When it comes to mountain biking, a good pair of sunglasses is not just a stylish accessory but an essential part of a biker’s wardrobe. These glasses serve several reasons beyond just completing your look—they protect your eyes from bright sunlight and harmful UV rays.
On the trail, they help improve your view by reducing glare and preventing squinting, which can cause fatigue over time. A reliable pair also shields your eyes from flying debris, whether it’s dirt kicked up by a rider’s back wheel, muddy spray from puddles, or even unexpected encounters with bugs or errant tree branches. For serious mountain bikers, this kind of protection is non-negotiable.
The best mountain biking glasses balance larger coverage with a snug fit that feels natural on your face. A good wrap-around design keeps your eyes safe not only from direct sunlight but also from light entering from the side or the chilly wind that can cause tearing.
The frames play a significant role too; they should rest comfortably without pressing into your facial features, which could lead to discomfort or even fogging. Many glasses feature a half-frame design, which improves the field of vision by removing obstructions, though the lens may be more exposed to damage when not being worn.
Finding the right pair of best mountain biking glasses often comes down to your head size, personal preferences, and how well the frames suit your features. Consider options that feel stable and don’t easily move during rides, as ill-fitting contacts between the frame and your face can be both uncomfortable and impractical.
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When choosing the best mountain biking glasses, it’s essential to ensure they integrate well with your helmet. A pair that doesn’t dig into your head or create pressure points can make a big difference on long rides. Beyond practicality, looks matter too. The frame design and colors should align with your personal choice, as many models offer a variety of selections to suit different styles.
However, more expensive MTB glasses often include additional features like interchangeable lenses and adjustable fits for the nose piece and arms, making them worth considering for both performance and comfort.
Higher-end options often come with photochromic lenses, which are light-sensitive and adapt to bright or overcast conditions, thanks to their special coating that reacts to changes in light. While these lenses might take some time to adjust, especially in cheaper models, the improved clarity and minimal distortion in your vision make them a great choice for avid riders. The quality of the lens often correlates with the price, so investing in a durable and well-tested pair ensures better performance during your rides. Whether tackling tough trails or enjoying scenic routes, the basics of high-performance sunglasses make all the difference in enhancing your mountain bike experience.
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Top Best Mountain Biking Glasses
100% S3
If you’re looking for a high-performance option, the 100% S3 is a standout choice for serious riders. With a price tag of:
- £170/$185
These glasses come with a wide choice of lens tints, and the HiPER red mirror lens is particularly versatile, adapting to a range of light conditions. During our tests, the clarity and vibrant pop of the lens stood out, making it hard to doubt their place among the best mountain biking glasses. The coverage is excellent, and the frame stays completely outside your peripheral vision, ensuring a clear view of the trail.
Comfort is another strong suit for the 100% S3 glasses. They stay securely in place no matter the terrain you’re riding, and they are compatible with helmets, avoiding any pressure points. A clear lens is also included for added versatility. However, the nosepiece, while functional, feels a bit flimsily attached, and the lens ventilation could be better—though steaming wasn’t an issue during our tests. You might feel like you pay a premium, but the performance justifies the investment for riders seeking top-tier gear.
Madison Crypto
If you’re looking for affordable yet functional best mountain biking glasses, the Madison Crypto offers incredible value at:
- £60
These glasses provide excellent optical clarity with a large lens that ensures optimum eye coverage in various conditions. The three lenses included are highly effective, with the amber lens standing out as the most versatile, making it usable across a wide range of light settings. Swapping lenses is straightforward due to the flexible frame, which is easy to manipulate for quick adjustments.
Comfort is another strong point of the Madison Crypto. The nosepiece is highly adjustable, and the curved arms are both secure and comfortable, staying firmly in place during rides. These glasses don’t interfere with most helmets and remain fog-free, even without obvious ventilation. The bronze mirror lens is prone to showing fingerprints, and the curved arms can be somewhat difficult to adjust comfortably over your ears while wearing a helmet. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall performance is impressive for the price.
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Koo Demos
If you’re searching for a blend of style and functionality, the Koo Demos MTB glasses are an excellent choice at:
- £140
These lightweight glasses, weighing only 31g, boast a chunky angular frame with thick curved arms that comfortably contour the head, providing a secure wrap-around feel. For added grip, the anti-slip rubber inserts extend down the arms, keeping the glasses steady on uneven terrain. The adjustable nose pads allow for a tailored fit, ensuring comfort during long rides.
