Just an accessory to enhance your style quotient as you ride along a winding road on your bike? That’s what you thought your sunglasses for cycling were all about?
They could be a smart accessory, but also a very useful one. No matter where you go cycling, terrain-wise, irrespective of whether you are a professional cyclist or not, you would need a good pair of sunglasses to protect you on the road. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right pair:
Think frames
Have you ever seen cyclists in metal-framed sunglasses? Not a good idea at all. Metal is just not the right material for frames, when it comes to sport sunglasses. It is better to choose plastic made of polycarbonate material which is light, strong and long-lasting. Also make sure there are some soft rubbery pads on the temples and nose to hold your glasses in place.
Rimmed or rimless
If you are just a road cyclist, you could wear rimmed glasses, but if you are a professional rider, you could opt for rimless so the visibility is improved.
Lenses matter
Choosing the right lenses when it comes to cycling is very important. There are options galore, from mirrored lenses to photochromic ones, and each kind serves a different purpose.
- Mirrored lenses are ideal for sunny conditions, as they block most of the light and make riding into the sun a better experience.
- Yellow or orange lenses are ideal for low-light riding conditions as it brighten up the road in low-light situations.
- Clear lenses are suitable for riding at night or in rainy conditions.
- Photochromic lenses adjust light automatically, depending on the light levels in a day. These could be ideal when you go out for cycling.
The fit of your sunglasses
The fit of the sunglasses is very important when you try them on. You would want your sunglasses to sit on your face tightly when you are cycling, but not too tight to make you uncomfortable. Also make sure that when you try on the frames, the peripheral field of vision is not hampered. The wrap-around fit may be more ideally suited than any other kind of sunglass fit.
While you are at it, try to look for anti-fog coating on the lenses so that the sunglasses don’t get fogged up. Anti-fog coated sunglasses are ideal for sportsmen and cyclists and improves visibility. Another important safety aspect is to make sure your sunglasses have UV protection. Cyclists spend a lot of time outdoors and protection from ultraviolet light is paramount. Lack of proper eyewear can harm the cornea and lead to problems such as macular degeneration or cancers of the eye.
For a map of cycling routes in Oakville, Ontario ,visit Oakville.ca
