Cycling sunglasses lessen glare and visual strain in direct sunshine. But perhaps more importantly, they guard your precious eyes against wind, flying debris, errant branches, or pesky bugs.

　　From fast group road rides and long journeys on gravel to mountain biking on singletrack and bike park terrain, we never ride without eye protection. Cycling sunglasses shield our eyes from the elements during winter sufferfests in frigid temperatures. They also do their job in the sweltering heat and oppressive humidity of summers in the South.

　　Our cycling editor, Seiji Ishii, was our head tester, and hes been sampling cycling glasses for nearly 40 years. From the original Oakley Factory Pilot Eyeshades in 1984 to the plentiful crop of todays cycling-specific sunglasses, Ishii has tested countless shades to find the best.

　　Read on for our recommended cycling sunglasses from the seemingly endless and ever-growing list of viable candidates. For a full rundown on what to look for in a pair of cycling sunglasses, head down to our Buyers Guide and Price Value section, or take a look a our Comparison Chart to see these sunnies specs and pricing side-by-side.

　　Editors Note: We updated this guide on November 19, 2024, with the addition of the affordable Tifosi Moab, the Smith Shift XL MAG, and a Price Value summary to explain what you get at different price points.

　　The Best Cycling Sunglasses of 2024 Best Overall Cycling Sunglasses for Road Riding: RŌKA Matador Air Best Budget Cycling Sunglasses: Tifosi Moab Best Photochromic Cycling Sunglasses: Smith Shift XL MAG Best Cycling Sunglasses for Mountain Biking: Koo Demos Best Cycling Sunglasses for Maximum Lens Coverage: Sweet Protection Memento RIG Reflect Best Cycling Sunglasses for Smaller Faces: Smith Bobcat Best Cycling Sunglasses for Larger Faces: Rudy Project Kelion RŌKA Matador Air $240 at AmazonCheck Price at Roka

　　Specs Verified weight: 28 g Frame material: TR-90 nylon Lens material: Nylon Pros Very good wind protection for lens size Very light feel on the face Excellent, crisp optics 2-year warranty Cons Frame feels a bit more flexible than some Seiji Ishii Its rare that we arent irritated by some niggling aspect of a consumer product. It is indeed part of the job as a reviewer to find the downsides, but the RŌKA Matador Air ($230-250, depending on lens tint) made this task difficult. Through plentiful miles of testing across dusty gravel, hot tarmac, and twisty singletrack, we were hard-pressed to fill in this reviews cons column.

　　From the zero-distortion 7-base cylindrical lens, excellent contrast (we chose HC Fusion Mirror for the bright Texas sun, out of eight possible tints), to the barely-there feel of the fit, there wasnt a real negative to point out. The RŌKA Matador Air was supremely comfortable and never got out of place. They never had to be readjusted, even on stutter-stepped high-speed gravel sections.

　　The Matador Air had such a discreet fit that we often forgot they were on, pulling our helmet off before the glasses, sending them flying. Luckily, they have suffered no damage.

　　The vertical and horizontal lens coverage kept eyes from drying or getting irritated, even in the most brutal and dusty headwinds, while maintaining adequate venting in humid conditions.

　　RŌKa provides four GEKO nose pads for a precise fit, and the unique bend in the temples cleared all of the helmet straps (and we have a lot of helmets).

　　The only negative we could find was a subjective one; the Matador Air feels flexible compared to others. This may have added to the barely there feel, but some could deem the amount of flexibility a negative.

　　Best Budget Cycling Sunglasses Tifosi Moab $80 at Tifosi Optics$80 at Amazon

　　Specs Verified weight: 31 g Frame material: Grilamid TR-90 Lens material: Shatterproof polycarbonate Pros Reasonably priced Comes with 3 lenses plus zippered case Photochromic lens option available Great coverage Stylish Cons Optics are really good, but a touch below the premium options High temples may conflict with some extended coverage mtb helmets Seiji Ishii Protective, stylish, and functional cycling sunglasses can be wildly expensive, which is why weve always appreciated the value offered by Tifosi Optics. The brand consistently sells its sunglasses for a fraction of the price of the high-end competition without sacrificing much in the way of performance. The Tifosi Moab ($80) is one of its latest models, and these shades impressed us enough to secure their place as our budget pick.

　　The Moab sunglasses have a full-frame design and a large lens that provides excellent coverage and protection from dust, debris, and UV rays. Theyve got a trendy style while deftly avoiding the decidedly racy looks of Tifosis frameless models like the Rail or Rail Race. The fit is on the medium to large end of the spectrum, and we found them to be quite comfortable. Thanks to the hydrophilic rubber on the adjustable nose pads and arms, they also stayed in place well on sweaty, rough mountain bike rides.

　　One thing worth mentioning, however, is that the high position of the arms by the temples can potentially conflict with the shells of some modern, extended-coverage mountain bike helmets. This shouldnt be a widespread issue, but its something to look out for, depending on your helmet choice.

