How to Choose the Right Cycling and Biking Sunglasses

Don’t let wearing glasses stop you from enjoying your bike rides. Many assume they can’t find sunglasses that work for both cycling and their vision needs. But the good news is that options have increased dramatically in recent years. Whether you have basic needs or stronger prescriptions, sport-specific cycling glasses provide UV protection and clear vision on the road.

 

Choosing the right pair takes a little research. In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when finding cycling sunglasses perfect for your prescription and active lifestyle. From lens material and frame design to warranty and retailers, learn what questions to ask so you can welcome brighter, safer rides while seeing clearly at any speed.

 

Why do we need biking sunglasses?

 

When cycling outside, you encounter many elements that could harm your eyes. While going at speed, even the smallest particles like dust, debris, or insects could cause eye injuries if they fly into your eye. Without protection, a simple rock kicked up by a tire or fallen tree branch along the path could seriously damage your vision.

 

In the long term, the sun’s UV rays bouncing off every surface, like the road or nearby vehicles, are hazardous for your eyes. Prolonged exposure to UV light without sunglasses can lead to serious eye conditions over time, like cataracts (cloudy lenses in eyes) and pterygium (non-cancerous growth of the conjunctiva). Dehydrating the eyes may also cause dry eye syndrome, resulting in stinging or burning sensations.

 

For safety and eye care, wearing 100% UV-protected cycling sunglasses is non-negotiable. The tinted lenses filter out damaging UV rays and high-energy visible (HEV) blue light. They also protect from wind, debris, and bugs without compromising visibility while cycling at speed.

 

Take a look at the frame’s shape

 

The shape of your sunglasses frame is important. It affects how good they look on you and how well they work. Here are some common frame shapes to consider:

 

•  Wraparound frames: These frames fully wrap around your eyes. They give the best protection from wind, dust, and other things. But they may block some of your side vision.  Wrap-around frames can come in several forms:

 

• Full rim frames: The rim goes all around the lenses. It protects your eyes well. Full-rim glasses are durable. However, the rim around the lenses can sometimes block off peripheral vision.  However, they are great if you want to wear your cycling glasses for other things besides cycling as they will look more like a regular pair of everyday sunglasses.  The full-rim glasses usually do not have any venting as well.  If going full-rim, look for styles that do have vent cutouts in the lenses. 

 

• Half-rim frames: Only the top part of the frames has a rim. It gives better peripheral vision than full-rim frames. Half-rim frames are also lighter. They are typically designed to channel the wind down on top of the lens to help prevent the fogging of the lenses.

 

• Rimless frames: These frames don’t have any rim on the top or bottom!  There is a little rim on the side to connect the earpieces to the lens.  Rimless frames look very thin and clean. They have the best side vision.  Like half-rim frames, they can have vents to channel the wind across the lens to help with fogging. However, since there is no solid frame around the lenses, they have more weak points in the lens and may break more easily if they are dropped or if you take a fall.

 

• Flatter frames:  Flatter frames that don’t wrap around will offer minimal protection. It is better than wearing nothing but they won’t give you the side coverage for wind and UV.  These are only recommended if you have a high prescription that requires a flatter lens and you are unable to wear wrap-around frames. 

 

With this in mind, choose a frame shape based on the protection you need and your lifestyle. Wraparound frames will protect you the best.  Rimless and semi-rimless frames help channel the wind better, but may not offer the look you want.  Consider your needs for other outdoor sports when choosing a frame shape.

 

Choosing The Right Frame Material

 

The material used to construct the frame of your cycling sunglasses is an important factor to consider. The frame must be durable enough to withstand falls or impacts during rides. The two most common materials used are Grilamid T90 and nylon, with Rislan, a new bio-material making its way on the scene.

 

Grilamid T90

Grilamid T90, also known as TR90, is a lightweight, flexible, and highly durable thermoplastic material that can withstand high temperatures without melting or warping.

 

Pros:

• It is very lightweight and flexible, which provides comfort.
• Extremely durable - will not break or bend easily, even after impacts.
• Heat resistant up to high temperatures.

Cons:

• T90 frames tend to be more expensive than other materials.
• Color options may be more limited compared to nylon.

