When you’re biking, being able to clearly see what’s ahead of you is crucial to your safety — and enjoyment. Glare from the sun can make that difficult, though, which is why you need a good pair of cycling sunglasses when you go for a ride.
Cycling sunglasses don’t just protect your eyes from the sun, though. They can also keep dirt and other debris out of your eyes when you’re biking. They’re usually designed to be more durable than traditional sunglasses, too, so they won’t shatter if they fall off during your ride.
Learn how to choose the right pair of cycling sunglasses for your next biking trip. This top pair from Torege has been a customer favorite for years because they feature impact-resistant frames with a rubber nose pad for greater comfort.
What to know before you buy cycling sunglasses
Road wear vs. mountain bike
The first question to ask yourself when shopping for cycling sunglasses is whether you want road wear or mountain bike sunglasses.
Road wear sunglasses are designed for both road and off-road biking. They usually feature rimless frames to give you a clear view of your surroundings.
Mountain bike sunglasses are designed to not only block the sun but keep dirt and debris out of your eyes too. They usually have a goggle design, so it’s important to make sure that the pair you choose is compatible with your helmet.
Frame materials and design
The best cycling sunglasses are lightweight, so they’re comfortable enough to wear on long rides. However, they should also be durable enough to hold up to the rigors of biking. Frames made of sturdy, high-performance materials like nylon are usually an excellent option. Polycarbonate frames are an even better choice, though, because they’re shatterproof. You can also find some cycling glasses with titanium frames, which are highly durable but still lightweight.
While the majority of cycling sunglasses have solid frames, some pairs offer a semi-frameless design with the lens attached only at the top and bottom of the frame. As a result, they provide an unobstructed view of the road and your surroundings, which some cyclists prefer. Semi-frameless sunglasses also offer better ventilation, so your glasses won’t fog up as quickly.
It’s also important to consider how your cycling sunglasses’ frames fit with your helmet. Under a helmet, you’re usually better off wearing frames with a straight temple design. Frames with an arced temple design may not fit as comfortably under a helmet.
Lens materials
Cycling sunglasses should never have glass lenses. They’re heavier than other types of lenses and can shatter very easily, which lessens their durability and can even pose a danger to your eyes.
Instead, opt for cycling glasses with Trivex or polycarbonate lenses. These materials are lightweight and thin, so they’re more comfortable to wear. They’re also impact-resistant and provide effective protection from UV rays.
Cycling sunglass features
Anti-fog coating
When you’re biking in rainy, cold or humid conditions, your sunglasses are prone to fogging up. However, you can find some pairs with a coating to prevent fogging, so you can still see clearly no matter the weather.
In addition to an anti-fog coating, you may want to look for cycling sunglasses with special venting to help clear fog if it develops.
UV protection
While cycling sunglasses feature tinted lenses to protect against the glare from the sun, you also want a pair with lenses that feature UV protection. These lenses protect your eyes against the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays.
Photochromic
If you’re willing to pay a little more, you can find cycling sunglasses that feature photochromic or transition lenses. They automatically darken or lighten depending on the lighting conditions, so you can keep riding without issue, even if the sky suddenly becomes sunny or overcast during your trip.
Interchangeable
Some cyclists have a difficult time adjusting to photochromic lenses, so a pair that features interchangeable lenses may be a better option. They come with lenses in different tints, so you can change them based on the lighting when you go for a ride.
Polarized
If you struggle with the sun’s glare while biking, wearing sunglasses with polarized lenses can help. They cut down on the glare to keep you from squinting too much. Cycling sunglasses with polarized lenses typically cost more, though.
Cycling sunglass cost
You’ll generally pay $10-$230 for a pair of cycling sunglasses. Basic pairs with plastic frames and lenses usually cost $10-$25, but you can find highly durable cycling sunglasses with nylon or polycarbonate frames and special lens features for $25-$75. The most durable, feature-packed pairs can cost as much as $230, though.
Cycling sunglass FAQ
Do I really need special sunglasses for cycling?
A. You can wear your regular sunglasses when cycling, but you may find that they’re too heavy to be comfortable for long rides. They often aren’t as durable either, so you may be more worried about possible damage when riding in them.
Can I find prescription cycling sunglasses?
A. Prescription cycling sunglasses are available, which can make it much easier to see clearly when riding if you wear eyeglasses. You’ll need to go to an optometrist to get them, though, and they tend to be more expensive than basic cycling sunglasses.
Which cycling sunglasses should I get?
Best of the best cycling sunglasses
Torege Polarized Sports Sunglasses: available at Amazon
Our take: An extremely lightweight pair of sunglasses that are comfortable for long rides and can withstand daily cycling trips without breaking down.
What we like: Feature durable, impact-resistant polycarbonate frames. Come with three interchangeable polarized, scratch-resistant lenses. Rimless frame design allows for an unobstructed view. A rubber nose pad makes them more comfortable to wear too.
What we dislike: Can be difficult to learn how to change lenses.
Best bang for your buck cycling sunglasses
BangLong Polarized Sports Sunglasses: available at Amazon
Our take: Despite the affordable price, these sunglasses feature highly durable frames and versatile interchangeable lenses, making them an excellent value.
What we like: Include five polarized lenses. Feature lightweight plastic frames that are comfortable and impact-resistant. Comes with a convenient cleaning cloth and carrying case.
What we dislike: The lenses can sometimes fog up.
Honorable mention cycling sunglasses
SUNGAIT Lightweight Sports Sunglasses: available at Amazon
Our take: Boasting an affordable price tag and a sturdy, lightweight design, these are an excellent pair of starter cycling sunglasses.
What we like: Feature sturdy but lightweight frames. Have polarized frames that completely block UVA and UVB rays. Provide impact and temperature resistance. Come in two different frame designs.
What we dislike: Don’t come with interchangeable lenses.
Jennifer Blair is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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