　　The optics of the shatterproof polycarbonate lenses are quite good, especially considering the price. While they arent quite on par with lenses from Smith, Oakley, and others, most people would be hard-pressed to notice the difference. They also come with three interchangeable lenses — mirrored, A/C red, and clear — so youre prepared for any light condition. Or, buyers can opt for the Fototec photochromic lens which automatically adjusts to changing light conditions for the same price.

　　Tifosi includes a zippered hard case along with a microfiber storage and lens cleaning bag which only adds to the impressive value offered here. If youre looking for stylish and functional cycling sunglasses but cant stomach the price of the premium brands, check out the Tifosi Moab. If you prefer something frameless, scroll down to the page to learn more about the Tifosi Rail Race.

　　Best Photochromic Cycling Sunglasses Smith Shift XL MAG $275 at evo$200 at AmazonCheck Price at Smith Optics

　　Specs Verified weight: 26 g Frame material: TR-90 nylon Lens material: Polycarbonate Pros Chromapop Photochromic lens is the best weve tried Tint adjusting lens means youre ready for any condition Great coverage Light weight Several other lens options offered Cons Expensive Seiji Ishii Smith Optics has been producing some of the best and most popular cycling sunglasses on the market for some time. Recently, the brand introduced a new lens, adding its signature Chromapop lens enhancement to the self-adjusting Photochromic lens. Our cycling editor recently tested this new lens in the Smith Shift XL MAG ($285 to $305, depending on the lens), and he quickly decided these are the best photochromic lenses hes tested to date.

　　What sets these apart is the ChromaPop lens, which is unique among photochromic styles. Its the only light-sensitive lens our editor has used that maintains color separation and enhances contrast. He found the ability to discern a fine layer of talcum-powder-like dust on top of hard-packed clay of the same hue crucial to maintaining speed in corners during gravel rides. He felt the same about recognizing deep layers of fallen leaves on shady mountain bike trails.

　　The impressive lens area-to-weight ratio — it weighs a verified 26 grams, and the lens is 142mm x 60mm — provides excellent coverage and eye protection. While light on the face, the full-frame design felt sturdy and had a secure, no-slip fit. For those with smaller faces or lower coverage needs, Smith also makes the Shift MAG with slightly smaller lens dimensions.

　　Smith makes the Shift XL MAG is six other non-photochromic lens options, which cost a bit less — but they still arent cheap at $285. Each pair comes with a spare clear lens, which is quick and easy to swap out with the magnetic lens change system. For the high asking price, we appreciate that they come with a zippered hard case for storage and travel.

　　Given the impressive performance and versatility of the Chromapop Photochromic lens, the Shift XL MAG has become our cycling editors go-to when packing for trips, and the weather and riding conditions are unknown. If you prefer a different style, this new lens is available with a few of Smiths other performance sunglass models, including the Bobcat described below.

　　Best Cycling Sunglasses for Mountain Biking KOO Demos Check Price at Competitive Cyclist$149 at Amazon

　　Specs Verified weight: 32 g Frame material: Grilamid polyamide Lens material: Zeiss polycarbonate Pros Sturdy frame Tight and secure fit Many frame colors and lens options available Cons Might be too tight for larger heads Seiji Ishii Our cycling editor lives and tests gear in Central Texas. This often means dodging errant cedar branches that line his favorite singletrack haunts. And this means plenty of opportunity to take branches to the helmet and face. For rides like this, he prefers rigid and stable glasses in case he misses and takes a branch straight to the face.

　　This tests most physically robust feeling glasses were the KOO Demos ($170-200, depending on lens tint). Their stout and full-rim Grilamid frame and Zeiss polycarbonate lens delivered confidence when speeds were high and sticks were aplenty. The Demos are a great option for any cyclist who prefers sturdiness over a light feeling or fit.

　　We also appreciated the protective nature and snug fit of the KOO Demos for days at the bike park when drops were bigger and more plentiful than on singletrack. But the possible downside is that they may feel too tight in the temples for some with larger heads. This tightness and rigidity of the glasses made the Demos our cycling editors default glasses for the bike park and any other riskier riding when protection and staying put were a priority.

　　The optics of KOOs lenses were clear, and the Blue Sky tint provided excellent contrast and clarity to help discern loose trail conditions at speed. Finally, the lens coverage balanced protection and ventilation, even on the hottest days.

　　Best Cycling Sunglasses for Maximum Lens Coverage Sweet Protection Memento RIG Reflect Check Price at AmazonCheck Price At Sweet Protection

　　Specs Verified weight: 30 g Frame material: TR-90 polyamid Lens material: Unknown Pros RIB Bixbite lens has excellent contrast Comes with three different nosepieces for better fit Deep and wide lens coverage without looking ridiculous Rigid frame produces a stable fit Good value Cons Venting might not be adequate in extreme conditions Seiji Ishii If large lens coverage is a priority, the Sweet Protection Memento RIG Reflect delivers the goods at a reasonable price of $130. The wide and deep lens kept our cycling editors eyes from drying out on the fastest sprints into the burliest headwinds. Deep lenses can often touch high cheekbones, but the three included nosepieces guaranteed the appropriate fit that kept the lenses off the face.