 

Nylon

Nylon is a plastic polymer that is affordable and versatile. It is lightweight and available in a wide range of colors.

 

Pros:

• More affordable option compared to T90.
• It comes in many stylish color options to choose from.
• Lightweight and comfortable on the face.

Cons:

• It’s not as durable or flexible as T90. More prone to breaking after impacts.
• Color may fade with prolonged sun exposure or sweat over time.

 

RISLAN:

RILSAN® is a high-performance sustainable and bio-based polymer.  Rislan is lightweight, flexible, and durable. RISLAN is a brand of bio-based polyamide derived from renewable resources, primarily castor oil. Unlike conventional polyamides, which are petroleum-based, RISLAN is created using castor beans, making it a more sustainable option.

 

Pros:  

• Strong  and excellent resistance to impact
•  Lightweight reducing the overall weight of cycling glasses and ensuring they remain comfortable during long rides.
• Flexible so it conforms to the face better for a comfortable and secure fit.  

Cons:

• More expensive than other frame materials
• Limited availability–only a few manufacturers currently offer this option 

 

So, while nylon is cheaper, T90 or RISLAN provide the best durability.  RISLAN is the best material for cycling use. The frame material depends on your priority - protection, weight, or cost-effectiveness.

 

Prescription mounting options 

 

Prescription sunglasses are an important consideration for cyclists who require vision correction. Here are the different techniques used to incorporate prescription lenses into cycling sunglasses:

 

RX Insert:

This method inserts removable prescription lenses directly into the frame behind the sunglass lenses. This allows wearing prescription lenses or sunglasses interchangeably as needed. However, inserts can make the frames feel bulkier r and don’t provide as wide of a range of vision. Also, you can see the outline of the insert behind lighter-colored lenses. Cosmetically, people don’t like that others can see they are wearing a prescription.    However, inserts do allow for the widest range of prescription powers if you have a high or complicated prescription. 

 

Direct In (full lens):

The full lens is made to the prescription. There are no extra parts. The lenses are cut precisely to fit the frames. For full-rim frames, you will only be able to use one lens color, or a photochromic lens that changes color. Thus, if you wanted to interchange lenses for various lighting conditions,  you would be limited to direct-in mounting with a full rim frame. However, if you do the semi-rimless frames, you can swap out lenses for different lighting conditions. However, you will have to pay for a prescription lens in every color which can make it pricier.  Versus the inserts that allow you to use one prescription lens with multiple color lenses in front. You also can do any color you want with this type of mounting and are not limited to only the colors the manufacturer normally makes on the frame in non-prescription.  Direct lenses are the most popular option as they will look the most like you don’t have a prescription. However, if you have a higher prescription, the lenses will come out thicker with the larger lens size.  Cosmetically these look nicer than inserts, but higher prescription wearers may be self-conscious of the thicker lenses.   

 

r: Direct Adapter: 

Unlike the insert that snaps in behind the lenses, the adapter in this case replaces the lens of the frame.  This turns a semi-rimless frame into a full-rim frame.  It will give you the look and wrap-around coverage of a semi-rimless frame, but with a flatter lens to accommodate a higher prescription. Similar to semi-rimless direct-in mounting, the adapter will allow you to also interchange lenses for various light conditions.  This option is a good option for those with higher prescriptions. It will cut down the thickness and the adapter typically hides some of that thickness and weight for high prescriptions.    

 

Full lens cut into shield:

Prescriptions require a separate lens for each eye.  When you have the full shield design, you need a place for the right and left eye prescriptions.  Thus, a hole is cut into the shield and the full prescription lens is fitted to sit within that “cut out”.  It eliminates the need for inserts or adapters. However, cutting lenses precisely to fit frames can be challenging. Therefore, the prices and availability for such inserts may vary.   Also, the prescription lens may not fully match the cut-out area and the shield around the lens so you will cosmetically see the outline of where the hole is cut into the lens.  Functionally this works the most like a non-prescription shield.  However, cosmetically may not be as pleasant. 

