Whatever the time of year, investing in a good pair of cycling glasses is always recommended. Not only do they help manage the sun, but they also protect the eyes from damage caused by objects that could be lifted during a race.
In winter, the sun is not always the biggest problem, but it is always necessary to wear glasses as much as possible. Finding specific lenses for this time of year may seem complicated, but particular options work well when the temperature drops.
These are the best winter cycling goggles on the market today. They can also be used at other times of the year, but they stand out for their ability to provide extra support in colder temperatures.
1. Oakley Radar EV Advancer
Arguably the best-known and most reliable cyclist sunglasses in the industry, Oakley has a style designed specifically for riding on the sidewalk and riding every month.
The Oakley Radar EV Advancers are a little expensive, but people understand they’re tough and offer great coverage in various ways.
These Oakleys are durable when going out on the street and riding daily. People use them for all sports, which makes sense with how they’re built.
They’re the lightest of all the options on this list when worn on the face, and some people even forget they’re wearing them sometimes. It may sound crazy to think that way, but Oakley has gone to great lengths to ensure they can fit everyone’s face.
Prices can vary significantly with sunglasses, especially with the most popular colors. Be patient, look around, and there’s a chance you might find some pretty good prices.
Pros
- A very reliable name in the industry.
- Customizable to fit any face.
- Durable enough to withstand the harshest of winter days.
Cons
- A little more expensive.
- Changing lenses can sometimes be challenging.
2. Rudy Project Defender
Rudy Project Defender (Amazon) sunglasses, one of the top-rated options online, is a perfect option for people who want a versatile style.
With options that include standard lenses and photochromic lenses, people can get the kind of assistance they need during any trip.
Not only are they built for ultimate comfort, but they’re also highly breathable at any time of year. People don’t usually sweat as much during the winter, but if there’s a little moisture, it can get stuck in places that could fog up the lenses.
The technology behind the Rudy Project Defenders allows a person always to maintain a clear vision.
The photochromic lenses used on some of these sunglasses are great. They change tint very quickly, and a person can count on excellent definitions no matter how they’re used.
It may not seem essential to wait a few seconds longer with other brands, but it’s hard to go back after using these glasses.
The general fit of these sunglasses is also very versatile. With various fitting solutions, people can find what they need and feel comfortable wearing them.
All it takes is a few adjustments, which can be done by one person alone, and everything is as it should exactly be.
The sunglasses branding is a bit negative for some people because they put their name on the side and a logo on the front.
Since it’s not as well-known a brand as some other companies, people are not always enthusiastic about advertising in this way.
However, as long as they continue to produce, they will have a lot of fans during the winter months as far as the cyclists are concerned.
Pros
- Very adaptable.
- Photochromic lenses adapt quickly.
- Durable.
Cons
- Excessive marking.
- Some color choices are challenging to find in stock.
3. Bolle Thief
Some of the colors of the Bolle Shifter (Amazon) may not seem to be made for winter, but they still perform very well. With a modern design with a touch of retro as well, people like to be able to get them in standard or prescription glasses.
One thing that sets them apart is that they’re a one-piece lens that offers clarity every month of the year. In the winter, it can provide low-intensity lighting, which is very practical for walks at dusk.
During the day, it can also help block the sun’s rays, which can sometimes cause problems in the winter. It provides complete coverage for just about anyone, ensuring that a person never feels in a very uncomfortable position.
Some people don’t like the thickness of the frame, as it may feel a little heavier than some of the other options.
Putting them on and not adjusting them at all can be a way to make them feel quite heavy.
The Bolle Shifter can work all year round, and its price is quite affordable for a brand. Store around and see if a color choice stands out, and they can become a new pair of cyclist sunglasses.
The pros
- Unique design.
- Built for complete coverage.
- Variety of color choices.
Cons
- A little heavy on the face.
- Peripheral vision is slightly limited.
4. Tifosi Criteria
The Tifosi Crit (Amazon) is among the best and most affordable photochromic lenses.
They change very quickly depending on the weather, but their durability and fit make them one of the best options.
No matter what day, everything lights up when you use these sunglasses. People feel like they can see more clearly than ever before, which is always positive when driving around.
