The 8 Best Cycling Sunglasses from All Price Ranges (Buyer’s Guide)

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These are the best cycling sunglasses for road cycling, gravel, and mountain biking, from budget to high-end.

When I started taking cycling more seriously, I realized how important it is to protect my eyes and wear cycling sunglasses. I don’t even know how many sunglasses I have tried!

Before I wrote this article, I researched lenses available on the market, read through hundreds of customer reviews, and found models that pro cyclists wear to help you choose your next sunglasses.

What Are the Best Cycling Sunglasses?

Skip to the comparison table…

The best cycling sunglasses have a UV400 filter that protects your eyes against harmful UV-A and UV-B rays. They should also fit you well and provide sufficient eye protection. This is achieved through the sunglasses’ overall shape and the adjustable nose and arms.

More advanced sunglasses feature contrast-enhancing lenses that improve visibility of potholes and other road hazards. In addition, some sunglasses brands offer the option to customize lenses, frames, etc.

It’s also important to like the sunglasses’ design. Ultimately, you want to look good.

All cycling sunglasses in this selection provide the UV400 filter. Why is it important?

Oakley Radar EV Path (Best Cycling Sunglasses Overall)

The Oakley Radar EV Path sunglasses are very similar to the Oakley Jawbreaker. However, they differ slightly in the lens and frame shape.

The most noticeable difference between these and the Jawbreaker is in the field of view you get. The Radar EV Path sunglasses lack the bottom part of the frame, providing an uninterrupted field of view.

The Radar EV Path shape promotes airflow, keeping the lens fog-free even in humid environments. If it gets foggy, it will be clear again within seconds.

Like other Oakley cycling sunglasses models, these are equipped with PRIZM technology. This technology enhances color contrast to make potholes and bumps more visible, even from farther away.

The Radar EV Path’s main downside is that the arm pieces are quite long and can interfere with some bike helmets’ dial fit mechanisms.

Also available at competitivecyclist.com, rei.com, and tredz.co.uk

Tifosi Alliant (Best Budget Cycling Sunglasses)

Tifosi Optics makes affordable sunglasses for various sports, including cycling. The Alliant cycling sunglasses are popular for their price and modern look.

They come with three lenses, depending on your chosen variant (e.g., one increases contrast, one is clear, and one is tinted), and a convenient case.

Additionally, you can adjust their nose pads and arm pieces for a better fit. Speaking of fit, they are ideal for riders with larger faces due to their size.

Tifosi Alliant sunglasses are also durable and suitable for various MTB disciplines, such as cross-country.

The biggest disadvantage riders report is that they tend to fog.

SunGod Velans (Best Customizable Cycling Sunglasses)

SunGod sunglasses entered the WT peloton in 2023. They sponsored Ineos-Grenadiers in the 2023 season.

Thanks to their direct-to-consumer model, they offer high-quality sunglasses for a reasonable price.

Their biggest advantage is customizability. You can choose the color of the frame, lens, icons, and ear socks. This level of customization is uncommon among other manufacturers.

The Velans are also available with or without the bottom frame. So you can choose the one you prefer or pay extra for a conversion kit.

The lenses feature contrast-enhancing technology. One of the things I like most about SunGod is its lens guide, which shows how your view changes with different lens colors.

The nose pads come in four sizes and are adjustable, so the sunglasses won’t slip off your face.

Unlike other sunglasses on this list, the arm pieces are not adjustable. But based on reviews, there is it’s not needed.

Two more cool details to mention: SunGod’s frames are made of 100% recycled plastic and come with a lifetime warranty.

The only disadvantage is that they come without a hard protective case.

100% Speedcraft

I know that appearance is subjective. But I asked 10 of my fellow cyclists, and eight agreed they liked the 100% Speedcraft sunglasses.

Before 100% partnered with Peter Sagan in 2017, you could be familiar with the 100% brand thanks to mountain/downhill biking and motocross sunglasses.

However, their clever marketing, backed by Peter Sagan, also led to growing popularity among road cyclists.

100% sunglasses are typical for their large size, sharp edges, and high-quality materials. The lens has hydrophobic & oleophobic treatment to repel water, oil, and dirt. Of course, the lens is coated with a scratch-resistant layer, so you won’t scratch the lens as easily.

