing them for hours during long rides.

The best road cycling sunglasses not only serve a practical purpose but also add to your overall style. It’s a bonus if they look cool at the cafe during your breaks. After testing lots of sunglasses over many miles of riding, we’ve compiled a list of top picks from various brands, catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re navigating tough terrains or enjoying a leisurely ride, a good pair of sunglasses can make all the difference. They help you stay focused and safe, making your cycling experience more enjoyable and efficient.

1. OAKLEY ENCODER CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: high-quality Prizm lens for optimal vision.
  • RoadFrame type: a frameless design for a sleek look.
  • Modularity: replaceable nose pads to enhance comfort.
  • Weight: lightweight options, ideally around 31g.
  • Colors: Available in 9 different colors to match your style.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Stylish design that looks great both on and off the bike.
  • Comfortable fit that ensures you can wear them for long hours without discomfort.
  • Great quality lenses that provide clear vision and protect your eyes.

REASONS TO AVOID

Lenses aren’t interchangeable, which limits flexibility for different lighting conditions and personal preferences.

If you love a futuristic look, the Oakley Encoders are a perfect choice. These sunglasses have a high-quality feel and fit securely thanks to their frameless design and jaunty cut of the lens. This design works well with helmets and is especially suitable for those with high cheekbones. Although the Prizm lens cannot be changed on this model, the wraparound coverage offers incredible contrast and excellent clarity. This ensures improved vision to help you navigate road surface changes and avoid obstacles in the surrounding environment.

During our test, we also appreciated the protection provided by the large lens from various elements and airborne objects like insects and grit. The Oakley Encoders deliver a combination of style and functionality, making them a top choice for road cyclists looking for reliable and stylish eyewear.

2. POC PROPEL CYCLING SUNGLASSES

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SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Comes with ‘Clarity’ and clear lenses included.
  • Frame type: Half frame design.
  • Modularity: Adjustable side arms, three nose bridge sizes, clear lens included.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 33g.
  • Colors: Available in 6 different colors.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Massive field of vision that ensures you see everything clearly.
  • Excellent lens clarity for the best visual experience.
  • Size adjustable to fit comfortably on any face.
  • Modelled aerodynamic efficiency for improved performance while riding.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Cost may be higher than other alternatives.
  • Liable to steam up, which can be distracting while riding.
  • Improvement in aerodynamics is very modest, so don’t expect a significant boost in performance.

The POC Propel sunglasses were first seen on the faces of the EF team during the 2023 Tour Down Under. These sunglasses are not just about aesthetics; they are designed to look fast and improve aerodynamics around the sides of a rider’s face. While the actual gain in watts might be modest according to POC’s claims, every little bit helps.

Away from aerodynamics, the Propels provide an outstanding view of the road. The massive lens offers a huge, uninterrupted field of vision. The Clarity lens lives up to its name, ensuring that you have a clear view at all times. However, the close coverage of these glasses means they can fog up, making them less ideal for moist days or for sweaty riders.

The fit of the Propels is adjustable, with a choice of three nose bridges and sliding arms. This level of adjustability is not seen on many other cycling glasses, making them suitable for almost everyone. At $275 / £230, they might not be the best option if you’re considering the cost-per-watt ratio, but we were very impressed with their fit and performance.

3. TIFOSI RAIL CLARION FOTOTEC CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Clarion Fototec photochromatic for adaptive vision.
  • Frame type: Frameless design for a sleek look.
  • Modularity: Removable sidearms and nosepiece for customization.
  • Weight: 32g (claimed), ensuring lightweight comfort.
  • Colors: Available in 9 different colors.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Photochromatic lens offers great versatility at a lower price.
  • Good light transmission range ensures clear vision in various conditions.
  • Good fit that stays secure without slip and prevents fogging.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Not quite the transmission range of some options, which might affect performance in varied lighting conditions.

The Tifosi Rail offers a large lens with a rimless design, providing good wraparound protection. These sunglasses feature a Clarion Fototec light-sensitive lens with a light transmission range between 14% and 74%, making them suitable for a full range of daytime conditions. The fit is good with no tendency to slip while riding, and there’s little misting.

Reel offers a budget-friendly option compared to more expensive photochromic glasses from other brands. Although the response to changes in light conditions isn’t as fast and they don’t become as clear as some pricier alternatives, they still perform well for most cycling needs.