The standout feature is the Zeiss lens, which offers impressive clarity. However, the type of lens available is fixed to certain frame colors, with the photochromic lens limited to the white frame. Some riders might feel disappointed by the lack of a clear lens option or a soft case, both of which are often included as standard in this price range. Despite this letdown, the wide field of view and premium build make the Koo Demos a solid choice for any rider.
Oakley Sutro Lite Photochromic
The Oakley Sutro Lite Photochromic is a sleek and adaptable choice for mountain bikers, available at:
- £173/$214/€200/AU$279
With their half-frame design, these glasses offer a wider field of view and are more compact than the original Oakley Sutro. The photochromic lens is a highlight, as it adjusts well to light conditions, making it equally usable in the brightest sunlight and during dusk hours. The adjustable lens provides smooth performance in changing conditions, combining practicality with beauty.
However, the fixed nose piece position makes it challenging to adjust the fit for different facial profiles, which might not suit everyone. Despite this, the Oakley Sutro Lite remains a strong contender for riders seeking a premium experience with dependable lenses and wide visibility. The balance between its design and performance justifies its price for dedicated enthusiasts.
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Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep (Vented)
The Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep (Vented) stands out with its contrast-enhancing Prizm Trail Torch lens, designed to make features on the trail pop. This impressive lens effectively reduces glare, offers a balanced tint for bright light, and enhances visibility for an enjoyable ride. The nose piece is exceptionally soft and comfortable, ensuring a snug fit without causing discomfort, while the glasses remain stable with no rattling or movement during riding.
At a price of:
- £149/$189/€170/AU$230
These glasses excel in ventilation, thanks to their drilled lens, which provides airflow without making the ride feel overly breezy. The arms are well-positioned and don’t interfere with helmets, making them a solid choice for various trail conditions. However, the downside lies in the coverage, which isn’t the best, and the colorful frame can be visible but not obtrusive while riding. The distinctive styling received mixed reviews, as it divided opinions among our testers, but overall, the performance makes it a worthwhile investment for serious bikers.
Rapha Pro Team Full Frame Trail
The Rapha Pro Team Full Frame Trail offers a combination of comfort and practicality, available at:
- £120/$165/€145/AU$210
These wraparound shades are incredibly comfortable, thanks to the silicone gripper and flexible tip on the shortish arms, which help them stay in place even over bumpy sections. The glasses sit snugly against the tester’s face, providing stability and ensuring a secure fit. With five frame and lens options available, the rose-tint lens proves highly versatile in various conditions, while effectively reducing glare.
The lens offers excellent ventilation, and the box includes an additional clear lens and interchangeable nose pieces for added convenience. However, the glasses fall short in coverage compared to other models, and the nose piece isn’t the supplest, making it slightly less adjustable. Smaller testers noted that the glasses tended to slip during particularly rough trails, but overall, their lightweight design and adaptability make them a solid choice for trail enthusiasts.
Scott Pro Shield
The Scott Pro Shield delivers a reliable experience for trail riders, available at:
- £100/$110/€120
With robust frames and an excellent field of view, these glasses are perfect for those who want both functionality and durability. The tall frame and orange lens ensure optimal performance across a variety of trail conditions, from overcast skies to dappled light. The lens ventilation is somewhat minimal, but the frame sits slightly away from the face, allowing good airflow for added comfort.
The temple tips, which are short and tuck behind the ears, provide a secure and comfortable fit, avoiding interference with helmet straps. The styling is another strong point, giving these glasses an extra edge. However, this particular lens isn’t ideal for bright, direct sunshine, although glare is minimal. A notable downside is that the Pro Shields don’t fit smaller faces as well, making them better suited for riders with larger facial profiles.
BBB Avenger
The BBB Avenger glasses are a budget-friendly option at:
- £50
These glasses sit close to your face, especially near the cheeks, but still offer good ventilation thanks to the cutaways at the top of the lens. The nose piece is adjustable, allowing you to tweak the fit for comfort and stability. With three lenses included—a dark tint, yellow for low light, and a clear lens—these glasses provide excellent value for riders who need versatility. Swapping the lenses is straightforward by simply popping them out of the frame, and there are no issues with optics, ensuring a clear view.
The broad-framed design does come with some drawbacks. The arms can interfere with helmets, and some fine-tuning with the nosepiece may be required to achieve the perfect fit and prevent the glasses from touching your eyelashes. Despite these minor issues, the BBB Avenger stands out as a practical and cost-effective choice for riders looking for reliable best mountain biking glasses.