 

Ghost Ocular Mounting:

Ghost ocular mounting is a brand-new technology.  Similar to the “cut outs” in the shield, instead of cutting into the shield, the lens is glued to the inside of the shield. This creates the best option cosmetically.  You can barely see that there is a prescription since the lens is on the backside, and you don’t see any thickness on the edges of the lens as the thicker prescription lens is only in the center of the frame.  This technology, since it is new, is very limited with only a few brands offering it at this time. It is also the most expensive of all the options.  Also,  it is limited in the color of lenses you can use as it is limited to certain brands and lens color options.  

 

No matter what mounting option you choose, all these techniques aim to provide vision correction seamlessly while you are cycling. If you are budget-conscious but also want to swap out lenses for various light conditions, choose inserts. Or if you wear contacts and only want to wear prescriptions sometimes, then inserts or Direct In options allow you to use your glasses with or without a prescription.

 

If you want the flexibility of having the most lens colors available, the Direct In option is best.  But if you have a higher prescription, then inserts, Direct Adapters, or Ghost Oculars are the best for more complicated prescriptions.  If you want the option that cosmetically people can’t tell you have a prescription, the Ghost Oculars will be the most streamlined option.    Discuss your specific needs with an optician to choose the most suitable option.

 

Choosing the right fit

 

When you buy sunglasses for cycling, one of the most important things to consider is getting the right fit. Sunglasses that don’t fit properly will not stay in place when riding and may fall off or slip down your face. This can be dangerous because your eyes are no longer protected from the sun, wind, and debris.

 

There are generally four sizes of sunglasses: small, medium, large, and extra large. You must measure your face to determine which size is best for you. Wrapping a soft measuring tape around the widest part of your face, over your cheekbones. This is your face size measurement.

 

• Small fit - For faces measuring 51-55cm
• Medium fit - For faces measuring 56-60cm
• Large fit - For faces measuring 61-65cm
• Extra large - For faces measuring 66cm or more

 

This is not an exact science. It is a guideline as everyone’s facial features are different.  But it helps guide you to what may be the best fit without being able to try them on.  It is best to try them for fit first before putting prescription lenses in them.

  

Let’s understand each fit in more detail to figure out which option would be the best for you.

 

Small Fit Sunglasses

 

Sunglasses with a small fit suit people with narrow or small faces. It is important to make sure small-fit sunglasses hug your face closely and don’t move around when cycling. There should be minimal gaps on the sides. The temples or arms of the sunglasses should not stick out awkwardly. While those with smaller faces sometimes try to wear bigger frames to increase protection, having the proper fit will ensure maximum wind protection and have less chance of interfering with your helmet.  However, small fit frames typically come with smaller nose bridges so they may not be as comfortable for those with larger noses.

 

Medium Fit Sunglasses

 

Medium-fit sunglasses are designed for people with average-sized faces. Most people fall into this category.  When trying medium-fit sunglasses, see if they sit comfortably on your nose without being too tight or loose. The temples should curve slightly behind your ears. Make sure the sunglasses don’t move around or slide down your nose easily when you shake your head.

 

Large Fit Sunglasses

 

For cyclists with larger faces, large-fit sunglasses work best. The frames are more spacious to fit over wider cheekbones and noses comfortably. The lenses also tend to be larger. Sunglasses that are too small can cause discomfort by putting pressure on the side of the head. Large-fit sunglasses provide adequate coverage and ventilation for those with bigger facial features.

 

Extra Large Sunglasses

 

For cyclists with very large faces, extra-large sunglasses offer the best fit. These have the widest and most spacious frames to fit over extra wide cheekbones and noses comfortably. The temples curve widely and rest comfortably behind your ears. Extra large sunglasses are essential for long rides as they prevent slippage, allow airflow, and don’t cause pressure points. 

 

So, it is important to choose cycling sunglasses that fit your unique facial structure for comfort, protection, and performance on the bike.

 

Choosing the right lens technology 

 

You’ll need to pick the right lens technology when shopping for new sunglasses. The lens is an important part of sunglasses as it determines what light and glare are filtered. Here are some common lens types and what to consider for cycling:

 

Polarized Lenses

 

Polarized lenses have an extra glare filter inside the lens.  Polarized lenses are great for cutting glare. They filter horizontal light, which reduces reflections. This is good for road cycling where glare can be daunting off the asphalt road. However, polarized lenses are dark so may be too dark in lower-light situations.  Also, the polarized filter can make it harder to read bike computers if you use one.

