Best Cycling Sunglasses — Top 15 Models to Consider for Style & Comfort
Sunglasses are an essential cycling accessory that makes riding safer and more enjoyable because, let’s face it, nobody likes squinting for their whole ride.
The best cycling sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun and debris, provide good visibility across varied light and weather conditions, and make you look great at the same time.
Like most cycling products, there is a massive variety of products that use slightly different technologies, materials, and designs.
To help you navigate this seemingly endless selection of products, we’ve put together this list of the 15 best sunglasses for cycling, followed by a short guide on what to look for when you’re choosing.
Best Cycling Sunglasses
Tifosi Rail Sunglasses
The Rail Tifosi cycling sunglasses are among the best value pairs on the market. At just $79.95, these glasses are half the price of others with similar technology.
The frame uses lightweight and flexible Grilamid TR-90 nylon. This material is quite durable, but the frameless design gives the glasses a less robust feel.
The standout feature of the Rail sunglasses is the polycarbonate scratch-resistant and shatterproof lenses. In addition, two of the three Rail options come with three pairs of interchangeable lenses for different conditions.
These glasses also utilize Tifosi’s Clarion technology and glare guard coatings to reduce eye strain and repel water and sweat. Finally, the Rails come with adjustable hinges and non-slip rubber for the perfect, stable fit.
100% Speedcraft XS Sunglasses
100%’s Speedcraft XS men’s cycling sunglasses are one of the brand’s two most popular models, along with the S2.
The wide, high-definition HiPER lenses are made to be scratch-resistant and are treated with hydrophobic and oleophobic finishes, keeping them clear when riding in wet weather.
In addition, these glasses are available in a contrast-enhancing HiPER lens design. Another feature of the Speedcraft XS Sunglasses is the ventilation which significantly reduces fogging thanks to the improved airflow. Finally, the super-grippy nose piece means they stay firmly in place, making them one of the best cycling sunglasses you can get.
Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep Prizm Sunglasses
Oakley’s Sutro line of cycling-specific sunglasses is one of the most coveted on the market. Style, performance, and comfort combine to make the Sutro Lite Sweep.
The Sutro Light utilizes a semi-frameless, high-wrap design that adds to the style and increases the field of view. In addition, the frame uses proprietary O-Matter durable nylon.
The Prizm lenses are the highlight of these Oakley cycling sunglasses. They offer an exceptionally crisp level of detail and perform well in various light conditions. Additionally, you can choose from five designs.
The main issue with the Sutro Lite Sweep glasses is they are not very stable on your face when riding on bumpy surfaces, so they might not be the best choice if you’re a fan of gravel bikes.
X-Tiger Polarized Sports Sunglasses
The X-Tiger multi-sport sunglasses are one of the best low-price options. There are 12 unique designs, each with five interchangeable lenses to suit different conditions.
The lens options include a UV400 Revo, polarized, night vision, mirror, and transparent lens. Despite the low price, these glasses weigh an impressive 19.2 grams, one of the lightest on the market.
The frame is made with stress-resistant TR90 plastic and features changeable feet to fit a wide range of riders. Unfortunately, however, they don’t have an adjustable nose clip, but they are still one of the best cycling sunglasses considering the price.
Oakley Radar EV Path Sunglasses
The Radar EV Paths are arguably the best sunglasses for cycling on this list, although the price is a little eye-watering.
Thanks to the Prizm lenses, these sunglasses offer an unbeatably clear and detailed picture, with an extended view (EV) to ensure you see everything on the road or trail. Additionally, this single set of lenses is versatile enough to work in almost all conditions throughout the year, including for winter riding.
Like most Oakley cycling sunglasses, they use the durable O-Matter frame material and a non-slip nose pad. This nose pad and the grippy temple arms ensure the Radar glasses are comfortable and snug. The one issue with these glasses is that the distinct style won’t be for everyone.