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Viris Raptor
The Viris Raptor glasses offer an incredible mix of versatility and affordability, priced at:
- £65/€72
With four lenses, a cleaning cloth, and both soft and hard cases included, these glasses are an excellent value. The yellow lens effectively boosts light, while the rose lens adds contrast, and the mirror lens works well in bright, clear conditions. These glasses are optically good, ensuring no eye strain even on longer rides.
The nosepiece provides ample adjustability, and the arm grippers help to prevent sliding, keeping the glasses secure during rides. Fogging is minimal, but there are some drawbacks. They may rattle against the lid, and getting the arms under more protective helmets can be tricky. Additionally, swapping lenses takes a bit of effort. Despite these minor issues, the Viris Raptor stands out as a reliable option for riders who want performance on a budget.
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Madison Stealth
The Madison Stealth is a fantastic choice for riders looking for affordability and comfort, priced at:
- £35
These glasses are incredibly comfortable to wear all day, thanks to their low weight, which makes them barely noticeable on the face. The frameless design provides full visibility, and the adjustable nose piece aids the fit, ensuring they sit securely without discomfort. For an additional £20, you can upgrade to a three-lens pack that includes clear and yellow lenses, offering great versatility for different lighting conditions.
Swapping the lenses is remarkably easy, achieved with a simple twist of the arms. However, the lens isn’t the deepest, which allows splashes to get under the glasses. Additionally, the frame’s flexibility results in a slight lack of security over rougher terrain, making them less ideal for aggressive rides. Despite these minor issues, the Madison Stealth stands out as a lightweight and practical option for everyday trail use.
Oakley Flight Jacket Photochromic
The Oakley Flight Jacket Photochromic offers cutting-edge features for riders, priced at:
- £217/$226/€218/AU$295
With a high-quality photochromic lens, these glasses adapt quickly, transitioning from clear to dark to suit changing light conditions. The frame-less top design ensures unhindered vision when your head’s down, making them ideal for aggressive trails. True to Oakley’s build quality, these glasses are durable with excellent spare availability and backup support. The adjustable fit keeps them securely in place, even when you’re sweaty, while the innovative Advancer nose bridge allows you to move the lens forward from your face to prevent fogging.
However, the nose bridge can be tricky to adjust on the fly, and shifting it affects the weight distribution, giving a slightly heavier feel compared to other models. Swapping lenses isn’t as easy as with other Oakley models, and the price is on the high side. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Oakley Flight Jacket Photochromic stands out for its superior technology and performance, making it a top choice for serious bikers.
Julbo Fury
The Julbo Fury glasses provide excellent stability and comfort, available at:
- £83/$140/€110
These secure glasses feature short arms that fit perfectly with a range of helmets. The soft rubber temple tips rest comfortably above the ears, ensuring a snug fit during rides. The green mirror lens performs exceptionally in bright sunlight, effectively cutting glare and providing clear vision. With ample ventilation, these glasses remain fog-free, making them ideal for long trails. Additionally, the frame is well-designed, staying non-distracting while riding.
However, the Julbo Fury doesn’t have the most premium feel, and the lens tint isn’t well-suited for darker conditions—though lighter options are available. Another minor issue is that the top of the frame sits slightly low, occasionally entering your field of view. Despite these drawbacks, the Julbo Fury offers solid performance for riders looking for comfort and versatility at an affordable price.
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Melon Kingpin Trail
The Melon Kingpin Trail glasses combine style and functionality, priced at:
- £130/$159/€150/AU$229
These shades come with a quality Zeiss lens and are fully customizable, offering a choice of seven frame colors and six lens tints, including a photochromic option. An interchangeable low-light lens is also included, providing versatility for various conditions. The amber lens performed well during testing, offering generous coverage and effectively minimizing glare. The frame is lightweight and only faintly noticeable in peripheral vision, ensuring an uninterrupted view.
However, the glasses can be difficult to sit well, especially with long arms fouling helmet cradles. The skinny temple pads may not always feel secure, particularly on bumpy rides, and the lack of lens vents can lead to fogging in certain conditions. Despite these drawbacks, the Melon Kingpin Trail glasses excel in their design and adaptability, making them a solid choice for riders seeking personalized gear.
dhb Fractal Revo
The dhb Fractal Revo glasses deliver great value and are ideal for bright conditions, priced at:
- £70/$94/€81/AU$120
These glasses feature a reflective lens that blocks over 80 percent of light, making them well-suited for open terrain on sunny days. They effectively reduce brightness and minimize glare greatly, ensuring clear vision. The full frame, designed for small to medium-sized faces, doesn’t impinge on vision, and the highly-sprung frame and arms provide a secure grip even on rough trails while remaining comfortable for all-day rides.