4. OAKLEY EV ZERO BLADES PHOTOCHROMIC SUNGLASSES

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SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Photocromatic for adaptable vision.
  • Frame type: Half frame design.
  • Modularity: Replacement nose pads for customization.
  • Weight: Only 29g, making them very lightweight.
  • Colors: Available in 6 different options.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Outstanding clarity for clear vision.
  • No fogging up, ensuring uninterrupted sight.
  • Very lightweight, reducing pressure on your face.
  • Secure and comfortable fit for long rides.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • No replacement lens available.
  • Higher price than other models with comparable specifications.

The Oakley EV Zero Blades have very little to be critical of. This photochromic version is available in six colorways in total and is an excellent choice for the shoulder season and winter. These sunglasses not only keep dust and grit out of your eyes, but also offer unobstructed viewing and clarity that is so good it’s hard to believe.

Whether you’re riding on a bumpy or smooth piece of road, these glasses stay in place without fogging up, ensuring perfect clarity and vision at all times. They’re not the cheapest on the market, but being Oakley, they guarantee an excellent fit and vision, with a big tick in the stylishness box.

Choosing the Oakley EV Zero Blades means you get top-notch performance and style, making them a solid investment for any cyclist looking for reliability and high quality.

5. SALICE 022 CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: RW lens with interchangeable options.
  • Frame type: Full frame design.
  • Modularity: Allows for interchangeable lens.
  • Weight: 34g, making them lightweight.
  • Colors: Available in 24 different colors.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Great fit for comfort.
  • Quality optics for clear vision.
  • Effective design for performance.
  • Lightweight option to reduce fatigue.
  • Bold looks for stylish appearance.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Lack of adjustability might not suit all users.

The Salice 022 sunglasses feature a large, retro visor look that can rival many highly desirable brands in terms of looks and performance. With their simple yet effective design, they stand out in the market. We liked the minimalist wraparound lens coverage, which keeps the weight low and, thanks to the forward-angled design, does a better job of keeping the lenses free of sweat streaks than glasses that sit closer to your face.

Made in Italy, the Salice 022 offers the bold looks of the Oakley Sutro at a lower cost, making them a great alternative to premium cycling sunglasses brands. These sunglasses combine style and functionality, providing excellent performance without the high price tag of other top brands.

6. RAPHA PRO TEAM FULL FRAME CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Rider Optimised Surface Enhancement lens (ROSE) for clear vision.
  • Frame type: Full frame design for durability.
  • Modularity: Interchangeable lens for flexibility.
  • Weight: Only 30g, making them lightweight.
  • Colors: Available in 6 different options.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Great coverage for maximum protection.
  • High performing lens ensures excellent clarity.
  • Secure fit for comfort during rides.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Slight intrusion on peripherals from the vents might be noticeable.

The Rapha Pro Team Full Frame glasses arrived with the aim of disrupting the likes of Oakley’s market share. They come with a surprisingly accessible price tag than expected, making them a great choice for many. These road-riding wrap-around sunglasses are packed with well-considered touches, such as light-reactive lenses, all wrapped in a stylish package. They are high performing, especially when riding in dappled or changing light conditions, and are on par with both Oakley’s Prism and 100%’s HiPER lens.

The overall fit of these sunglasses is snug and secure, though our tester did become aware of the side venting, which took a little getting used to. Despite this, they remained comfortable and provided great performance.

Cheaper than a lot of the staple cycling brands, these are great cycling sunglasses for anyone wanting labels for less without sacrificing performance.

7. KOO DEMOS CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Zeiss Polycarbonate for durability.
  • Frame type: 3/4 frame design.
  • Modularity: Interchangeable lens for versatility.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 35g.
  • Colors: Available in 9 different options.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Great lens clarity for clear vision.
  • Lens versatility to adapt to different conditions.
  • Stylish design for a sleek look.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • No spare clear lens included.
  • No hard case provided.

Designed with the Trek-Segafredo pro teams in mind, the Koo Demos hit the target for performance. Our small-faced rider found the one-sized (medium) glasses fit comfortably straight out of the bag. They come with an interchangeable nose piece to ensure a perfect fit for everyone.

The Zeiss polycarbonate lens provides excellent clarity, and the four effective ventilation ports prevent fogging, even during heavy-breathing rides on cold winter days. These features make them a reliable choice for all weather conditions.

