Choose the Best Sunglasses for Cycling

If you’re serious about riding your bike, whether for fitness, competition, or as a commuter, you know it takes a wide range of specialized gear to keep yourself mobile, streamlined, and protected from the elements. And you know that cycling is tough on your legs—but it’s also tough on your eyes. In addition to bright sun and UV rays, there’s wind to contend with. Also, as you pick up speed, you can also get bugs, gravel, or even birds flying at your face at terrific velocities. When you ride, your face is your windshield, so cycling sunglasses should be invested in wisely, with special considerations as to fit and function that you might not consider for your beach shades.

Here are a few factors to consider when buying your sunglasses for cycling, along with recommendations for designers and models to try.

Fit: Cycling sunglasses should sit snugly on your skull even when you’re wearing your helmet, and the lenses should block out the light on all sides. When trying sunglasses on, tuck your chin down as you would for an aero-tuck. Are your eyes still protected by the lenses? If not, you will need a bigger pair of lenses. Also consider the bottom edge of the lens: if it rubs against your face, you could suffer chafing towards the end of a long ride. Wraparound profile shades are best. Choose any of the following Nike sunglasses for a decent fit designed for cycling: Nike EVO 174, Nike EVO 189, Nike EVO 230, or 253.

Safety: Accidents happen. If you crash, or if a huge piece of gravel comes at your face at 50 mph, you do not want to be wearing lenses that shatter. Polycarbonate lenses are strong and durable, and will not endanger your eye should the lens be struck. Oakley was one of the first companies to sponsor Lance Armstrong—in fact, they offered him health coverage during his sickness—so they know what cyclists need. Try the popular Oakley M-Frames, Livestrongs, or Flak Jackets for stylish, safe cycling sunglasses.

Vision: In addition to wanting sunglasses that can be fitted with prescription lenses, cyclists will want sunglasses designed to maintain clear vision in other respects. Lenses that are anti-fog will prevent your lenses clouding up on a misty day (or when you’re particularly sweaty). Polarized lenses block out UV rays while eliminating glare, and lenses and frames that block out as much airflow as possible prevent your eyes from being stung by the wind. In addition to Nike and Oakley sunglasses, you can try the Maui Jim 402s or the TAG Heuer 5101s, which offer a light- and wind-blocking wraparound profile that can be fitted with customizable lenses.

Cycling sunglasses are performance equipment. Choose a quality designer with care, and you will have an investment in safety and protection that is probably only second to your helmet.