However, the dark blue-ish lens isn’t the best in dappled light, where reduced contrast can make spotting trail obstacles tricky. Additionally, for this price, the lack of an adjustable nose piece and a more premium feel is a slight disappointment. Despite these drawbacks, the dhb Fractal Revo glasses are a solid choice for riders prioritizing affordability and performance in sunny conditions.
Julbo Fury Reactiv
The Julbo Fury Reactive glasses deliver impressive protection with a large lens, available at:
- £155/€190
These glasses are designed for optimal performance, with the lens being attached to the frame in just a few key areas, allowing excellent ventilation and preventing undue fogging. The photochromic Reactiv lens adapts to light quickly, though not as fast as Oakley’s equivalent, offering reliable performance across different lighting conditions. The flexible rubbery section on the split arms ensures comfort over the ears, while the nosepiece provides a secure fit even during intense rides.
However, despite their functionality, the glasses lack the premium feel expected at this high price. The non-adjustable nosepiece and the flimsy feel of the lens, which isn’t fully attached around the frame, might not appeal to everyone. Nevertheless, the Julbo Fury Reactive glasses remain a strong choice for riders prioritizing ventilation and adaptable light conditions.
What type of coverage should I look for?
When choosing the best mountain bike sunglasses, focus on a larger lens for better coverage, as it helps in protecting your face from errant trail debris. However, avoid going too big, as overly large glasses might interfere with your helmet. Ideally, the design should have some curvature to wrap around your face, providing side protection and helping to prevent wind and light from sneaking around the edge and causing your eyes to water.
What type of lens is best for mountain biking?
Avoid wearing sunnies with glass lenses on the trail, even if they’re stylish Ray-Bans or other fashion-focused shades. While these look great, they can put your eyesight in danger. On the trail, the main job of eyewear is to protect your eyes. A pebble kicked up by a riding mate at speeds of 60kph could easily shatter a glass lens and cause serious harm. Instead, choose polycarbonate lenses or other impact-rated material that won’t shatter into your eye.
Look for lenses with a hydrophobic coating on the outside, as this prevents moisture and oil from smearing your vision. Whether it’s sweat dripping from your helmet or water from a stream crossing, this coating allows droplets to bead and run off, keeping your glasses clear. Additionally, lenses with venting can help prevent fogging during tough climbs, such as a slog up a steep fire road, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride.
What color lens works best for mountain biking?
When mountain biking through areas with tree cover, the right color tint lens can make a huge difference in spotting obstacles like a slick root before you ride over it. Lenses with red or amber shades work best to enhance contrast, making it easier for your eyes to spot trail features, even in low-light settings like forests. This added clarity ensures better visibility and safer rides.
Many optical brands like Oakley’s Prizm and Smith’s ChromaPop offer color filters specifically designed for mountain biking. These technologies apply unique colors to filter out specific colors, sharpening contrast while enhancing detail visibility and depth awareness. While each brand’s system is slightly different, they all focus on giving riders a clearer vision in a variety of conditions, making them a valuable choice for any trail enthusiast.
What frame do I need?
The frame of your mountain bike sunglasses is key to ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. Avoid metal-framed glasses, as they are not built to withstand impact and can create sharp edges that might harm your eyeballs or face in the event of a crash.
The majority of biking glasses have a half-frame structure, where the frame is attached to the top of the lens, leaving the bottom edge open. However, newer riding sunnies, such as the Oakley Flight Jacket and Ryders Roam, place the frame along the bottom edge of the lens for a different look and feel.
You can also find full-frame glasses for maximum durability or frameless glasses for a lightweight design. Choosing the right frame depends on your preferences and riding style. Whether you want the secure fit of a full frame or the sleek profile of a frameless design, the frame type will affect your overall biking experience.
Is the fit important for mountain bike sunglasses?
Yes, the fit of your glasses is crucial for comfort and stability. A good pair should only touch your nose and the back of your head behind the ears. Look for a rubber nose piece with some adjustability built-in and ear stocks that are long enough but don’t interfere with the retention system on your helmet. The three points of contact—nose, ears, and face—should work together to keep your glasses stuck in place. Additionally, grippers on the ear stocks provide just the right amount of tension to hold the glasses securely without causing a headache.