Priced well against their peers, the Koo Demos are undercutting similar options on the market by a fair margin, making them a great pro-level option for many riders. You can read the full review of the Koo Demos glasses or check out reviews for the Koo Spectro and Koo Supernova if you fancy something Koo but don’t fancy the Demos.

8. OAKLEY JAWBREAKER CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Prizm for clear vision.
  • Frame type: Full frame design.
  • Modularity: Interchangeable lens for versatility.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 34g.
  • Colors: Available in 11 different options.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Multiple colors to match your style.
  • Different lens options for various conditions.
  • Easy swap lenses for convenience.
  • Great peripheral vision for safety.
  • Robust construction for durability.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Large fit might be too big for some users.

They may be classics, but they remain at the top, and no “best of” list would be complete without including them. The Oakley Jawbreakers remain a popular choice among cycling sunglasses for their great fit and enduring performance. We’ve found in many tests that they stand the test of time in terms of looks and functionality.

While the large frames might not be the best for those with small faces, there is an element of adjustability in the arms to help achieve a good fit. With a wide choice of frame and photochromatic HDO optic lens colors, these sunglasses cater to various preferences. Each pair comes with a protective lens cleaning bag and hard case for protection when not wearing.

9. SUNGOD VELANS FF CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: 8k Photochromic for adaptability in different light conditions.
  • Frame type: Full-Frame for durability.
  • Modularity: Comes with 4 replaceable nose pads and Interchangeable lenses.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 32g.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Amazingly secure fit, great for off-road use.
  • Photochromic 8k lenses are crystal clear in low-light and direct sun.
  • Good coverage with subtle styling.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • A tight fit can cause headaches during extended rides.
  • Lens change is slower than some models.
  • No hard case included.

The Velans are a great choice if you need one pair of sunglasses for all your cycling needs. This pair fits securely and is a great option for those who spend time on rougher terrain. They stay snug on your nose and don’t bounce around. The 8k lenses are sharp, and the photochromic feature works great, providing excellent viz in the dark forest and protection in direct sunlight.

In the PNW, we rarely have 100% sun during a ride, so these sunglasses work well on days when you don’t quite know what you’ll encounter. They even allow enough light to be useful for night rides. Whether it’s dark forests or bright sunlight, the Velans adapt to provide the best visibility for your ride.

10. POC AIM CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: POC Clarity for clear vision.
  • Frame type: Half-frame design.
  • Modularity: Interchangeable lenses for versatility.
  • Seamless fit with POC Helmets.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 38g.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Easy to change lenses (not included).
  • Great coverage for full protection.
  • Great styling for a sleek look.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Heavier feeling frames might not suit everyone.
  • Not as safe as others; There is a tendency to wander over uneven terrain.
  • Included hard case isn’t very useful.

POC AIM sunglasses for anyone with a POC helmet or those who prefer a sleek, large lens design. They provide ample coverage and have good ventilation, making them easy to wear. However, the frames don’t have as secure a fit as some other options, making them less ideal for really rough terrain. The lenses are easy to switch out and provide great clarity. Mirror options are perfect for direct sunlight.

11. OAKLEY KATO CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Prizm Technology for enhanced vision.
  • Frame type: Frameless design.
  • Modularity: Replaceable nose pads and Adjustable arms.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 34g.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Lightweight for comfort.
  • Impressive coverage for full protection.
  • Secure fit for stability.
  • Adjustable arms for a perfect fit.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Polarizing looks may not suit everyone.
  • Can’t swap lenses, limiting versatility.
  • Price might be high for some budgets.

At first, I rolled my eyes at the design of the KATO, but after a few hours of wearing them, I was convinced. The optics are incredible, and the fit is excellent. They feel like nothing is on your face and they stay in place even when things get bumpy. The lower height of the glasses means they won’t bang into your helmet. However, the price and the fact that you can’t change lenses prevent them from being a perfect 5/5.

12. SMITH RUCKUS CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Chromapop Photochromic for excellent clarity.
  • Frame type: Frameless for a sleek look.
  • Modularity: Interchangeable lenses for versatility.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 28g.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Timeless design that stays stylish.
  • Easy to change lenses for different conditions.
  • Secure fit for stability.
  • Best included case in the market.
  • A clear photochromic lens performs best in the PNW.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Expensive compared to other models.
  • It doesn’t offer as much coverage as some of their other models.

