Here are my reasons for wearing sunglasses, particularly when bicycling:
- They keep my eyes from getting dry from wind or general air movement.
- They help my eyes adjust to changes in lighting while maintaining maximum visibility.
- They make me look serious and fashionable.
Okay, maybe I don’t wear them for that last reason, but I appreciate the affect. I need all the help I can get to look like a legitimate cyclist, especially with what the wind does to my hair.
However, not just any sunglasses will do for the job. I didn’t even wear sunglasses for years, because I thought the only ones available were the cheap ones that just make everything dark. You do NOT want to ride a bicycle while wearing these. Then, for a few years, I only had some higher grade sunglasses that were great for driving and I never questioned if they were best for biking, too. Until one day, I realized my eyes were getting very dry and I was having trouble seeing in shady spots with my nice sunglasses while riding my bike. I needed something different for riding my bike.
I went into one of my local bicycle shops, Rolling H Cycles, and explained my problem to them. They recommended some Ryders sunglasses, with interchangeable lenses. I wanted something that fit to my face more closely. At that point, I didn’t even know there was something that would provide higher visibility in both the shadows and on cloudy days. The shop guy showed me how the lenses were easy to change out, and let me try it myself, which made me nervous, but it was easy. Nothing but fingers needed. I tried them on and they were comfortable. So, three sunglasses options for the price of one. I decided to purchase them.
They do fit my face closely, but without making me feel squished or getting fogged up. The bottom edge sits lightly against my cheeks, but then I have always had generous cheeks. The sides of the lenses wrap around the side enough to inhibit airflow there, but without obstructing my peripheral vision at all. It seemed too good to be true. The glasses come with both a hardshell case that zips shut and store the extra lens in slots. There is also a soft case for just carrying around the pair that you want. (click on any photo to enlarge)
At first, I had the medium dark lenses in the sunglasses frames, for sunny summer bike riding. Then, one day it was cloudy, and I changed to the orange lenses. I LOVE the orange lenses. Not only did they cut the glare, but they made everything brighter. This is a marvel of modern inventions! I do realize that I have not “thoroughly researched” all sunglasses available, but since I have limited funds and the sunglasses that I have now have functioned superbly for me for several months, I think I can say they are definitely the best sunglasses I have ever had. Very light weight, too, and feel secure in place so far.
When I wore the orange lenses I found that I had much less trouble than usual adjusting to shadows. Really, I had no trouble at all now. This is very useful for cycling.
I should mention that I have not tried the medium lenses. The orange lenses have stayed put all winter long. However nice the other lenses are though, they won’t be as cool as the orange ones. Fortunately, I have orange shorts, so I can balance the loss of the lenses when planning my outfits. 😉