 

Photochromatic Lenses

 

Photochromic lenses darken and lighten depending on lighting conditions, which is convenient for varied weather. However, the change isn’t always instantaneous, so they may not adapt quickly enough to changes in shade or going through tunnels .

 

In general, polarized lenses work well for sunny rides, and photochromatic lenses are convenient for changing weather. Try different lens types to suit your typical riding routes and conditions best. The right lens type makes sunglasses more effective.

 

Choosing the right lens tint color

 

It’s important to consider the weather conditions and the type of track/route you’ll be cycling on when selecting the right lens tint. Note that different tints perform better in certain lighting. Let us look at those: 

 

Grey or Tinted Lenses

These lens tints are considered neutral as they don’t distort colors too much. They are best when the true color of obstacles and road signs is important, like for road cycling.

 

Pros:

• Provide clear vision without distorting colors too much
• Good for general outdoor riding in sunny or overcast conditions

Cons:

• It may not offer maximum contrast compared to other tints
• The true color of obstacles and signs could be harder to distinguish

 

Brown, Yellow, Amber Tinted Lenses

 

Lenses with a yellow or amber tint are excellent for low-light conditions like overcast skies or shaded areas under trees. This makes them beneficial for mountain biking on trails.  Brown lenses have yellow in them so they also make an excellent choice for brighter conditions but in and out of trees as they are dark enough in bright conditions, but not too dark in the shade.  Yellow lenses are good for very rainy days or for riding at dusk or dawn. 

Pros:

• Enhance contrast and depth perception, making obstacles easier to spot
• Beneficial for low-light conditions like foggy or cloudy weather

Cons:

• Colors appear slightly distorted, which could impact the identification of traffic lights
• It may not be suitable if accurate color vision is important

 

Rose or Orange based tints:

Rose or orange-based tints increase contrast and depth perception on overcast days.  Rose lenses are typically preferred by road cyclists. Orange is usually preferred by mountain bikers. 

 

Pros:

• Increase contrast and depth perception in overcast conditions
• Make it easier to see uneven terrain for mountain biking in and out of trees

Cons:

• Changes color perception so objects will look different than normal which can be unnatural for some people

 

Mirrored or Flash Coating Lenses

 

These lenses have a reflective coating that reflects additional sunlight to further reduce glare.   However, they also darken the view more than other tints. Mirrored lenses are ideal for rides with the potential for high glare, like a sunny coastal trail.

 

Pros:

• Greatly reduces glare on bright sunny days.
• Help cut down on eye strain from strong sunlight.

Cons:

• Darken the view more than other tints.
• Make it harder for people to see your eyes if riding in a group. 
• May reflect additional glare onto drivers making it harder for the drivers of cars to see you. 

 

Lens treatment 

 

Lens treatments play an important role in the performance and safety of cycling sunglasses. Several key treatments should be considered when purchasing a new pair:

 

UV Protection Layer:

UV rays aren’t just harmful to your skin. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, you must know that your eyes may be exposed to harmful UV radiation. While this may not cause discomfort initially, long-term exposure can lead to eye conditions like cataracts, photokeratitis, and macular degeneration. So, it is important to look for cycling sunglasses with a UV protection layer to shield your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. Look for at least 99-100% UV protection. 

 

Anti-Fog Coating:

Foggy lenses can seriously impact visibility while riding. An anti-fog coating helps prevent moisture from building up inside the lenses. This keeps your vision clear in changing temperature and humidity conditions, like when riding in the rain or switching from warm indoors to cold outdoors.

 

Hydrophobic Treatment:

Like an anti-fog layer, a hydrophobic (“water-fearing”) treatment causes water droplets to bead up and roll off the lens surface rather than leave streaks. This is useful for maintaining clear vision when riding on wet roads or inclement weather.

 

Oleo Treatment:

An oleophobic (“oil-fearing”) treatment prevents oils from fingerprints or skin from sticking to the lens and leaving smears. It helps keep lenses clear and easy to wipe clean when needed.