The Ruckus is my favorite pair of glasses from the testing period. They have a simple design with ample coverage and a great fit. These sunglasses feel light but are secure on the face, staying put even in rough terrain. The photochromic lens is the best of the bunch, with the clear option working fantastic in dark woods and the dark option being great in open sun.

Smith includes an amazing hard case with their glasses and offers a lifetime warranty. This ensures that your sunglasses are well-protected and gives you peace of mind knowing they are backed by a solid guarantee. The combination of excellent fit, secure hold, and versatile lenses makes these sunglasses a top choice for cyclists.

13. TIFOSI RAIL CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Polycarbonate for durability.
  • Frame type: Frameless design.
  • Modularity: Interchangeable lenses, Adjustable nose and arms.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 32g.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Lightweight feel for comfort.
  • Great coverage for full protection.
  • Simple design for ease of use.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Flimsier than some other options.
  • Doesn’t come with spare lenses.

The Tifosi Rail sunglasses come with adjustable arms and an adjustable nose pad, providing plenty of fit options. They are lightweight and provide a secure fit without exerting excessive pressure.
 The lenses are slightly less rigid than other options, which makes the whole unit feel a bit flimsier. If you handle your glasses carefully this shouldn’t be a big problem, but if you’re rough with your stuff, you’ll need to be extra careful when dealing with the rail.

This is a great option for folks who want a more subtle look but don’t want to sacrifice coverage. There are plenty of lens options available, making these sunglasses versatile for various conditions. Whether you’re looking for style or function, the Tifosi Rail offers both without compromising on

14. GOODR WRAP G

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Polarized Wrap-Around for clear vision.
  • Frame type: Full Frame design.
  • Modularity: Includes 2 pairs of nose pads.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 30g.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Secure fit for stability.
  • Great coverage for protection.
  • Loud design for a bold look.
  • Inexpensive option.
  • It’s time to party vibe.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • If you don’t party.
  • No interchangeable lenses.
  • Lens type doesn’t match your needs.

I love these glasses.They are affordable, fit great, and offer solid polarized lenses for the cost. The trouble is that the style has crossed into function here. In the PNW, we rarely see continuous bright sun. Most of the Goodr offerings are fully mirrored dark lenses. When you put them on, it gets dark, which becomes an issue here. We need a mid-light option, and they don’t have enough options for that.

I tested the Extreme Dumpster Diving model, which has a very pink lens. It performs well in low light conditions, but intense pink can be overwhelming.

15. SCICON AEROSCOPE XXL

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Interchangeable XXL mono lens for versatility.
  • Frame type: Full frame cylindrical mask design.
  • Modularity: Interchangeable lens and extendable arms.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 35g.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Excellent lens clarity for clear vision.
  • Tall design that effectively protects against the elements.
  • Oleophobic and Hydrophobic coating for durability.
  • Extendable arms for a custom fit.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Firm nosepad can be uncomfortable.

Scan is known for making high quality products. Known as an Italian brand, they’ve impressed us before with items like the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Road Bike Travel Bag, which scored highly in our reviews. Now, let’s see how their sunglasses perform in our test.

The frames are made from Grilamid TR9, a bio-based plastic polymer that is both durable and flexible, perfect for handling the rigors of cycling. These XXL sunglasses have a lens height of 67mm, significantly larger than the Oakley Sutro Lites, which are just 55mm. The Multimirror Bronze lens has a Visible Light Transmission (VLT) of 17%, making it ideal for bright sunny days, though not suitable for dusk or night rides.

One of the standout features is the customizability. You can adjust the nose piece by simply pushing it into the desired position. The arms can also be adjusted from 120mm to 130mm by sliding the end in or out, allowing for a smaller or larger gap between your face and ears. Although these sunglasses come with a hefty price tag, Scicon includes a multi-use soft bag, a clear spare lens, a recycled microfibre eyewear pouch, and a Lifetime Guarantee.

16. TIFOSI SLEDGE CYCLING SUNGLASSES

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Lens: Polycarbonate for durability.
  • Frame type: Full Frame for stability.
  • Modularity: Interchangeable lenses for versatility.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 37g.

REASONS TO BUY

  • Plenty of venting for comfort.
  • Great coverage for protection.
  • Comes with three lenses and a great case.

REASONS TO AVOID

  • Dated looks might not appeal to everyone.
  • Rigid frames can be less flexible.

