So you’re checkin’ out the best cycling sunglasses of 2023. Cycling sunglasses are one of the most important parts of your gear, so it’s great that you’re doing your research! We’d argue that a great pair of bike sunglasses can make or break your ride, and we explain how toward the end of this blog.
But first, let’s get into the frames. A lot goes into finding the right pair of cycling sunglasses. For a full breakdown of what you should consider, check out our Cycling Sunglasses Buyer’s Guide. You can also skip ahead based on the table of contents below, including the part where we talk about what to look for when buying cycling sunglasses.
In this post:
Best Sunglasses for Cycling in 2023
Oakley Sutro LITE
Rudy Project Cutline
100% Speedcraft
Oakley Flak 2.0 XL
Rudy Project Rydon
SportRx Koda
SMITH Leadout Pivlock
Oakley Plazma
100% Hypercraft
What to Look for When Buying Cycling Sunglasses
Shop the Best Sunglasses for Cycling Online at SportRx
Cycling Sunglasses FAQs
Here’s what you can expect to see in our Best Cycling Sunglasses of 2023 list:
- Honest reviews. We are athletes ourselves, so we know how helpful it is to hear both pros and potential cons about a frame. Keep in mind that what one cyclist considers a possible drawback, another might see as a benefit. It really just depends!
- Similar options. We know everyone has different budgets, so we did our best to include similar frames at a lower cost for most of the picks in our lineup.
- Real experience. The info you read here has been gathered from cyclists on staff as well as faithful friends and customers who offer real-life opinions.
- Variety. Our big focus at SportRx is prescription eyewear, but for this list, we added something for everyone. That means we held nothing back when selecting our picks.
- Rider tips. Sprinkled throughout and at the end of this list are rider tips on different topics, such as polarized cycling lenses, the best lens colors for cycling, and links to related content that you might find useful in your journey. Get it? Journey! Heheh.
In no particular order, here are SportRx’s top picks for the best cycling sunglasses of 2023. Check ‘em out!
Best Sunglasses for Cycling in 2023
Oakley Sutro LITE
Men's Large, Women's Large
For a frame that delivers in all areas, you won’t be disappointed with the Sutro Lite. Unless your noggin is on the bigger side, as this is slightly smaller than the original Sutro. Both frames have a ton of Oakley’s proprietary Unobtanium™ grip on the nose bridge, but only the Lites have it on the earsocks as well for extra staying power. We also went with the Lites because they’re half-rimmed for a clear and open bottom view. The Sutro Lites are available in lots of PRIZM™ lens color options, which deliver amazing optics. We’re big fans of PRIZM™ Road. They don’t fog, they have excellent wind coverage, and they can withstand wear and tear.
We don’t have any cons for this frame, really, except that you can’t get it in your prescription and there isn’t a comparable option. It’s just legit. One other thing you should know is that the Sutros are popular, so you probably won’t be the only one in the group ride with them. That might be a downside for some!
Oakley Sutro LITE Cycling Sunglasses with PRIZM Road Lenses
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PROS
- Durable
- Tons of nose grip
- Semi-rimless design gives an open bottom view
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Lots of PRIZM™ lens options
CONS
- Not available in Rx
- Nothing quite similar to it
Rudy Project Cutline
Men's Large, Women's Large
When it comes to quality, comfort, and craftsmanship, you can’t beat Rudy Project’s Cutline. This is one of the all-time best cycling glasses you can find, and it starts with the frame’s construction. It’s entirely made in Italy, and even though you can feel its quality, it isn’t a heavy piece of eyewear. Every part of the Cutline can be easily removed or adjusted to your preference, so you can even make them totally rimless if you wanted. And, literally every piece is vented, which makes it one of the top frames for anti-fogging. If you’re a variable light cyclist, you’ll dig their ImpactX-2 photochromic shield, which goes from a clear to a fantastic contrast-enhancing red in just 10 seconds.
The Cutline is an ideal choice for the cyclist who has a hard time finding the right fit, with one caveat: it isn’t the best for narrow faces. It also can’t be beat for its modular design.
We’ll cut right to the chase. This is not a cheap frame! However, that might not matter to the person who is willing to pay top dollar for a cycling frame that is so highly customizable and comfortable. It also isn’t available in Rx. Boo. If we had to choose a similar option, we’d likely go with the Oakley Sutro.
Rudy Project Cutline Cycling Glasses with ImpactX-2 Lenses
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PROS
- Expert craftsmanship
- Incredibly adjustable
- One of the best anti-fogging frames
- Comfortable
- Photochromic shield
CONS
- Not cheap
- Not available in Rx
- Potential option: Oakley Sutro
100% Speedcraft
Men's XL, Women's XL
Looks can be deceiving, but that isn’t the case with the 100% Speedcraft. Not only does it look rad, it’ll wow you with its performance and coverage. Ranking its strengths in order, we’d say the Speedcraft first excels in eye protection. It does an amazing job at keeping out dirt and debris while keeping your view clear and ventilated with air scoops on the bottom. Its frame shape is quite unique, which includes extra space on the brow line for a wide field of view and hooding along the top to prevent light leaks. The Speedcraft also stays put during jumps and rattles, thanks Megol grips on the touch points. Keep in mind that this frame is on the larger side, so if the fit isn’t right, you might experience slippage. And even though it’s lightweight, it’s still durable and can stand up to generous wear and tear.
Lastly, get a load of this style! The Speedcraft has an unmistakable look that’ll turn heads wherever you are. So depending on your tastes, this could be a pro or a con! We think it’s rad.