　　The RIG Bixbite lenses offered incredible contrast during mountain biking in the visually challenging conditions of sunny days under tree cover. The rapid switching between bright light and shade is a tough call for any lens tint, but the Sweet Protection RIG Bixbite did a stellar job, allowing us to see and react without strain.

　　The Sweet Protection Memento RIG Reflect are light for the coverage size, and they also had a light feel on the face but remained secure regardless of trail or gravel road chop.

　　Finally, these glasses often drew accolades from even the most fashion-forward roadies, which was rare for the larger coverage models during our testing period.

　　Best Cycling Sunglasses for Smaller Faces Smith Bobcat Check Price at Smith OpticsCheck Price at evo

　　Specs Verified weight: 28 g Frame material: Evolve bio-based Lens material: Polycarbonate Pros Super-light feel on the face Fits smaller faces well but still provides ample coverage Wide field of view for size Cons May not vent well enough in extreme conditions Lens felt thin compared to others Seiji Ishii The Smith Bobcat ($215 to $255, depending on lens) was one of the lightest cycling sunglasses in the test, and they felt light on the face. They disappeared quickly, making them a perfect choice for cyclists desiring the least obtrusive eye protection. This was especially true for those with smaller faces, as the Bobcat had a narrower stature than others while still providing ample lens coverage.

　　Our cycling editor tested the clear-to-gray photochromic lens and found the tint range perfect when heading out at dawn or returning at dusk. The clear setting was functional in super low-light conditions, allowing him to maintain eye protection from bugs when he miscalculated the pace to sunset equation a few times over the summer. Smith now offers the Bobcat with its Chromapop Photochromic lens, which we consider to be the best self-adjusting lens on the market.

　　The Bobcat fits closer to the face than some others and lacks lens vents. This combination may be prone to fogging in challenging conditions. Another potential downside is that the lens felt thinner and more flexible than others. Although there were zero durability issues over the testing period, it was a noticeable difference.

　　But for those with smaller faces, the Smith Bobcat delivers a more proportional fit while still providing great coverage. The Bobcat comes in a wide range of frame colors and lens tints in addition to the photochromic lens we tested. Each pair comes with a spare clear lens, a zippered hard case, and a microfiber cleaning/storage bag.

　　Best Cycling Sunglasses for Larger Faces Rudy Project Kelion $255 at Rudy Project

　　Specs Verified weight: 36 g Frame material: Rislan Clear bioplastic Lens material: polycarbonate, optical polyurethane for photochromic Pros Unique button-activated split frame makes lens swaps easy Wide fit with adjustable ear stems and nose piece makes for a great fit on larger heads Integrated Rx lens insert available Cons Might be too wide for smaller faces Frame might not be rigid enough for some Seiji Ishii Our cycling editor found the Rudy Project Kelion ($240) to be the best-fitting cycling sunglass in our test for larger faces. The wide and deep frame and lens, combined with an adjustable nose piece and temple tips, allowed an immaculate fit as long as the frame width was correct. Once adjusted, it was the one large-framed model that he forgot he had while riding.

　　The Kelion was one of only a few cycling sunglasses in this guide that utilized bio-plastic in the frame. Rudy Project employs a material dubbed Rislan Clear, which is remarkably 45% castor oil. The Kelion frame has a unique horizontally split frame, which can be separated by pushing two spring-loaded buttons. This makes removing or reinstalling lenses quick and frustration-free and guarantees longevity as there are no snap-in structures to wear out.

　　We found the Rudy Project ideal for road riding, as the expansive coverage area kept his contacts from drying out, even on the highest speed descents in the fiercest winds. His model had photochromic lenses that adjusted perfectly from pre-dawn light to the bright afternoon Texas summer sun.

　　Rudy Project offers an integrated prescription lens insert that doesnt look like an afterthought.

　　The potential downside to the castor-oil-based bioplastic frame is that they arent as rigid as their looks may imply. This might be concerning to some mountain bikers.

　　Other Cycling Sunglasses We Tested Tifosi Rail Race Check Price at Tifosi Check Price at Amazon

　　Specs Verified weight: 32 g Frame material: Grilamid TR-90 polyamide Lens material: Polycarbonate Pros The best value in cycling sunglasses Adjustable nose piece and temples for customization Good wind protection for lens size Cons Flexible compared to others Seiji Ishii We have always been impressed with the value proposition delivered by Tifosi and, once again, the Rail Race cycling sunglasses didnt disappoint.

　　For $80, we challenge you to find a better deal for sunglasses that genuinely do the job for even the most discerning cyclist. The Rail Race proved comfortable over long distances, with the adjustable nosepiece and temples allowing a custom fit. The glasses stayed put in all but the roughest terrain under heavy sweating. And the lens coverage protected the eyes regardless of wind speed or direction.

　　We swapped glasses on every ride for months on end, and at no time did a swap to the Tifosi Rail Race raise any thoughts based on how much less they cost than the others. It was quite the opposite; when he remembered the price, he felt nothing but impressed that the brand could produce and sell cycling glasses that functioned as well as these did.