POC Devour Clarity Sunglasses
The Devour Clarity sunglasses by POC are one of the best cycling sunglasses on the market judging by the price, but they back up the price with premium features.
These POC cycling sunglasses offer goggle-like coverage to ensure nothing gets through. In addition, the Clarity lenses provide a vibrant and clear view in varied light conditions.
The lenses are treated with Ri-Pel hydrophobic and oleophobic protection to stop any water or dirt from accumulating on them while you ride. In addition, they are highly scratch-resistant.
Finally, the Devour Clarity glasses have adjustable temples and an adjustable nose piece, allowing all users to find the perfect fit. Unfortunately, these glasses are slightly more expensive than the equivalent competition.
100% Hudson Cycling Sunglasses
The Hudson sunglasses by 100% are one of the best dual-purpose sets you will find.
These glasses work perfectly for cycling and day-to-day use, thanks to their stylish design. The only downside is the coverage and view aren’t ideal as they aren’t cycling-specific.
The Hudson glasses use an oil and water-repellent lens to ensure high-quality vision and the Ultra-grip rubber nose pads to ensure they stay in place during exercise
The frame uses a six-base design, curvature, temple tips, and nose pads for a personalized fit. Finally, these glasses are available in Peakpolar or HiPER Lenses.
Suncloud Polarized Optics Milestone Polarized Sunglasses
The Suncloud Milestone sunglasses are another excellent dual-purpose option. They function well for sports like cycling and provide a stylish look off the bike.
The frames are built with Suncloud’s proprietary bio-based Evolve material to reduce the amount of petroleum used in sunglass manufacturing. In addition, they use a hydrophilic Megol rubber nose pad to repel moisture and keep them firmly in place.
The lenses are polarized to reduce glare and eye strain. In addition, they are scratch and impact-resistant. Finally, the wide lens curvature provides excellent side coverage and view to keep you and your eyes safe while riding. They’re the best cycling sunglasses for anyone who wants a more casual look.
RIVBOS Sunglasses for Men & Women
Tifosi Crit Fototec Photochromic Sunglasses
The Crit Fototec Tifosi cycling sunglasses are another superb sub-$100 product. They are multisport-ready but function well in cycling thanks to the aerodynamic design and the comprehensive coverage and view.
The TR90 nylon frame is light, impact-resistant, and flexible. In addition, the arms and the nose piece on the Crit sunglasses are fully adjustable so that you can find a personalized fit.
These glasses have hydrophilic rubber and lots of ventilation to maximize performance and reduce fogging during intense exercise.
The lenses are made with shatterproof polycarbonate with a photochromic finish, meaning they adjust automatically based on the level of light outside. That said, some users have been disappointed with the performance of the lenses in low light, so they might not be the best choice for nighttime riding.
Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Sunglasses
Oakley’s Flak 2.0 XL sunglasses are another frameless choice that benefits from enhanced coverage.
The lenses use Oakley’s high-definition Prizm optics to ensure excellent clarity in a broad range of light conditions with 100% UV protection and polarization to filter glare.
The Flak 2.0 frame is super comfortable and fits medium to large faces. It uses Unobtanium rubber on the nose piece and temples to ensure they stay in place during intense exercise.
In addition, they have a robust and long-lasting feel despite being ‘frameless,’ making them the best cycling sunglasses for riders looking for a modern look and comfortable fit.
Julbo Fury Spectron 3 Sunglasses
Jury’s Spectron 3 cycling sunglasses are a mid-range pair with a full-frame design and excellent coverage.
The wide lenses offer excellent protection from bugs and rain, and they have integrated ventilation that prevents fogging through increased airflow. Comfort and security are provided by the grippy and shock-absorbent nose and temple pads.
The lenses themselves are single-pane polycarbonate, which delivers respectable performance across diverse light conditions. In addition, they use color flash mirroring to filter unwanted colors.