 

Anti-Scratch Coating:

Scratches on lenses can impair visibility and reduce eye protection over time. Look for a scratch-resistant coating, especially for polycarbonate lenses, to keep lenses looking new for longer with regular use and cleaning.

Choosing sunglasses with these lens treatments leads to optimum clarity, comfort, and safety for cycling in various conditions throughout the year.

 

Other things to keep in mind 

 

Apart from factors like lens tint, lens treatment, and frame material, it is also important to see if your frame has been designed for maximum comfort. Here are some things to consider when you take a look at your frame’s design:

 

• Air vents—It’s important to have small holes or openings in the frame so air can move freely around your eyes. This helps prevent fogging up when you’re sweating, or it’s humid outside.

 

• Flexible nose pieces - Look for sunglasses that let you bend or adjust the part that rests on your nose. This helps you get a good fit so they don’t slip down your face while riding.

 

• Adjustable Ear Pieces  - Some frames come with adjustable earpieces that allow you to tighten the glasses around your ears. Make sure these can bend or slide to fit the sunglasses comfortably under your bike helmet.

 

• Cord or strap - If your sunglasses start to slip, it’s good if they come with a cord or strap that you can attach around the back of your head. This helps keep them from falling off if they slide down your face.

 

• Sweat bar:   Some frames have a “sweat bar” made of foam to absorb sweat and prevent it from entering your eyes.  

 

You must prioritize getting a good fit, having openings for airflow, and making any adjustments you need for comfort under your bike helmet. These small design features can make a big difference in keeping your sunglasses in place as you ride.

 

Choosing cycling sunglasses by affordability 

 

The price of cycling sunglasses can vary a lot depending on the features and quality. It’s important to think about what you need from your sunglasses before choosing a pair.

 

At the lower end of the budget, you can find basic cycling sunglasses for as little as $25. These protect your eyes from the sun but may not have advanced features or durable frames.

 

Mid-range prescription sunglasses from $50-150 will offer better lens options, like interchangeable lenses. The frames may also be more comfortable and durable for longer rides. Many brands have options in this price range.

 

High-end sunglasses range between $150-350. These typically have top-quality lenses, lightweight frames, and premium features. The lenses may offer advanced light filtration, and the frames are often fully adjustable to fit perfectly.

 

At Sporteyes, we offer a wide selection at different price points. Moreover, we have free shipping on orders over $75, so you can find affordable sunglasses without worrying about additional expenses.  

 

Choosing biking sunglasses by brand 

 

We’ve got a wide variety of biking sunglasses brands to choose from. If you prioritize performance and breathability, consider Adidas. Their lenses are designed to be high-quality, and their frames allow maximum airflow to prevent fogging.

 

Bolle is another great choice for athletes. They create sunglasses with sport in mind, using lightweight yet durable materials. For interchangeable lenses, look at brands like Tifosi and Nordik.  Both offer sunglasses with lenses that can easily be swapped out depending on the lighting conditions. 

 

If you want sunglasses from a trusted cycling brand, check out options from Julbo and Rudy Project. Julbo is a leader in goggles and sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection when you go out for biking, skiing, and other outdoor sports. Rudy Project is the number one cycling brand in Europe and worn by Tour de France athletes. They feature high-performance features,  lenses that adapt to any lighting condition, and custom fit.

 

Remember to consider fit and your prescription needs, if applicable. Refer to this guide carefully when selecting cycling or biking sunglasses to find a top-performing pair at the right price from a brand you trust, Sporteyes. Safety and comfort should be the top priorities.

 

Make The Right Choice With Sporteyes 

 

Now that you know what goes into buying a pair of cycling sunglasses, it is time that you make the right choice for yourself. So, don’t go in blind. Make a checklist of some features you’d want your sunglasses to have and just browse through our vast catalogue. Remember to consider fit and your prescription needs, if applicable. 

 

If you need some help while selecting a pair of biking sunglasses, you can always come back and refer to this guide or drop in a call/email.  At Sporteyes, your vision and comfort are of the utmost importance to us. Let’s get you pumped and ready for your next cycling adventure!  Shop for the best cycling sunglasses, today.