　　The one downside would be primarily due to the rimless design. The Rail Race wasnt as rigid as others, which may deliver a less secure feeling for those with smaller faces. Some cyclists prefer a more rigid and robust feel to something tasked with protecting the eyes, especially when mountain biking.

　　But for an MSRP of $80, were confident that cyclists will be hard-pressed to find better cycling sunglasses for the money than the Tifosi Rail Race. You even get two lenses at this price, along with the usual case and microfiber bag.

　　Optic Nerve FixieMAX Photochromic $149 at Amazon

　　Specs Verified weight: 38 grams Frame material: G85 nylon plastic Lens material: Polycarbonate Pros Lifetime warranty Good value Excellent lens optics Tight temples for a very secure feel Cons Might be too tight for larger heads May not be enough venting in extreme conditions Seiji Ishii The Optic Nerve FixieMAX Photochromic ($149) surprised our cycling editor. Hes accustomed to photochromic cycling sunglasses costing much more — see the Smith Shift XL MAG above — but Optic Nerve served up a solid value with this model. Even though he has plenty of photochromic glasses, these perform well at half the price.

　　The FixieMAX Photochromic lenses quickly changed tint shade for road and gravel riding. From bright Texas summer sun to dusk, we could leave them on and never risk our eyes to dust, gravel from cars or other riders, or the thick swarms of summer bugs after the sun had set. The lens coverage area protected contact lens-shod eyes even in the thick summer dust of the worst drought in decades.

　　The fit was firm but comfortable for long stints in the saddle, while the frame was still rigid enough to lend confidence when bushwhacking while mountain biking. Rubber-coated temples and a rubber-coated adjustable nosepiece kept the Optic Nerve FixieMAX Photochromic in the right spot, even when the sweat was pouring and the gravel or trail was rough.

　　The only real potential negative was the close-to-the-face fit compared to others, which may cause fogging when riding slowly in super humid conditions. But again, the most surprising and pleasant thing was the reasonable price for photochromic lenses that do the job well.

　　Oakley Encoder Strike With Prizm Trail Torch Lenses Check Price at Competitive Cyclist$276 at Amazon

　　Specs Verified weight: 34 g Frame material: O Matter nylon Lens material: Plutonite polycarbonate Pros Excellent tint and optical clarity for challenging trail light conditions Excellent rigidity for style of frame Hydrophilic rubber on nose piece and ear stems had excellent adherence under heavy sweating Great venting Cons Some may prefer deeper lens coverage for more protection Most expensive cycling sunglass in this guide Seiji Ishii Sometimes, light conditions are extremely challenging for any sunglasses. Mountain bike riding under tree cover on a sunny day is an example. The lens tint has to be dark enough to reduce light transmission appropriately. But the lens must also let enough light through and provide adequate contrast to see trail obstacles in the shade. Photochromic lenses perform great on the roads when light conditions change through the day, but they dont necessarily adjust quickly enough for trail riding.

　　Enter the Oakley Encoder Strike with the Prizm Trail Torch lenses ($276). The Plutonium polycarbonate lens transmits 35% of the light, and the rose base tint was the perfect combination on bright summer days on singletrack when our cycling editor constantly went from full Texas summer sun to full shade. He didnt strain in the shade to see roots, rain ruts, and other obstacles that were almost the same color as the dirt. This is usually a struggle for him with darker tints. He also preferred the Prizm Trail Torch lenses when it was critical to see fine gravel and sand during gravel rides on hardpack.

　　Oakely Encoders are some of the best venting cycling sunglasses of the guide and easily handled super humid conditions. The sunglasses allowed noticeable airflow to the face during the brutally hot Texas summer. And for the totally rimless frame (the temples connect directly to the lens), the glasses were impressively rigid thanks to the thick ridge molded into the top of the lens, a real bonus when dodging tree branches at face level.

　　And lastly, the Unobtainium temple ear socks and nose piece provided amazing grip when the sweat was pouring. The nosepiece (Oakley includes two sizes) was particularly comfortable and grippy. The downside: the Oakely Encoder with Prizm Trail Torch lenses are of the most expensive models listed in the guide.

　　Oakley offers the Prizm Trail Torch lenses on other cycling glasses, and you can get the Encoder with a number of other lenses, including road, field, jade, sapphire, black, and 24k .

　　Shimano S-PHYRE Magnetic Check Price at Shimano

　　Specs Verified weight: 30 g Frame material: Grilamid TR90 polyamide Lens material: Grilamid TR polyamide Pros Magnets make for quick lens changes (2 are included) Excellent visual contrast in the Ridescape Road lens Cons Lens can pop off when opening or closing the frame Seiji Ishii For cyclists who prefer to change lens tints often rather than using photochromic lenses, there was no quicker or simpler way than with the Shimano S-PHYRE Magnetic ($220) cycling sunglasses. Shimano graced the frames and lenses with magnets, eliminating the often frustrating attempts to snap lenses in and out without smudging the lenses with dirty and sweaty hands. All it took with the S-PHYRE Magnetic was lifting and placing the lens on the frame by the edges, keeping them clean and clear.

　　Shimano offers several tints and includes a clear lens with every set. Our cycling editor tested the Ridescape Road lens and found the contrast among the best for road riding. It helped him pick out shards of glass and other hazards to tires on bright summer days at speed. The contrast also helped him spot loose bits of gravel in turns from far away, preventing unwanted surprises and sudden braking.

　　The lens coverage was adequate for all but the dustiest days on gravel, and balanced protection and venting. These vented well without any lens ports, as the spacing away from the face was on the generous side.

　　One negative of the incredibly easy lens-swapping feature is that the lens often detaches while folding the temples. A little bit of deliberate care was the cure.

　　Vinco Sola Check Price at Vinco Performance

　　Specs Verified weight: 30 g, size Large Frame material: Lignatura bio-resin Lens material: Polyamide Pros Expansive lens coverage area and field of view 2 sizes available Stainless steel lens mounting hardware Adjustable temples and spring loaded hinges 2-year warranty and refurbishing service available Cons Might not vent well enough in extreme conditions Feels heavier on the face than others Seiji Ishii Vinco touts its Sola ($249) as the worlds first renewable performance eyewear, and the list of attributes sure backs that claim. The frames are Lignatura, which is 98% sourced from Fir and Beechwood fiber, which are byproducts of paper production. The raw materials come from PEFC-certified forests in Finland with controlled reforestation practices. Finally, Vinco mixes in flax, jute, and sisal fibers into the bio-resin to gain specific properties.

　　The lenses are bolted to the frame with stainless steel screws. This eliminates the possibility of a snap-in lens mechanism wearing out over time. Vinco offers a 2-year warranty and a refurbishing service to keep the glasses in service and out of landfills. Finally, Vinco uses injection machines powered by a high ratio of hydroelectricity and tumbles the frames using recycled water.

　　The Vinco Sola has a wide wrap-around cylindrical lens, providing expansive coverage and field of view. They were among the best for protection from wind, dust, and errant branches. The Sola tint, which Vinco touts is best for the roads, delivers clear and relaxed vision even in the brightest Texas summer sun (the brand also offers a Terra tint designed for trails).

　　The Vinco Sola has spring-loaded hinges to prevent damage should the temples get torqued, and they adjust to provide a custom fit that can be as secure as desired. Vinco offers two sizes, a rarity in single cycling sunglasses models.

　　The downsides to these ultra-sustainable cycling sunglasses were that they had a heavier feeling fit than others, and the close fit might be prone to fogging in extremely humid conditions.

　　The Vinco Sola cycling sunglasses have extensive coverage; (photo/Simon Krenk) Cycling Sunglasses Comparison Chart

　　Our cycling editor, Seiji Ishii, has worn countless models of cycling sunglasses in his 4 decades of riding. He tested over 40 of them in the last year; (photo/Simon Krenk) Why You Should Trust Us Our cycling editor and head tester for this guide, Seiji Ishii, has been turning the pedals for 40 years. In that time, he has gone from wearing wireframe aviators to the best cycling sunglasses the industry has churned out. From the infamous Oakley Eyeshades to the current crop of highly technical cycling-specific eyewear, Ishii has spent countless hours and thousands of miles behind the lenses.

　　Ishii takes eye health and safety very seriously. Although not through cycling, he lost a portion of his vision in his left eye for 6 months. So, he understands how debilitating it is to lose even a small portion of vision. He also has a fat and protein deposit on one eye from cycling in the Texas sun as a teen without sunglasses. Ishii understandably doesnt turn a single pedal stroke without cycling sunglasses protecting his eyes.

　　If Ishii needs help testing the numerous cycling sunglasses on his plate, he elicits the services of lifelong cyclists hes known and trusted for decades. He is also friends with current and ex-World Tour team members and staffers and often asks them for equipment opinions and advice.

　　Cycling sunglasses protect you from wind, dust, errant branches, and gravel thrown up by tires; (photo/Simon Krenk) How We Tested Cycling Sunglasses Our team, led by cycling editor Seiji Ishii, logged thousands of miles while continuously testing every cycling sunglass they could obtain. Roads, gravel, trails, and bike parks were all testing grounds over the years. Some models excelled at certain venues, and a few performed well in all.

　　We compiled notes and mentally logged impressions on every aspect of the glasses listed in this guide. Protecting the eyes was at the top of the list of desired attributes. This meant shielding them from flying debris, branches, dust, and wind.

　　Comfort was a high priority, especially over long distances and hours. Security went hand in hand with comfort, as glasses that dont stay put cannot offer consistent protection. This was especially true in the hot summer months while mountain biking. Sweat and jarring motions made the cycling sunglasses job of staying in the correct position much harder. Finally, the glasses had to be compatible with helmet straps.