Tifosi may not be very well known in the sunglasses world, but they have an excellent online audience because of their affordable price.
People can find something twice as expensive for less than $100 compared to other pairs. This is a huge bonus for people afraid to spend too much money on a pair of sunglasses they will use in profusion.
The color choices may not be as numerous as those of other companies, but overall, it is a pair of sunglasses worth trying.
Even if it’s the second pair of sunglasses that some people will use in specific scenarios, they might be where they have an investment. They are indeed built for the changing winter weather but can also be worn 12 months of the year.
Pros
- Very affordable.
- Fast transition lenses.
- Makes vision very clear at any time of day.
Cons
- Color choices are a bit limited.
- The brand is a little unknown.
5. Scicon Aerowing Sport Performance Sunglasses
The Scicon Aerotech Photochromic SCN-XT is a high-priced winter option that feels right at home. Many cyclists have enjoyed using it during our time of year and excel during winter.
Like many photochromic lenses, they are one of the fastest at the moment. They’re much more than just transition lenses, which is why they’re expensive. Not everyone is entirely on board from the start, but it’s worth losing more and more.
The first thing that sets them apart is UV 400 protection, which means a person will be 100% covered against harmful rays.
Those who might live in sunnier places during the summer will have to make sure they have all the protection they need, no matter when they go for a ride. Many companies do not offer this type of UV protection, which is a good bonus.
They are also the most durable of the lot for wear and tear. It will be challenging for people to take them down anytime soon because everything from the frame to the lenses is designed for heavy use.
It makes a lot of sense to ensure that something like this is durable because someone initially spends a lot of money.
Is it worth paying the total price compared to much cheaper options? Not everyone agrees, especially when looking at some well-known brands that offer something as good for less.
Many take these classes, but it’s hard to swallow when you spend so much on protection.
Pros
- Excellent photochromic lenses that act quickly.
- Very durable.
- UV 400 protection.
Cons
- It is expensive.
- Limited choice of colors.
Tips for buying winter cycling goggles
All of the above options are designed specifically for winter conditions, so people should be able to customize things as much as possible. These additional tips will help you make sure everything works as it should.
Lenses for all light conditions
In winter, it gets darker more quickly, which means dealing with various conditions. If the light is low, a person needs the right lenses to see things as clearly as possible.
On the other hand, there can be very strong sunshine in winter. Adjusting lenses to the time of day quickly makes a lot of sense.
Never underestimate the sun’s power from snow or ice in winter. In many ways, it can be more intense under any summer sun.
Many people think that winter means they don’t need sun protection, but the eyes are always very sensitive during the day.
People who don’t want to feel like they’re constantly changing lenses can opt for photochromic lenses. It’s a way to make the transition in seconds to cope with any weather situation.
They usually cost a little more, but those who make longer trips may feel like it’s a necessary investment.
UV protection
The vast majority of quality cycling goggles available today have good protection against ultraviolet rays. Make sure you understand that every pair of goggles has this protection before settling in.
Full coverage
Riders prefer full coverage around the eyes, regardless of the time of year. In winter, it doesn’t make much difference, but there are more things on the ground that could lift and get into a person’s eye.
Full coverage protects the most vulnerable face area, making people feel much more comfortable overall.
When it comes to sun protection, it’s also good because there are no leaks that could cause problems. Some people are distracted if their glasses don’t provide full coverage. The next thing they know, they’re simultaneously struggling with the sun and glasses.
Comfort and feel
Wearing sunglasses for hours can frustrate people if they don’t have the right size. It’s essential to take the time to make sure the glasses fit properly and make adjustments if necessary.
So many people don’t take the time to adjust a little here and there, and they can start hurting themselves.
It may not seem like much, but poorly fitting sunglasses can cause headaches, wrinkles on a person’s face, and more. This may not be a significant problem for some people, but others will be much more satisfied with finding something that fits them.
Relying on quality sunglasses in winter
It may not be the number one essential for horseback riding, but everyone should have a nice pair of sunglasses for the whole year.
Don’t forget them in winter, even if the weather seems overcast. Not only can the weather change, but there are still many positive things you can do by wearing them on every ride.
Having the right pair of sunglasses may seem like an investment, but keeping your vision as sharp as possible is worth it.