Glasses For Cyclists
Cycling has become something of a sport for heroes in recent years, with the popularity of Lance Armstrong, Mark Cavendish and the Tour de France increasing interest in this endurance, physically exacting sport.
Proper Eye Protection Shows A Cyclist Is Serious
However, protecting the eyes whilst road cycling is absolutely crucial. Cycling without some form of eyewear is a real no no and something that separates the professional rider who takes his sport seriously from the amateur.
The Hazards Of The Road
As you cycle along, the road will throw up flying dirt and debris. Flies will enter the eye causing irritation and the wind and breeze will also annoy the eye. All the more reason to shield your precious eyes from foreign bodies which will cause itchiness and discomfort.
What To Look Out For When Choosing Cycling Glasses
The sun is also a factor, with bright light bouncing off the road surface so some form of UV protection is also indicated. Lenses reactive to light are a good idea, changing with the weather and the time of day. Cyclists should seriously consider prescription lenses offering UV protection to ensure that eyesight is 100% protected.
An alternative is to choose interchangeable lenses. For example, when riding in dark conditions (at night for example) a clear lens would be indicated. Bright sunlight would call for a dark lens, ideally one that helps with contrast so that the cyclist can pick out potential pitfalls on the road ahead – potholes, patches of gravel, puddles, stones, clumps of mud.
Rain is a serious problem when cycling – particularly as windscreen wipers for cycling glasses haven’t yet been developed! This hazard can be got around by choosing interchangeable lenses with a special coating that repels water and moisture. These can be worn with vision corrective spectacles if prescription cycling glasses are not wanted.
Cycling Glasses Need To Be Sturdy
Cycling is physically tough and eyewear needs to be able to cope with all the stresses this brings. So lenses will need to be impact resistant when the inevitable falls and bumps occur.
This also means that cycling glasses should be secure when they are being worn. The best frames, which are sturdy, firm and protect peripheral vision from dust and debris, are in a wrap around design. This will also benefit contact lenses wearers, as wrap arounds protect from wind which can cause the eye to dry, irritating the eye surface.
Equipped with the correct eyewear, a cyclist can go out for a ride on the open road knowing that he or she has optimum protection against all that the elements can throw their way. Being prepared is the key – so consider cycling eyewear carefully and choose the best for your needs.
If you need help to buy cycling glasses onlien please give us a call on 0800 862 0361.
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