ROCKBROS Polarized Sunglasses for Men & Women
Rockbros’ polarized men’s and women’s cycling sunglasses are the cheapest on this list. Still, they are an excellent cycling-specific offering if you’re on a tight budget and the best cycling sunglasses for women under $20.
Notable features of these glasses include the 100% UV400 protection, polarized lenses to reduce glare, and the removable myopia frames so those with impaired vision can ride safely. However, some user reviews mention that the sunglasses are poor in low light.
The Rockbros polarized cycling sunglasses also have an anti-slip rubber nose pad and temple legs to ensure they stay secure during vigorous exercise. Finally, the lenses are treated with a hydrophobic finish and oil resistance to help them stay clear through all conditions.
Oakley Gibston Sunglasses
Oakley’s Gibston sunglasses are a versatile choice, perfect for sports or everyday use. They benefit from some of this high-end brand’s best technology to deliver excellent performance.
The polycarbonate Prizm lenses are the standout feature of the Gibston glasses, with enhanced color and contrast optics.
Like most Oakley products, the frame is lightweight, flexible, and durable O-Matter nylon material. Unfortunately, these sunglasses don’t have an adjustable fit and may become slippy during vigorous exercise.
Native Eyewear’s El Jefe sunglasses are a unique product designed for use in sports and day-to-day activities.
These glasses feature a unique N3 polarized lens that filters four times more infrared (40%) than regular polarized lenses, ensuring excellent vision on even the brightest days and providing 100% UV protection.
The frames are super comfortable thanks to the soft Cushinol touchpoints. These touchpoints include the adjustable nose and temples that are also non-slip to ensure they stay in place when you’re active.
Best Cycling Sunglasses: What to Look Out For
Frame
Frames play a significant role in the style of sunglasses, with large-frame, wide-lens sunglasses currently in fashion. Larger frames and lenses provide better coverage and protection for your eyes, while a ‘frameless’ design further boosts the field of view.
Your style choice is individual, but it’s essential to select snug, comfortable, and adjustable frames (if possible). These characteristics mean they will stay in place during intense exercise.
The materials in the best cycle sunglasses should bend without breaking, be durable, and resist impacts like being dropped. Plastics such as Oakley’s O-Matter and Grilamid TR-90 have these properties.
Lenses
Lenses are the most important part of sunglasses, helping protect your eyes and enhancing vision on bright days. Larger lenses are great for cycling because they stop anything from getting into your eyes and allow a broad, unobstructed field of view.
The best lenses function well across all light conditions. One of the technologies that do this is photochromatic lens material which adjusts based on available light to let more or less through. The alternative here is to have interchangeable lenses for different ride conditions.
Polarized and mirrored lenses are also helpful technologies that reduce glare on very bright days, but they can be detrimental in low-light conditions. Another essential characteristic is UV protection, as eyes are susceptible to long-term damage from sun exposure. This protection standard is required for any regulated sunglasses on the market (knock-off models may not have it).
Finally, the best lenses are finished with scratch-resistance and hydrophilic treatments to prevent minor scratches, the build-up of moisture, and fogging during exercise.
Nose Bridge and Temple Arms
The material used for the nose bridge and temple arms is significant as it, along with fit, will ensure the glasses are comfortable and stay in place when you’re moving.
The best glasses have an adjustable nose piece and temple arms so you can personalize them to the shape of your face. Alternatively, some brands offer replacement nose pieces instead of adjustable ones.
Another helpful feature of the best sunglasses for cycling and running is hydrophilic rubber that stops them from sliding around while wet and is comfortable to wear.
Prescription Cycling Sunglasses
The final consideration for many riders is whether or not a specific product is compatible with prescription lenses. Thankfully, most brands allow their standard lenses to swap with a prescription set, which you can often purchase through your optician or the brand’s website.
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Adjustable nose piece and temple arms design will make you feel comfortable. A pair of high quality polarized cycling sunglasses is great.