Why Are Cycling Glasses So Expensive? 6 Benefits Over Regular Ones

Why are cycling glasses so expensive? Read on to discover how they surpass regular glasses in UV protection, eye protection, fitting, materials, and more.

Introduction

Why are cycling glasses so expensive? That is a common question among cycling enthusiasts.

There was a time when cycling eyewear wasn't a thing. However, they have become important gears for cyclists and those interested in this sport. Their rather high prices reflex their benefits.

If you are wondering the same thing, read on to find out how these glasses are so much more than just the look.

Why Are Cycling Glasses So Expensive_ Because cyclists need specialized eyewear.

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Why Are Cycling Glasses So Expensive?

What Is Special About Cycling Glasses?

Full Eye Protection

The frames and lenses of cycling glasses feature a wraparound design. This helps them seal tightly around your eyes and offers full protection.

To compare, a regular pair of glasses is not designed the same way but rather leaves big gaps between your face and the frame. It means dust, debris, and wind can easily get to your eyes.

UV Protection

UV protection is a standard requirement that most riding eyewear meets, thanks to protective coatings that prevent UV light from hurting your eyes. On the other hand, if eye lenses are made of NXT and polycarbonate, they take in UV rays by nature.

Quality products can give you 100% protection.

Lens grade indicates the darkness level.

Lens Grade

Lens grade refers to the level of darkness of eye lenses, which is indicated on a 0-5 scale. Grade 0 means clear lenses, while grade 5 means the darkest.

Lenses grade from 2 to 3.5 assist your vision during the day while going biking in low light conditions requires a grade of 0.5 or so.

Lens Quality

Unlike regular glasses, riding counterparts have to follow stricter quality standards to ensure safety and comfort for cyclists.

Riding eye lenses either have a special coating or are made of high-quality materials like NXT and polycarbonate for protection instead of cheap plastic lenses.

Fit

Good cycling glasses have an adjustable nose piece and temple arm. This way, the equipment stays firmly where it’s supposed to be throughout a ride, even in rougher terrain.

These can be expensive cycling glasses but fit better than those that don’t allow for adjustments.

Biking eyewear offers the perfect fit.

Extras

Some models have a hydrophobic coating to repel water, a plus for those living in humid conditions. Meanwhile, some pairs feature an anti-fog coating to help you see clearer in the early morning.

Also, if you want a pair of versatile riding glasses, consider using photochromic lenses as they darken under bright light and get lighter when there’s not enough light.

So, why are cycling glasses so expensive? The answer is clear. They possess a handful of characteristics that you may never see in their regular counterparts.

From the frame to the material, these pieces of eyewear are made to be your reliable companion on the road for both safety and performance.

Why Do You Need Cycling Glasses?

Protection From The Wind

When you cycle, the wind tends to cause dry eyes. This can result in pain and do long-term harm to your eyes.

The design of regular glasses allows the wind to enter from the upper and lower of the frame. Therefore, you need specialized glasses with a wraparound design to avoid the effects of the wind.

Protection From Road Dust, Debris, And Bugs

As you cycle, you will likely come in contact with dust, debris, bugs, even birds on the road. Eye lenses made of shatterproof materials like polycarbonate protect you from them.

Without proper eyewear, these objects can fly straight into your eyes, cause pain and injuries. They also disrupt your vision, making it difficult for you to see where you’re going.

Protection From UV Rays

Most cycling happens during the day when you’re exposed to the sun. While the ozone layer has blocked most of the UV rays, the rest of them still gets through to you and cause negative effects.

The eye lenses protect you from this, especially those who cycle at higher altitudes.

Why do you need proper riding eyewear

Frequently Asked Questions

What Color Lens Is Best For Cycling?

The color lens options you should use vary depending on bright conditions when you go biking.

• Amber and rose lenses are recommended for use in low-light conditions. They offer color contrast that enhances visual acuity in the dark.
• Grey lenses are another good choice for cyclists though they are not as good as amber and rose ones. These dark lenses provide true-to-life colors and work well in bright sunshine.
• Yellow lenses are good at filtering out blue light, offer better contrast, and improve low-light vision for bikers.

You can also opt for polarized lenses, which remove the vertically oscillating light portion coming from dazzling light sources.

How Do Pro Cyclists Keep Sweat Out Of Their Eyes?

Refer to the following methods to prevent sweat from touching your eyes.

• Wear a cycling helmet with a sweat bar. It will automatically absorb any water on your forehead, keeping it away from your eyes.
• Wear well-ventilated riding sunglasses. These assist sweat evaporation and avoid getting the eye lenses steamy.
• Wear a sweat-wicking headband. There are strips on the gear to channel your sweat to your temples.
• Wear a microfiber cycling cap under your helmet. It will collect your sweat and get rid of it through the brim.

How Should I Carry My Glasses When Cycling?

To wear riding eyewear properly, you need first to strap the helmet on. Then put your glasses on over the outside of the helmet straps.

This way, you can easily see outside your glasses and put on or take off your glasses.

How Can I Protect My Eyes From Dry Eyes?

There are a handful of ways for you to avoid dry eyes when cycling.

• Put on wraparound riding glasses. This design shields your eyes from the wind while reducing tear evaporation. If you want to protect your eyes better, consider using cycling glasses with foam seals.
• Use artificial tears. Carry a bottle with you. If your eyes get dry on the go, a few drops can help.
• Stay hydrated. Bring water on your bike rides. When you’re not riding, try to drink eight to ten glasses of water on a daily basis.

Are Cycling Sunglasses Worth It?

Yes, cycling sunglasses are worth investing in. Besides dust and debris, these sunglass lenses also protect against eye conditions caused by UV rays such as keratitis and cataracts that can eventually lead to blindness.

If you are serious about this sport, cycling sunglasses make a better friend than a regular pair of sunglasses.

Are Oakleys worth it cycling?

Yes, if you are willing to take more from your pocket, Oakleys are surely among the best options on the market. Their eyewear comes in fashionable designs, high-quality material and offers outstanding performance.

Related post:

• • >>> The Best Cycling Gear Tips For Beginners <<<
  • How Accurate Is Apple Watch Outdoor Cycling Calories? – A Great Workout Device
  • How Long Do Cycling Shorts Last? The Reasons Are Really Surprising
  • How Accurate Is Garmin VO2 Max Cycling? A Detailed Explanation
  • Can You Use Cycling Gloves For Kayaking? Is This A Good Idea?

Wrap Up

Why are cycling glasses so expensive? The answer is clear; they offer values surpassing normal lenses, including a specialized design, expert-level UV protection, high-quality materials, additional coatings, and more.

All in all, a nice pair of cycling glasses are made to keep you safe on the road while maintaining comfort and enhancing your performance. Though they are expensive glasses, the benefits make them worth it.