When it comes to eye protection in cycling, sunglasses aren’t there just for the glare. Eye coverage is advised at all times while cycling whether the lenses are clear or coloured depending on light conditions.
The Lens
 Sunglasses have a UV protection and glare category 1, 2, 3 or 4. The higher the rating the better quality and more UV glare protection the lens offers.
Lens material needs to be impact resistance to debris (e.g. insects/stones). Most lenses are of a polycarbonate material which is a soft resin that can absorb high impacts. The down side to the lens being softer is that it can scratch more easily. However, a scratched lens is better than having a piece of shattered glass damage your eye.
There are various types of lenses that offer various advantages in differing conditions. Some examples are listed below: So for your next purchase think of styles that can swap lenses depending on the strength of uv and glare.
| Type | Characteristic | Condition | | Polarised | Reduces glare | Sunny days | | Photochromatic | Changes with all conditions | All | | Clear | Neutral | Dark | | Brown Red | Adds definition and relaxes eye | All day light | | Orange | Adds definition and relaxes eye | All day light | | Yellow | Adds definition | Cloudy / Dark | | Brown | Reduce glare | Sunny / High altitude |
 Some frames have full or half rims. Both have advantages and disadvantages. The key is to find a pair that is comfortable, well ventilated and safe. Full frames offer more safety protection to the face. However, some people find the full rim to be irritating and the lens is more likely to fog up when you are stationary. Half frames typically allow for more vision given there is less hindrances of the rim.
 However, in an accident there is an increase risk of cutting your face. These styles tend not to fog as much and the air dissipates more quickly when on the move. There are a lot of styles of sunglasses that are sports orientated and are ventilated, non slip, interchangeable and that you can get prescription lenses made for. The choice is vast. Just remember it’s very hard to ride without sight, so protect your eyes.
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