Standard Lens

Standard lenses are a common option. They can be a simple choice with wide appeal. They tend to have a light transmission rate anywhere between 15% and 30%. This means that they are effective at dimming light to a level that is comfortable. They usually come in a range of colors and styles, so you can choose what works best for you.

Photochromic Lens

A photochromic lens can be great for those that are seeking multiple options in one. A photochromic lens will change color to suit different levels of lighting, which means it can adapt to suit changing situations. The can be beneficial, as it means you won’t have to worry about having different glasses, or lenses on hand.

Polarized Lens

Polarized lenses can be a great option for those who are looking to reduce glare while they are riding. This can be especially helpful for those riding in cities or spaces where they will be exposed to lots of lights. They can also help block distracting reflections on the road, which can not only make it easier to see but also easier to navigate, as well.

Yellow or Orange Lens

Yellow or orange lenses can be especially beneficial during evening riding. In low-light conditions, they can help brighten up your surroundings. This can help you to see dim areas more clearly, and avoid potential accidents.

Clear or Non-Tinted Lens

A clear or non-tinted lens can be a great option for those who ride frequently at night, or in dark or dim conditions. A clear lens can protect your eyes from wind and debris, without affecting your eyesight, or making it otherwise difficult to see.

Grip

Grip is another kind of technology you need to keep in mind when you are selecting prescription cycling glasses for your ride. It is important for your glasses to fit well if you want to be able to ride without worrying about them falling off. However, you also do not want them to be so tight that they are distracting or uncomfortable. Ideally, a quality pair of glasses will come with grips at both the temples and on the nose. Having grips in both of these places helps to even out the overall grip on your face, and ensure that your glasses rest on your face the right way.

Weight

Many cyclists may not think much about the weight of their Cycling Glasses. That said, the weight of your glasses can have a noticeable impact on how comfortable they are to wear. Most cycling glasses are lightweight and for good reason. If your glasses are heavy, they can significantly impact your comfort levels while riding. Not only that, but they can also be distracting, especially since heavier frames are more likely to slip and fall when on your face. Lightweight glasses will allow you more freedom, which can be especially important if you are riding on difficult terrain.

Coverage and Fit

When doing any type of outdoor activity, it is important to consider the fit of your glasses. Cycling is no exception. When cycling, you will most likely be moving at fast speeds and could have debris like dirt and small rocks flying towards your face, depending on the kind of terrain that you will be cycling in. In addition to that, you are also likely to have the wind blowing in your face. Because of all this, choosing a wrap-around style of cycling glasses can be a good idea. Wrap-around glasses will ensure that your eyes are protected from debris and harsh winds that could dry out your eyes. They are also more likely to stay securely on your face, which can be important when you are jostling around.

Full or Half Frame

Whether you will opt for a full or half frame is another important consideration. Full frame glasses and half frame glasses can both have their benefits, and which will work the best for you often depends on what your needs are while cycling. Full frame glasses may feel more sturdy and protective. However, a full frame may result in a slightly heavier pair of glasses and can restrict your field of vision slightly. Half frame glasses, on the other hand, are glasses where the frame does not wrap fully around the whole lens, but instead just the top half. These glasses are often lighter and restrict your field of vision less.

Lens Material

Learning about different kinds of lens materials can be helpful if you want to make sure that you get a quality lens that suits your needs. Additionally, it can also help you learn what types of lenses to avoid. For example, many may think that glass lenses are ideal. While this can be true for a standard pair of reading glasses, glass is not an ideal material for cycling glasses. Not only is glass heavy, but it poses more risks if it breaks.

Because of this, many opt for different materials when choosing their glasses for cycling. A common material used for lenses is polycarbonate, and Trivex is yet another. Both of these materials are lightweight and durable which means increased comfort and protection.

Contrast Enhancement

While thinking about the types of material you want your prescription cycling glasses to be made out of, you also need to think about the contrast level that will work for you. Glasses can have a wide range of contrast, going from very dark to very light. Some may prefer lenses that are on the darker side, as these may offer more protection from the sun.

While dark lenses can keep out sunlight better, they may obscure some of the obstacles on the road, and even make certain weather conditions more hazardous. While lighter glasses may let in more light overall, they can help you to be more alert to accidents and obstacles, as well as changing weather conditions.

Transitions Lenses

Transitions lenses can be a great option for those that want one pair of prescription cycling glasses that can adapt to changing situations. A transitional lens can grow darker when it is brighter outside and then lighten again once it grows darker again. This can be helpful for those that intend to cycle for long periods of time, or in changing terrain. It can also be a great way for you to get the feel of different lenses without having to change them.

Interchangeable Lens

An interchangeable lens is another great option for those who need different types of lenses. With interchangeable lenses, you can have a wide range of options, as long as you do not mind quickly changing out lenses when you need to. This can be helpful for those who regularly cycle in different conditions or at different times during the day.

UV Protection

When cycling, you are spending time outside, possibly in a variety of weather conditions. No matter what, you will be exposed to some sunlight. For this reason, it can be beneficial to make sure that your eyes are protected from the sun. Sun protection for your eyes can be important even if you are cycling in overcast conditions, or in shady areas. UV protection can also be particularly important for those who cycle for extended periods of time.

Prescription Lenses

Considering getting prescription lenses is also important. If you already wear glasses, making sure that your cycling glasses have frames that can accommodate your prescription inserts can help you to be more comfortable as you ride. For those that wear contacts, having prescription lenses may not be as important. However, it can still be helpful to own a pair of inserts for cycling as a backup, or for times when you do not feel like wearing contacts. If you wear glasses full time and prescription lenses will be necessary for you to ride comfortably, then make sure to consider this when selecting frames, since not all frames will be able to fit an Rx insert in them.

Shock Proof

Getting shockproof glasses can make a significant difference in the quality of your rides, especially if you spend a lot of time on rocky or otherwise treacherous terrain. A quality pair of shockproof glasses can fit your face and handle lots of jostling and movement. This means that it will be easier for you to see and navigate, no matter what you encounter on your path.

Air Vents

Air vents are an important feature to look for on the best cycling glasses especially if you ride for extended periods of time or in hot climates. Air vents allow heat and steam that build up between your face and lenses to release. This is important for a couple of different reasons.

When sweat and steam build-up, it can lead to fogging, which can obscure your view and lead to hazardous riding conditions. Another reason that air vents are important is that any steam build-up or dampness around your eyes can cause discomfort, and lead to your glasses slipping around on your face. Micro vents along your frames can ventilate your glasses and allow you to focus on riding instead of dealing with steam build-up.

Anti-Fogging

Another way to combat fogging is to seek out glasses with anti-fogging technology. An anti-fog coating on your lens can mean less worry about your vision being obscured by conditions that cause fogginess from external forces. However, it is important to keep in mind that not all glasses offer this and that some lens materials may not be compatible with anti-fog coating. Doing your research and considering what features are the most important to you is beneficial when shopping for biking glasses.

Anti-Scratch or Shatterproof

Anti-scratch or shatterproof glasses can be beneficial for safety. Small flying rocks and dirt can scratch your glasses and make it more difficult to see. Larger debris or an accident can lead to your glasses shattering. Not only does this cause you to lose a pair of glasses, but it can also increase your risk of developing an eye injury, or another injury to your face. Shatterproof frames mean that your safety is at the forefront, even if you have been in an accident.

Adjustability

Adjustability is key if you want to have the best cycling glasses and the best fit. Not only are adjustable glasses more likely to have a custom fit to your face, but they are also less likely to fall off of your face. This can help provide comfort, as well as improve your overall safety.