Top Performance Sunglasses for 2019
If getting outside to train, race or just be adventurous is high on your priority list, a pair of sunglasses just isn’t a pair of sunglasses anymore, since we’ve gone far beyond simple shinny mirror lenses and cheap metal frames. As they say, work hard – play hard, which involves getting sunglasses that are specifically made for protection and performance. Protecting your eyes from the damaging effects of the Sun’s ultraviolet rays and comfortably ensuring a clear view of the world around you are just some of the benefits of a quality pair of performance sunglasses. With the vast array of brands and models, searching for the perfect pair of performance sunglasses can be daunting. Which is why we tracked down eleven pairs of performance sunglasses that focus on comfort, UV protection, visual clarity, and a stable fit.
Tifosi Swick
Keep your eyes safe from the wind, bugs, road debris, and of course the sun with the Tifosi Swick Sunglasses. The lenses have UV protection that blocks 100% of UVA and UVB rays and a durable lightweight frame with a special grip coating to eliminate slippage even when you sweat. Don’t worry if you drop them either because they’re scratch-resistant and shatterproof. The Tifosi Swick is definitely a pair of shades with functionality that far surpasses its’ price. MSRP $25 tifosioptics.com
Wiley X Valor
Bringing you eyewear for life in motion, the Wiley X Valor sunglasses pack everything you need and everything you expect from the legendary brand. The Valor features Shatterproof Selenite polycarbonate lenses, double injected no slip nose pads, efficient ventilation to cut down on fog, and a lens lock system. The quick change lenses are also prescription ready, so you can experience the world in High Definition when you’re following your training route. For extra comfort, the frame has optimal flex zones and double injected rubber temples for non-slip traction. MSRP starting at $75 wileyx.com
Native Eyewear Raghorn
The Native Eyewear Raghorn sunglasses are actively styled and have a wider temple design and side venting to eliminate fogging while keeping the eyes nice and cool through all of your adventures. The N3™ lenses are lightweight, impact and scratch resistant for a long life, as well as polarized to kill the harsh reflected glare and lessen eye strain. The active frame is built tough while remaining lightweight, and delivers enhanced comfort whether you’re climbing mountains or tearing up the single track. MSRP $129 nativeyewear.com
UA Tuned Road Getaway
Sporting a unique blend of classic aviator styling and a sporty fit, the UA Tuned Road Getaway Sunglasses combine performance and style to take on everything from runs in the mountains to afternoons on the bike path. The Under Armour Performance lenses and an ArmourFusion frame keep them so light that you’ll forget you’re even wearing them, and nonslip nose and ear pads prevent them from slipping, no matter how hard you’re sweating or how rough and rugged the path gets. And thanks to the precise optical clarity of the ArmourSight lenses, you won’t miss a step. MSRP $145 underarmor.com
Bolle Shifter
See the road ahead like never before with the aerodynamic Bolle Shifter Sunglasses. Whether you’re cycling, running, or just trying to stay fast in the outdoors, these speed shades keep you at the front of the pack with optimal visual acuity. The Shifters deliver excellent coverage in a wrap style frame with shield style lens technology and ventilation that eliminates potential fogging issues. The Bolle lenses are treated with anti-smudge, anti-fog, and anti-reflective coatings delivering precise optical clarity. The goggle-esque design isn’t just for looks though, as the cylindrical shield lens paired with the minimalist frame gives you an extra-large field of vision, providing uncompromising clarity and protection whether you’re charging hard on the bike, or just cruising down trail. MSRP $149 bolle.com
Revant S2L
When you’re constantly pushing your body to the limits, it’s obvious that your eyes need top performing optics. Revant has finely tuned their Revant S2L Sunglasses to meet the needs of all athletes. The S2L sunglasses provide maximum field of view so you don’t miss a thing, no matter what bold pursuits you undertake. These interchangeable, sporty shades are equipped with Revant Elite lenses that deliver superior clarity and meet the highest quality standards for UV protection and polarization. The sleek, aerodynamic frame of the S2L is weight-balanced to eliminate bounce and it grips comfortably and tightly with MaxGrip technology while the angled temples avoid conflict with helmets and headwear. MSRP $175 revantoptics.com
Oakley Mercenary
Push yourself towards a new PR with the Oakley Mercenary Sunglasses keeping your vision crystal clear and eyes well protected. The Oakley HDPolarized lenses enhance color, contrast, and overall clarity, while the Prizm polarization eliminates reflective light and glare to keep your eyes comfortably seeing every detail on the road ahead. Comfortable Unobtainium rubber nose pads and temple tips lock down a snug, secure fit, even after working up a sweat. MSRP $206 oakley.com
Julbo Aerospeed
Designed for those who go after demanding, high-speed activities, the Julbo Aerospeed Sunglasses are uncompromising when it comes to performance and comfort. The photochromic REACTIV lens creates an XXL field of vision while darken and lighten as ambient light conditions change to keep up with your environment. Delivering an unbeatable hold in all conditions, the 3D Fit Nose utilizes special wingtips for adjustability that matches every type of nose shape. While innovative aerodynamics provide comfortable coverage and excellent penetration through air. MSRP $209 julbo.com
Rudy Project Tralyx
Tailored with cycling in mind, the Rudy Project Tralyx sunglasses feature a minimalist single lens design that keeps weight incredibly low (less than one ounce) while offering a wide field of vision and complete coverage for your eyes. This version of the Tralyx offers Rudy Project’s most versatile durable lens, the ImpactX-2 using photochromic technology for varying light conditions. The lens shifts from clear to gray when exposed to sunlight so you can comfortably wear these sunglasses in any lighting environment. The temples and nose pads are fully adjustable, allowing you to dial in a comfortable and secure fit. With features such as the unique PowerFlow ventilation system, Adaptive Tips, the ImpactX-2 lens and the latest Ergonose IX nosepiece, the Tralyx is an absolute masterpiece. MSRP $224.99 rudyproject.com
Roka CP-1X
One of Roka’s lightest full frame designs, the CP-1X Sunglasses are built for speed, comfort, and uncompromising optical excellence. The CP-1X weighs in at just under a single ounce, meaning you won’t even notice they are on your face while enjoying the protection and clarity they provide. The Toric Shield single lens provides wide field vision while protecting your eyes from wind and debris coming up from the trail. Roka used C3 optics to enhance color and contrast so you can spot every pothole or protruding root you encounter during your ride, while front and backside advanced lens coatings help resist moisture, abrasions, reflections, and fog. The Geko nose and temple pads provide a comfortable and consistent grip, even in the presence of perspiration, while holding the lenses in precise optical alignment. MSRP $240 roka.com
Smith Optics Caravan MAG
From singletracks to city streets, the Smith Optics Caravan MAG provides dependable versatility and protection. These sunglasses offer two lens options for different lighting conditions so your eyes are protected while giving you greater definition, more natural color, and invaluable clarity. The Caravan Mag allows you to quickly swap the base lenses with the included low-light Ignitor ChromaPop lenses with unbelievable ease thanks to its MAG technology. The Caravan MAG features a classic, rectangular silhouette for an adaptive look, while the Evolve lightweight and durable frame provides a pressure free feel and fit. While, the hydrophilic megol temples and nose pads keep these shades securely on your noggin, even when you’re breaking a sweat. MSRP $249 smithoptics.com