100% also developed lenses that increase color contrast and clarity. This technology, called HiPER, is available only for selected lenses. So keep that in mind.

The Speedcraft glasses are available in more than ten attractive colors, as well as Peter Sagan’s limited editions. I recommend checking their XS version if you are a woman or have a narrow face.

Also available at competitivecyclist.com

Oakley Sutro (Best Big Cycling Sunglasses)

Oakley Sutro sunglasses look unique. Some people love them. Some hate them. So far, they are not as widespread as Oakley Jawbreaker, for example, so you will still attract others’ attention.

Thanks to the big lens, they provide enough protection to your eyes yet are still comfortable to wear. In addition, you can choose different lenses and frame colors, so it is pretty easy to match them with your cycling kit.

Also, don’t overlook the PRIZM technology. It increases color contrast, so everything looks clearer. This means you will be able to spot potential dangers like potholes well in advance, even on sunny days or during transitions from shade to sun.

Even though these glasses’ lenses are relatively large, they will not fog as much, thanks to their anti-fog surface treatment. This is good news for every climber! And, if you manage to scratch the lens, you can replace it easily.

Many pro cyclists wear Oakley Sutro sunglasses, including Grand Tour winner Egan Bernal.

Also available at competitivecyclist.com, jensonusa.com, and tredz.co.uk

Are these cycling sunglasses too expensive for you? Check my selection of the best cheap cycling sunglasses.

Rudy Project Defender

Rudy Project Defender sunglasses are probably the most well-known, thanks to WT Team Bahrain Victorious riders who use them.

They look great and combine all the features you expect from high-end cycling sunglasses.

You can adjust their arm pieces and nose pads to make them fit properly. Speaking of fit, they are suitable for riders with medium-sized faces.

Rudy Project Defender comes with a hard protective case that is great for traveling.

Naturally, they are available in multiple color options, and you can buy an extra photochromic lens.

The major downside of these sunglasses is the relatively high price.

Oakley Jawbreaker (Most Iconic Cycling Sunglasses)

Oakley Jawbreaker is one of the most iconic pairs of cycling sunglasses on the market. They gained popularity among pro cyclists, and it is no wonder that other manufacturers began copying them.

But why are they so popular? Well, there are several reasons for that. First, they fit most face types and still look good. Second, they are comfortable, thanks to rubber nose pads and arm pieces.

The lens shape and PRIZM technology provide a wide field of view and enhanced color contrast. This makes it easier to spot holes and other possible threats on the road.

Third, replacing lenses is also effortless, thanks to Switchlock technology. You can take advantage of it quite often, as many lenses are available for the Jawbreaker model.

Fourth, you may also notice the holes on the top of the lenses. These holes ensure sufficient ventilation, leading to a fog-free lens. This is important, especially in humid conditions.

And lastly, the design. These glasses look super cool, so you will draw positive attention.

Tifosi Tyrant 2.0

If you are looking for very simple and minimalistic cycling sunglasses that you can also use for various outdoor activities, Tifosi Tyrant 2.0 should catch your attention.

These sunglasses don’t follow the trend of large lenses. This makes them suitable for riders with small faces.

Their lenses are photochromic, so they darken based on light conditions. This feature makes them perfect for mountain biking, where shadows and sunshine often alternate.

They also don’t fog as much, but they clear up within a few seconds when they do. Additionally, the nose pads are adjustable to ensure a proper fit.

The major disadvantage of the Tifosi Tyrant 2.0 is that it doesn’t come in many color options, so choosing a color that matches your kit may be difficult.

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Product	Weight	Contrast Enhancement	Interchangeable Lens	Buy
Oakley Radar EV Path	29 g	Yes	Yes	Check Price Check Price (competitivecyclist.com)
Tifosi Alliant	30 g	Yes	Yes	Check Price
SunGod Velans	29 g	Yes	Yes	Check Price
100% Speedcraft	35 g	Yes	Yes	Check Price Check Price (competitivecyclist.com)
Oakley Sutro	32 g	Yes	Yes	Check Price Check Price (competitivecyclist.com)
Rudy Project Defender	28 g	Yes	Yes	Check Price
Oakley Jawbreaker	34 g	Yes	Yes	Check Price
Tifosi Tyrant 2.0	n/a	No	Yes	Check Price

List of the best cycling sunglasses with info about their weight, contrast-enhancing lenses, and interchangeable lenses.