　　Most brands offer cycling sunglasses with a variety of lens tints. The best tint depends on a myriad of conditions. These range from weather, tree cover, time of day, type of terrain, speed of riding, and others. And much of it is a personal preference. Some glasses come with a tinted lens and a clear one. And finally, we tested a few photochromic lenses. We noted how lenses affected contrast, clarity, and color correctness when something stood out.

　　While the sunglasses in this guide could be plenty useful off the saddle, check out our guide to the Best Sunglasses for the Outdoors if youre looking for shades for more general use, or refer to our guides for running, fishing, and driving if youre looking for something more specific.

　　The Rōka Matador Air came out on top; (photo/Simon Krenk) Buyers Guide: How to Choose Cycling Sunglasses A legitimate question is, Do I need sunglasses that are specific to cycling? Yes, you do. Safety is the primary concern as you hurtle your eyeballs at speed through the air. Some things are annoying, like dust. But other things are potentially catastrophic, like stones thrown up by cars or bicycle tires. But there are other reasons to ride in cycling-specific sunglasses.

　　Why You Need Cycling Sunglasses Other outdoor-oriented sunglasses can block out harmful UV rays and a specific amount of light. But cycling sunglasses offer much better protection from wind and flying debris. The lenses are shatterproof, usually with more coverage area than other glasses. This helps them keep the riding-induced wind from drying eyes and contact lenses.

　　Cycling sunglasses must also be supremely comfortable, as cyclists routinely ride for several hours in demanding conditions. Its one thing to drive in an air-conditioned car for three hours. But quite another to toil away under a hot sun or relentless winds for the same duration. In addition to comfort, they must also be stable in these conditions. Brands work hard on materials that remain tacky on the skin during heavy sweating while providing the right feel to avoid irritation during long, bumpy stints in the saddle.

　　Cycling sunglass brands must also design glasses for the head down, eyes up point of view in some riding positions. The sunglass temples must also clear helmet straps.

　　And finally, especially on the road cycling side, riders can be very fashion-conscious. Combining good looks with the other required elements that make sunglasses functional in cycling can be tricky and difficult.

　　The Tifosi Rail Race is one of our favorite budget-friendly options; (photo/Simon Krenk) Best Cycling Sunglass Brands Of all the sunglass brands active in cycling, Oakley holds the top spot in terms of recognition and, many will argue, function. It was the first to offer a cycling-specific sunglass with the Oakley Factory Pilot Eyeshade. The sunglasses were huge for the time, with adjustable earstems, a sticky rubber nosepiece, and a sweat brow pad. They debuted at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Then, in 1986, Greg LeMond won the Tour de France in the Eyeshade and vaulted the brand into widespread acceptance in cycling.

　　Oakley has remained at the forefront of cycling, its models evolving with cyclings ever-advancing speeds, lower weights, and fashion. Oakley sponsors many of the highest-ranking and highest-profile cycling teams and athletes. This keeps the brand and cycling sunglasses models on constant display for discerning cyclists.

　　The Optic Nerve FixieMAX Photochromic is a solid value; (photo/Simon Krenk) Ishii has been riding and racing in Oakleys for decades, and its hard for him to find faults with most of the models hes worn for thousands of hours. But other brands inserted themselves in cycling as it exploded during the LeMond and Lance Armstrong eras of road racing. The consistent growth of mountain biking buoys the brands. And most recently, the quickly growing popularity of gravel biking has expanded the market.

　　Cycling brands that produce anything from garments and helmets to hard components have thrown their hand into the highly competitive market. And it seems every year, more brands join the cycling sunglasses fray. Brands also step in sideways from other sports like skiing or motorsports. They likely see the popularity of cycling expanding and dont want to miss the boat. Shimano, Sweet Protection, and KOO (a subsidiary of Kask) are examples of ancillary brands joining the cycling sunglasses market.

　　Lenses

　　High-quality lenses on cycling sunglasses can drastically improve vision to help you choose the line with traction; (photo/Simon Krenk) The most important part of any cycling sunglasses is the lens. This is what stops the potentially injurious object from reaching the eyes. Lenses must be shatterproof, and brands use polycarbonate, nylon, or a form of polyamide. The lenses must resist penetration by hard objects at high speed. They must also be reasonable in weight and provide enough optical clarity for high-speed pursuits.

　　Some brands certify their lenses as Optical Class 1, which is for work with particularly high vision requirements for permanent use. Ishii feels any reputable cycling sunglass brand adheres to this as a minimum level of performance.

　　Mineral glass may be used in other outdoor sunglasses and often provides superior optics. But they dont have a place in cycling as they are not shatterproof and are much heavier than polycarbonate, nylon, or polyamides.

　　Next, the lens must shield the eyes from harmful UV radiation and filter out enough light to be able to perform well in specific conditions and to reduce eye strain over long hours. According to the National Eye Institute, we should all look for lenses that provide 99 to 100 percent protection from UVA and UVB or marked as having a UV400 rating.

