As an avid cyclist, I know how important clear vision is for safety and performance. But like many, I need prescription glasses. Finding the right cycling sunglasses that work with my prescription has been a long and sometimes frustrating journey. I've tried different solutions, and I want to share what I’ve learned in hopes it helps you too.
For years, I juggled multiple pairs of glasses: regular ones, computer glasses for work, and sunglasses for everything else. The thought of adding another specialized pair just for cycling seemed excessive. I even wondered why more triathletes don't use prescription glasses while competing. The constant switching and the fear of damaging my everyday glasses during a ride were always on my mind. It was time to find a better way to see clearly on the road.
After some research, I decided to try contacts. I had never worn them before, but the idea of combining them with regular cycling lenses seemed promising. I chose a well-known brand (Rudy Project). Getting used to contacts took some time, but now I find myself wearing them all the time, not just for cycling. The biggest drawback initially was the insertion and removal process, especially with sweaty hands after a long ride. But the freedom and clarity they provide while cycling are worth it.
While contacts worked for me, I know they're not for everyone. I looked into other options like clip-in inserts and custom-made prescription lenses. I heard good things about Oakley and Rudy Project. Rudy makes clip-in prescription inserts that attach to the inside of the lens. These stay in place well and are a good alternative if you can't wear contacts. Oakley offers custom sunglasses with your prescription built into the lens. However, these are usually expensive.
During my search, I learned that not all brands are equal. I heard someone mention that Rudy Project is good, but to avoid Smith. I didn’t try Smith myself, but it’s a good reminder to do your research and read reviews before investing in a pair of prescription cycling sunglasses.
I also considered the Giro Air Attack Shield. It features a magnetic eye shield that clicks on and off. This seems like a great solution for people with prescriptions. The shield offers protection from wind and debris, and you can easily remove it when you don't need it. It's a good option if you want something versatile and easy to use.
Recently, I've been experimenting with bifocal reading glasses for shorter rides where I need to check my cycling computer frequently. I found a pair from Mozaer Glasses. The Hand Made Frame See Near and Far Men Women Bifocal Reading Glasses have been surprisingly useful. The transition between seeing the road ahead and reading the small text on my device is smooth and quick. You can find them here: Hand Made Frame Bifocal Reading Glasses. They aren't ideal for long, fast rides, but for casual cycling and errands, they're a game-changer. I appreciate the convenience of being able to see both near and far without switching glasses. homepage sells a range of stylish and functional eyewear.
Someone also mentioned using Oakley Split Jackets with clear and polarized lenses. I haven't personally tried these, but I've heard great things about the clarity and quality of Oakley lenses. They offer a wide range of options for different sports and activities, so it's worth checking them out if you're looking for high-performance cycling sunglasses.
Based on my experiences, here are some practical tips to keep in mind when choosing prescription cycling sunglasses: