Glasses Guide

Many riders choose to ride wearing glasses, not just to look cool, but to help protect eyes from insects and other things which can irritate or cause damage to the eye. 80% of all information received by the brain is taken in through the eye, so they need looking after and treating with care. Glasses also vastly reduce effects of airborne allergens which can trigger eye watering too - so you can save your tears and use them as sweat.

Parts of Glasses

Lenses

The lenses are the most important part of the glasses and are the main focus for glasses manufacturers. As well as providing excellent optics, lenses need to be safe when damaged in accidents and robust enough to take the occasional clumsy drop. Some of the most cost effective options can come with interchangeable lenses. Changeable lenses are great for riding in all light conditions and even night time riding. Most cycling glasses with interchangeable lenses come with three lens options.

Standard shaded lens with 100% UV Protection, these are great for dimming bright conditions in summer.

Yellow tinted lens is ideal for overcast conditions, brightening up grey flat light, adding contrast and a little lightness to your vision.

Clear Lenses are ideal for dark, wet or night-time riding.

One piece lenses offer the best protection from both weather conditions and from all the other stuff which could otherwise end up in our eyes.

Anti-Fog coating or small slits in the lens can reduce steaming / fogging on the lenses, this can be an issue when you slow or stop riding and airflow is reduced.

Anti-Scratch coating is great for those little clumsy accidents, preventing little chips and scratches on lenses. The best anti-scratch coating can improve the longevity of your glasses.

Arms & Frames

As well as being lightweight, flexible and strong, the frames need to fit well. It is important that the glasses stay in place when looking down or moving your head. A good fitting pair of glasses will feel like you are not even wearing them, but also stay fitted snugly in place at all times.

Contact Points

Most glasses come with side grippers on the arms to hold them in place, even when looking down or over the shoulder. Nose grips also help hold the frames in place and stop glasses creeping down your nose for the old librarian look.

Extra Considerations

Make sure your new glasses will fully fit you and your clothing, before you buy - consider;

Face shape

Helmet

Clothing