　　The KOO Demos sturdy construction is ideal for mountain biking; (photo/Simon Krenk) Choosing a lens that is appropriate for the light conditions is also very important. If youre riding in full sun on the road or on the desert, youll likely want to choose a darker tint with a lower visible light transmission (VLT). If youre riding under a heavy forest canopy, then perhaps a lighter color or tint with a higher VLT will serve you better. Many riders find it beneficial to have multiple pairs of cycling sunglasses or interchangeable lenses for use in varying light conditions.

　　A quick note on VLT. Most sunglass brands will list the percentage of visible light transmission or VLT with their lenses. This refers to the amount of visible light that passes through the lens to the eye. So, the lower the VLT percentage, the darker the lens, and vice versa. For super bright conditions with glare from the road or snow, we like to use a dark lens with a VLT between around 10 to 15%. For overcast days or riding in deep, dark forests, we prefer lenses with a higher VLT percentage in the neighborhood of 20 to 30% and find that colors like rose, amber, or yellow can be helpful in more challenging light conditions. If its really dim, we often opt for lenses that are clear or close to it. Dont like to change lenses? You can learn about self-adjusting photochromic lenses below.

　　A

　　As a final note on lenses, mirrored finishes are popular among the cycling crowd. They do contribute to the effects of the tint, often improving contrast, but most are more prone to scratching. Non-mirrored lenses will have a much longer scratch-free life. In both cases, one must be careful during cleaning as cycling sunglasses are not nearly as scratch-resistant as mineral glass.

　　Smiths new Chromapop Photochromic lens is the best self-adjusting lens weve tested to date; (photo/Seiji Ishii) Photochromic Lenses While the majority of lenses have a fixed tint and percentage of visible light transmission (VLT), photochromic lenses are those that adapt to ambient light conditions. The nice thing about photochromic lenses is that when the light conditions change, your lenses follow suit, so youve always got the appropriate tint. This is great if your sunny road ride turns overcast or vice versa or if you misjudged your pace and the timing of sunset.

　　It is important to note that photochromic lenses do change tint automatically, but it doesnt happen instantly. Most lenses take about 20 to 30 seconds to adapt to the ambient light. So, if you are moving quickly between bright sunlight and shadow, they will stay the same based roughly on the average brightness outside.

　　Ishii doesnt feel that most photochromic lenses change quickly enough for mountain biking in the woods. The instant transition from bright to dark asks too much from the current crop of photochromic lenses. The new Chromapop Photochromic lens from Smith Optics, however, has made him change his tune. He tested it recently with the Smith Shift XL Mag sunglasses and was thoroughly impressed.

　　It depends on the brand, but most offer photochromic lenses as an option alongside all of the various tints, colors, and reflective coatings they offer. Often, but not always, photochromic lenses cost a bit more than the standard lens options.

　　Frames for cycling sunglasses can be as minimal as temples mounted directly on frames, but a full frame is much more rigid to withstand impacts better; (photo/Simon Krenk) Frames The frames job is to keep the protective lens in the proper place, regardless of what is happening while cycling. This means staying put through the big drops of bike parks to hours of pouring sweat on summer road rides. Frames do this with a combination of frame size and rigidity, temple tension, ear stem adjustability or curvature, nosepiece fit, and tacky and often hydrophilic rubber on the nosepiece and ear stems.

　　First off, the frame must fit the face. The width is the primary dimension that affects fit. Wide faces must have matching wide frames, or the tension across the temples and ear stems could be uncomfortable. And vice versa: narrow faces require narrow frames, or there will be too little lateral tension. And the frames may not adjust far enough to provide a stable fit.

　　The width of the nose bridge is also a big consideration. If the nosepiece is too wide, the glasses will slide down. If the lens hits the cheekbones, sweat will accumulate. Also, fogging is more likely if the sunglasses slide down, putting much of the lens in closer proximity to the face. Luckily, many brands include different sizes or adjustable nose pieces.

　　Adjustable or spring-loaded temples can add to the tension and comfort across the temple. Adjustable ear stems add a lot of additional security. Finally, rubber-coated ear stems reduce sliding when the sweat rate is high.

　　The Sweet Protection Memento RIG Reflect lenses have excellent contrast, ideal for mountain biking in sun to shade; (photo/Simon Krenk) For mountain biking, in particular, frame rigidity can be a concern. The frames should be able to resist potential branches to the face without deforming so much that they lose their protective qualities.

　　Rimless and semi-rimless frames can be much less structurally stout than those with a full frame unless the rigidity is made up for in the lenses. Some super lightweight glasses have twisted on Ishiis face during contact with branches to the point of hitting his eyes.

　　Shape and Design

　　Wraparound lenses offer the most coverage for sensitive eyes; (photo/Simon Krenk) Cycling sunglasses shape and design are dominated by the need to protect the eyes from many angles and at speed. The lenses offer a larger coverage area than in other glasses, both in height and width. The lenses need to be deeper because the cyclist often looks down, and debris shot up by bicycle or car tires comes from this angle.

　　The lenses and frames also tend to be wider and can be a wrap-around style to better protect the eye during high speed or in cold, fierce headwinds. Wrap-around frames and lenses also protect better against errant branches on the sides of the trail.