My Verdict

The best cycling sunglasses are the Oakley Radar EV Path. Their design is timeless (take a look at riders in the pro peloton, and you’re sure to find more than one wearing them) and fits most face shapes.

Radar EV Path sunglasses are available in more than 20 colors, so matching them with your bike helmet and cycling kit is easy. Furthermore, the lens is interchangeable, so you can replace it easily if you damage it.

The PRIZM lens increases contrast and clarity, making it easier to see potholes and road bumps.

The lenses’ shape provides a clear field of vision, sufficient eye protection, and ventilation to keep the lenses fog-free.

I admit these are not the cheapest cycling sunglasses, but they are worth the price.

How to Choose Cycling Sunglasses?

Cycling sunglasses have many features that you may not even know about. In this section, you will learn what to be aware of when choosing them. It’s a consolidated version of my in-depth guide to choosing cycling sunglasses.

UV Protection

UV-A and UV-B penetrate the atmosphere even in shaded or cloudy conditions. The exposure can be as high as 90%. Sand, water, and snow can heighten the effect by up to 70 %. This means wearing cycling sunglasses is especially important if you ride in high mountains or near the ocean.

The UV-C is absorbed by the ozone layer and does not reach the Earth’s surface.

The effects I described above have a relatively easy solution. The sunglasses must have a UV400 filter. It will absorb UV-A and UV-B radiation and protect your eyes.

All cycling sunglasses listed above have the UV400 filter.

Lenses

Lenses are the most important part of sunglasses. They are supposed to block UV radiation, protect your eyes from the weather, and increase the contrast to provide clear vision.

According to the EU standard (EN 1836:2005), there are five basic light transmission categories of lenses. These vary in the amount of light they transmit:

Cat.	VTL*	Glasses Usage	Lens
0	80‑100%	Interiors, night, cloudy days	Clear, light yellow, pale orange and yellow
1	43-80%	Urban areas, partially cloudy (low sun exposure)	Rose, orange and vermilion
2	18-43%	Medium sun exposure	Purple, red, amber, and light brown
3	8-18%	Beaches, mountains (light reflected off sand, water, or snow)	Standard grey and brown
4	3-8%	Intense sunshine (in high mountains, glaciers, or near the sea)	Dark grey and brown

This table shows the light transmission categories, the percentage of visible light transmission, and the recommended glasses and less color usage for a given category.
*VTL – Visible Light Transmission
Sources: sunglassesforsport.com, verywellhealth.com, EN 1836:2005

When cycling on cloudy days, you can use category 0 lenses and category 1 lenses during partially cloudy days. In the summer, reach for category 2 or 3 lenses. If you ride in high mountains, use category four lenses.

What Is the Difference Between Photochromic and Polarized Lenses?

Photochromic lenses are eyelenses made of glass that are clear (or nearly clear) indoors and darken when exposed to sunlightexplains Gary Heiting, OR, in his blog post.

Polarized lenses can be described as follows:

Polarized lenses are primarily used to reduce the sun’s glare. They always come in the form of sunglasses, never eyeglasses, and don’t change color.

Photochromic lenses change color in response to sunlight. Polarized lenses are permanently tinted dark.

Continue reading about polarized vs. photochromic lenses for cycling.

Prescription Lenses

Using prescription lenses when riding a bike is important if you have poor eyesight. They allow you to spot holes, bumps, and other threats that could surprise you and cause a crash.

PRO TIP: Avoid wearing glass lenses during your ride. You risk hurting your eyes during a potential crash.

You can get prescription lenses at your local specialized retailers. They usually make custom lenses for almost any type of cycling sunglasses.

Remember, prescription lenses are not included in the price of sunglasses, so you will have to order them separately. Usually, they can double the price of the sunglasses.

Lenses for Colorblind People

According to All About Vision, there are multiple types of color blindness, like red-green, blue-yellow, or complete color blindness.

If you suffer from any of these types, you should buy sunglasses for your type of color blindness.