Fit and form are very personal, and for me, these Tifosi Sledges don’t fit well, and I find their looks to be dated. They come with ample venting on the lenses, which is important as they sit closer to the face than most other offerings I tried. The frames are robust and should take a beating. The frames are strong and can withstand some rough handling. They are a great choice for those who are rough with their sunglasses!

MEET THE TESTERS

Anna has been hooked on bikes ever since her first lap at the Hillingdon Cycle Circuit at the age of 12. Her cycling life initially centred around racing road and track but has since broadened to include multi-day two-wheeled, one-sleeping-bag adventures over various terrain. She continues to enjoy racing and recently competed in the British Groove Championship and Greatfest 2022, where she reached the podium.
Anna Marie Abram
Fitness Features Editor
Chris started writing for Cycling Weekly in 2013 and has since become a household name in both the magazine and the website. Passionate about the mountains, he guided in the Canadian Rockies and now lives in Val d'Aran in the Spanish Pyrenees, working as a ski instructor in the winter and a cycling guide in the summer.
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Chris Marshall-Bell
Charlotte, a British cyclist, races for the AWOL O'Shea UCI women's team. As a prolific writer, she appears frequently in Cycling Weekly magazine and also contributes to the British Continental.
best road cycling sunglasses
Charlotte Broughton

WHAT ARE THE BEST LENS OPTIONS FOR CYCLING GLASSES?

Lenses are the most important feature of any high-quality cycling glasses. The tint of the lenses will dictate the conditions you can wear them in. Many expensive lenses are suited to a range of light conditions. For example, the Oakley Prizm lens excels across a range of weather conditions. However, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a pair of glasses with interchangeable lenses that can be swapped out according to the weather.

Most of the best cycling glasses that come with interchangeable lenses will offer three options. The first is a shaded lens that provides 100% UV protection and helps to dim bright sunshine when riding in the summer. They shouldn’t be so dark that you’re struggling to see the road surface if you’re descending a heavily wooded lane. The second lens typically has a yellow tinge which is great for brightening things up during overcast conditions, making it easier to spot rough road surfaces in flat light. Lastly, a clear lens is perfect for riding after dark.

Depending on the design, changing lenses can be fiddly, and unless you’re careful, it often results in thumbprints on the lenses that need to be cleaned off.

WHAT ARE PHOTOCHROMATIC LENSES?

Photochromic lenses are perfect for riding in changeable conditions. These lenses adjust their lightness and darkness depending on the conditions. In the past, they were not very effective for cycling because they didn’t change fast enough when moving in and out of shade. However, the latest and best cycling glasses now feature quick changes in tint, shifting from almost clear to dark enough for bright summer riding.

If you want to ride in different conditions without the hassle of swapping lenses, then photochromic lenses are ideal. They are especially helpful when your ride transitions from bright sunlight to deep shade. These lenses allow you to enjoy a seamless transition without needing to stop and change your glasses.

WHAT LENS SIZE AND SHAPE ARE BEST FOR CYCLING SUNGLASSES?

When choosing the best cycling glasses, the size and shape of the lens are crucial. Aside from the color of the lens, there are several other things to consider. First, you want coverage to protect your eyes from sunshine, bugs, water, and wind. This is especially important for people who wear contact lenses. One-piece lenses are usually the best for this.

Peripheral coverage on the sides and bottom of the lenses helps reduce glare and distractions. Frameless designs are great for keeping the frames out of your field of vision, which can otherwise obscure obstacles on the road. The trend toward larger lenses helps ensure maximum coverage and protection.

WHAT ARE THE BEST CYCLING GLASSES FOR RIDING IN THE RAIN?

Best Road Cycling Sunglasses

When riding in the rain, having the best cycling glasses is crucial. Look for glasses with a hydrophobic coating on the lenses to ensure water doesn’t stay on the lenses, impeding your vision. Combining these with a cycling cap can provide extra protection. Misting is a common problem in damp conditions or when it’s cold and you start to sweat.

Some of the best cycling glasses have venting slots or other features to help guard against this issue. For example, the Oakley Flight Jacket glasses come with an adjustable nose piece to improve airflow and aid in moisture dissipation. However, be cautious as some designs might create a bottom-heavy feel, causing them to slip down your face. Finally, an anti-scratch coating is an important consideration, especially if you’ve invested heavily in a quality pair of sunglasses.

HOW DO I CHOOSE THE BEST FRAMES FOR MY CYCLING SUNGLASSES?

When selecting the best frames for your cycling glasses, it’s important to consider both money and value. Most of your investment will go towards the frame rather than the lenses, so make sure you’re getting good value. The frame should fit well, with the tips of the arms fitting snugly around your temple just above your ears. This ensures they stay securely in place even when you’re looking down or swinging your head from side to side during a sprint.

You don’t want the frame to be too tight as it can quickly become uncomfortable. Top cycling glasses have rubber pads that grip the sides of your head, keeping them secure without the need for tight arms. This design prevents them from relying on hooking over your ears. Some models come with adjustable or bendable arms to ensure a good fit.

The nosepiece is another crucial aspect to check. Cycling glasses often feature adjustable or swappable rubber nosepieces that can be shaped to fit the dimensions of your nose. This prevents the glasses from slipping down your face if the nosepiece is too wide or from sitting too high and falling off if it’s too narrow. Ensuring a proper frame fit with your helmet is also essential. Brands like Oakley, Kask/Koo, and Rudy Project often design their glasses and helmets to work together harmoniously.

There are three main styles of frames to choose from: full frame, half frame, and frameless. Each offers similar functionality, but some full-frame cycling glasses might obstruct your vision if the upper or lower part of the frame is in your eye line. Your choice will depend on the look you prefer, the priority you place on weight, and what fits best.

Road riders often prefer frameless or half-frame glasses due to their lightweight design. However, keep in mind that in a crash, these styles provide less protection for your face from the sharp edges of the lens. For added protection, full-frame glasses might be a better option.

In conclusion, choosing the best frames for your cycling sunglasses involves balancing comfort, fit, and protection. Consider the design, material, and how well they work with your helmet. With the right frames, your cycling experience will be safer and more enjoyable.

CAN I BUY PRESCRIPTION CYCLING GLASSES?

If you wear prescription glasses, you might want to get prescription lenses for your cycling glasses too. Some of the best cycling glasses brands, like Oakley and Bollé, offer prescription versions of their lens styles. Other brands provide clip-in inserts that fit behind your sunglass lenses, though this can reduce your in-focus field of vision. Both options can be ordered through opticians but come with an extra cost. Another option is to wear contact lenses underneath your regular cycling glasses.

ARE THERE ANY OTHER FEATURES TO LOOK FOR IN THE BEST CYCLING GLASSES?

When looking for the best cycling glasses, there are several other features to consider aside from the glasses themselves. First, it’s useful to have a hardshell case for protection if you’re throwing the sunglasses in a bag while traveling. You should also look for a soft microfibre cloth to help keep the lenses clean. Some brands offer a lens cleaning cloth or even a kit with a spray. A soft case that can double as a lens cloth is also a handy addition.

Another important aspect is the color options offered by various brands. Having a wide choice in frames, arms, and lenses allows you to ensure your glasses match your kit when planning your outfit. A recent trend is complete frame customisation, which is an option offered by brands like Ekoi and Oakley. This customisation allows for a more personalized and stylish look while ensuring the glasses meet your specific needs.

HOW WE TEST

At Chice Bike Tech Team, we have a thorough method for testing the best road cycling sunglasses. Our team, with years of experience across different disciplines, brings a wealth of knowledge to every review. We ensure each pair of eyewear is put through its paces.

We test the glasses in a range of conditions and on rides of various lengths to assess their performance and protection. We look at the lens, its field of vision, and other factors like comfort, adjustability, and overall value for money. Our reviews provide a comprehensive look at how each product performs in real-world scenarios.

Even if we haven’t had the chance to review a specific item, we remain confident in recommending it. We trust the brand and may have tested another product or a previous version. This familiarity allows us to happily recommend it as one of the best options available.

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Best Road Cycling Sunglasses: Enhance Your Performance on the Road

About Us

I absolutely love motorcycles, bikes, and dirt bikes. There’s something exhilarating about the roar of the engine and the sense of freedom that comes with cruising the open road. Whether it’s the sleek design of a sport bike, the ruggedness of a dirt bike tearing through the trails, or the classic allure of a vintage motorcycle, every ride offers a unique experience. The adrenaline rush I get from leaning into curves or tackling off-road terrain is unparalleled. Riding is not just a hobby for me. It is a passion that strengthens my soul and brings me immense joy