　　The temples must clear the shells, straps, and fit adjustment harnesses on mountain bike helmets and road bike helmets, so they usually sit further away from the head than on other sunglasses, or they may have bends and kinks to route themselves around. The glasses can also sit further from the face and have vents in the lenses to prevent fogging during high-output efforts in cold and humid conditions.

　　The Smith Bobcats narrow frame makes it ideal for cyclists with smaller faces; (photo/Simon Krenk) Price Value Cycling sunglasses run the gamut as far as pricing. Some are less than $40, while others are $400. We found through the decades that you do get what you pay for. Paying more, to a point, almost always delivers higher-quality optics and a longer usable lifespan. Occasionally, Ishii will don a pair hes had since the 1990s. They cost more than his monthly rent in the same era. Eye protection was that important to him. Thankfully, you dont have to drain your bank account for quality eye protection, and there are great options at all price points.

　　Budget You can find super cheap shades on Amazon or at the gas station for $20 to $25, which will be better than nothing if thats all you can afford. At that price point, however, youre mostly going to find glasses that will scratch easily, probably have some minor distortion, and wont do much to enhance contrast or color. So, we recommend leveling up to something a bit higher quality like the models on this list from Tifosi.

　　For $80, both the Tifosi Moab and the Rail Race are a fraction of the price of some of the premium models. They are well made, provide good optical clarity, and they come with 3 lenses — or a Fototec photochromic lens — for use in varying light conditions. The contrast and color enhancement technology isnt quite on par with glasses from Smith, Oakley, or Roka, but youd be hard-pressed to notice the difference.

　　Beyond the wallet-friendly price, most people would be hard-pressed to tell the Tifosi Moab apart from more expensive sunglasses; (photo/Seiji Ishii) Mid-Tier If youre not willing to shell out the big bucks for the premium models, there are plenty of great moderately priced options between $100 and $200. In this price range, youre finding great coverage and clear optics, but you arent paying a premium for certain brand names or the more extensive research and development those brands have put into their lens technologies.

　　The Optic Nerve FixieMAX is a good example. Ranging from $100 for standard lenses up to $149 for the photochromic lens we tested, these shades provide excellent coverage and clear vision for less than the high-end competition. We found the photochromic lens to work quite well at half the price of the Smith Shift XL MAG. Likewise, the Sweet Protection Memento RIG ($130) provides a great shield for the eyes with great contrast that we found to work well for mixed lighting conditions while mountain biking. They happen to look pretty cool, too.

　　Premium To be sure, some of what youre paying for with the premium brands is the name and funding their marketing budgets, athletes, and event sponsorships. Youre also paying for more advanced lens enhancement technologies and the countless hours that have gone into making lenses that help you see in high definition.

　　Lets consider the most expensive option in this guide, the Smith Shift XL MAG, which retails for $305 with the Chromapop Photochromic lens we tested. Not only do these lenses adapt to changing light conditions, but the Chromapop technology really does work to enhance contrast and color, so you can see more detail. Plus, youll always be prepared and never need to change lenses.

　　Similarly, Oakley has been producing some of the highest-quality lenses available for decades. The brands Prizm lenses, like those in the Oakley Encoder Strike we tested, are outrageously good. Roka has also put lots of effort into making its lenses the best they possibly can be in models like the Matador Air. In this price range, its honestly like splitting hairs trying to differentiate between the optics of the premium options, and you really cant go wrong if youve got the money to spend.

　　Frequently Asked Questions What are the best sunglasses for cycling? The best sunglasses for cycling will protect the eyes from flying debris, dust, and wind while filtering out the appropriate amount of light and delivering enough contrast for the riding conditions. They will have a secure enough fit to maintain their protective position while mountain biking in rough terrain but remain comfortable enough for long hours in the saddle. The best cycling sunglasses are also durable. They are able to take a hit from an errant branch and still secure lenses after hundreds of lens swaps.

　　What is special about cycling sunglasses? Cycling sunglasses must have a larger lens coverage area to protect the eyes from wind generated by riding and the weather. They must also offer extended protection compared to other sunglasses against debris thrown up by a bike or car tire in front of the rider or a branch on the side of the trail. The lenses must be shatterproof, and the frames must withstand the aforementioned impacts.

　　The cycling sunglasses must stay put regardless of terrain ridden or the amount of sweat pouring off the head. Finally, the sunglasses must clear fog on cold and humid days and be compatible with helmet retention straps.

　　What cycling sunglasses do the pros wear? The cycling sunglasses that a professional cyclist wears are usually mandated by team or individual sponsor obligations.

　　The Rudy Project Kelion is a great choice for cyclists with larger faces; (photo/Simon Krenk)

　　The Best Road Bike Helmets of 2024 We tested 16 models from top brands, including Giro, Specialized, Lazer, and more, to find the best road bike helmets.

　　The Best Mountain Bike Helmets of 2024 Our experts put the best mountain bike helmets of 2024 to the test. Whether you need a budget pick or overall winner, weve got you covered.