Unfortunately, during my research, I didn’t find any specialized cycling sunglasses for colorblind people. However, you can check out brands like EnChroma that specialize in developing glasses for the colorblind.

Dimensions & Fit

When buying glasses, you will encounter several dimensions. The following picture illustrates the most important ones.

The lens width and lens height are entirely up to your preference. I prefer smaller lenses, yet huge lenses are trendy.

The temple length is also important. I recommend buying glasses with shorter temple lengths to avoid interference with the arm pieces and the bike helmet.

The most important dimensions are the bridge & frame width. These two measurements influence how well the sunglasses will fit you. For example, people with larger noses will appreciate the wider bridge.

Aim for narrower frame widths (around 140 mm) if you have a narrow face. Otherwise, the glasses will look too big on your face and may even slip.

Disclaimer: These recommendations are based on my experience, and I don’t guarantee that sunglasses with these dimensions will fit you. Every pair of sunglasses has a different shape, influencing how well they fit. Therefore, it is always better to try them in person.

Adjustability

Cycling sunglasses must fit well if you want to get the most out of them. As I explained before, the glasses’ fit is closely related to the bridge width (nose pads), glasses width, arm piece length, and overall shape.

More expensive cycling sunglasses have adjustable nose pads (e.g., Rockbros Cateye) and sometimes even adjustable arm pieces (like the Oakley Jawbreaker). Thanks to the nose pads, you can regulate how close the glasses will be to your eyes and how much space is around them.

The closer the sunglasses are to your face, the better protection you get against the wind (even from the sides). Yet, you may feel claustrophobic if they are too close to your eyes.

Adjustable arm pieces are becoming more common. They allow you to adjust their shape (or length) to ensure a better fit and comfort.

Why Should You Wear Cycling Sunglasses?

I would not bother you with why I think wearing glasses when riding a bike if I didn’t believe it is important.

We have a nice idiom in the Czech Republic: Opakování je matka moudrosti. (Repetition is the mother of wisdom.) Its meaning is similar to ‘Practice makes the master.‘

So, here are the 3 main reasons to wear cycling sunglasses:

1. UV Rays and Weather Protection

Did you know UV rays can cause eye cancer (ocular melanoma)? Some studies have confirmed this. According to the American Cancer Society, UV rays can also cause other eye problems:

The UV rays can lead to the formation of cataracts (clouding of the eye’s lens) and tissue growth on the surface of your eye (pterygium). And your cornea may even become inflamed or burned.

These UV rays’ effects on our eyes are also confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO estimated that up to 20% of cataracts (or 3 million per year) could be due to UV exposure to the eye.

What is the conclusion? It pays off to invest in cycling sunglasses. But make sure they have proper UV filters. Read more about them in the UV protection section.

2. Protection Against Insects & Dirt

If you have ever ridden fast downhill without glasses, you know how annoying it is. In the best-case scenario, the wind causes you to start tearing up. In the worst-case scenario, a fly flies into your eye. As a result, you lose balance and crash.

But the protection doesn’t end there. Insects can be unpleasant, even on flats. Especially in the summer, when it’s warm, they’re the most active.

PRO TIP: If you want to take off your glasses during a ride, use air vents in your bike helmet or jersey collar. Your glasses will be easily accessible in these places, so you can put them on when needed.

Even a tiny fly can throw you off balance. If you ride alone, it may not be such a big deal. But in a group ride, you can endanger others, especially if you get off your line.

You will also appreciate cycling sunglasses when riding in mud, in forests, or in crosswinds. Just make sure you choose the right size. I explain how to do that in the section below.

3. You Will Look Like a Pro

When I was a kid, the thing I liked about professional cyclists was their sunglasses. They looked so cool. And quite frankly, cycling sunglasses are a perfect accessory that accentuates your style.

Make sure you match the sunglasses to your bike helmet and jersey, and you will be one step closer to the ‘pro look.’

PRO TIP: Always wear your cycling sunglasses over your helmet straps. It looks better and it’s easier to take them off.

Cycling Sunglasses FAQ

This post is regularly updated to provide the most up-to-date product tips. If you find a product that is not up to date, please contact me.

Preview picture: Sirotti (edited)