We’d say the biggest drawback—other than it not being available in Rx—is that it’s not the most adjustable frame. It does come with an extra nose bridge that you can swap out, but the piece itself doesn’t bend. It also might fit weird with certain helmets, but this could also be a sizing issue. If you wear a medium or smaller helmet, the Speedcraft might bow on the sides.
100% Speedcraft Cycling Sunglasses with HiPER Copper Lenses
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PROS
- Excellent coverage
- Stays put
- Durable
- Lightweight
CONS
- Not available in Rx
- Nose pad isn't adjustable
- Nothing quite similar to it
Oakley Flak 2.0 XL
Men's Medium, Women's Large
No best cycling sunglasses list would be complete without the Oakley Flak 2.0 XL. Where do we start! Hands down, the Flak 2.0 XL is one of the most comfortable frames you’ll ever wear—whether you’re a cyclist or not. Oakley nails it with their Three-Point Fit system, which evenly distributes the frame weight to resolve annoying slippage and discomfort. And whereas lots of frames keep the grip material to a minimum, Oakley covered the entire temples in Unobtanium™ grip. Despite its durable construction, the Flak 2.0 XL is incredibly lightweight and easy to wear without being flimsy or fragile. It provides excellent coverage and just the right amount of airflow. But one of our favorite parts is still the lenses, which are prescription-friendly and interchangeable! We recommend PRIZM™ Road.
We’d say the size fits a range of noggins, but you should still know that the Flak 2.0 XL isn’t very adjustable. It does come with a bonus set of bigger nose pads. To be honest, the look isn’t for everyone, but we think that’s true for most cycling glasses! It might be a bit more functional than fashionable, but it’s still one of Oakley’s all-time most popular frames. It’s just tried and true. But, we’ll leave it to you to decide!
Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Cycling Sunglasses with PRIZM Road Lenses
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PROS
- Most comfortable
- Prescription friendly!
- Won't budge
- Easily interchangeable lenses
- Lightweight but sturdy
CONS
- Nose pads don't adjust
- Temples don't adjust
- Potential option: Tifosi Vero (but it's smaller)
Rudy Project Rydon
Men's Large, Women's Large
We’ve talked a lot so far about non-Rx cycling frames, but we’re SportRx—prescription eyewear is what we do! And few prescription cycling glasses come close to the Rudy Project Rydon.
We’ll start with the frame quality. The Rydon is wonderfully lightweight and limber. Yet, due to its exceptional construction, it takes the cake for the most durable frame on our list. You get lots of adjustability with rubberized temples and nose pads, and one of the easiest lens change systems you can find. Since the frames are so high quality, they’ll last through updates to your prescription and save you money. You’ll only ever need to swap out the lenses! And as if we needed to mention it, Rudy Project optics are phenomenal. With a range of sizes and even high prescription interchangeable cycling lenses, the Rydon lineup has something for everyone. If you're looking for high Rx lenses, check out the Rudy Project Rydon + Rx Dock.
Potential cons include the price, but with Rudy Project, you’re guaranteed a quality product in return. We don’t think there is a true similar option for the Rydon, but you could try the Oakley Flak 2.0 XL or the Tifosi Vero or Veloce. However, only the Rydon can work with high prescriptions. Lastly, the aesthetics might not be your cup of tea. But if you like an open-style frame, the Rydon sets the standard.
Rudy Project Rydon Cycling Sunglasses with ImpactX-2 Lenses
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PROS
- Most durable
- Rudy Project quality
- Works with most Rx
- Quick change lens system
- Been around for 15 years and it's still amazing
CONS
- Not cheap
- Potential option: Tifosi Veloce
SportRx Koda
Men's Medium, Women's Medium
Not every cyclist is into wrap-style frames, and we know this! Prepare to be surprised by the SportRx Koda. What appears to be an average, everyday-looking pair of sunglasses is actually a favorite among mountain bikers and cyclists alike. We love the Koda most for its grip, lens options, and ridiculous value. You’ll notice it has a classic wayfarer shape that is flattering on just about anyone, but what you can’t see from the front are hidden rubberized nose pads and grips on each temple. So it’s sporty, but without looking too sporty. It performs well for more activities than it doesn’t, especially sweaty ones. So you can take the Koda for a ride and keep it on even when you’re not wrapped in Lycra. Boom!
We also know that wrap frames can be tricky for certain cyclists with complex or high prescriptions. If that’s you, give the Koda a try. Of all the frames on our best cycling sunglasses of 2023 list, the Koda is the most prescription-friendly. And lastly, you can’t beat the lens options. As a SportRx exclusive, you can put any Sport Optimized Lens into your Koda frames: Transitions, progressives, even clear. Our favorite for any ride on two wheels is the Rose Inferno.
You might not like the Koda if you’re looking for maximum wind protection or a more adjustable frame. It does have a 6-base curvature, but not as much as the full wrap shape of an 8-base curvature.
SportRx Koda Cycling Sunglasses with Rose Inferno Lenses
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PROS
- Best price
- Most Rx-able!
- Impressive grip
- Most lens options
- No lower-priced option necessary! Starts at $99
CONS
- Less coverage
- Nose pads aren't adjustable
- Temples aren't adjustable
SMITH Leadout Pivlock
Men's Large, Women's Large
If you want all the perks of the best cycling sunglasses but without the super sporty look, the SMITH Leadout PivLock is one of the best frames you can find. Like all of the frames on our list, it’s excellent for lots of activities, but we love it for cycling because of its generous coverage. This is a 6-base frame with just enough wrap for the wind to slide right off, and temples that allow the perfect amount of airflow to prevent fogging. But the lenses do most of the work here, which are also interchangeable! The Leadout is equipped with SMITH’s proprietary PivLock™ interchangeable lens system, making it the only full-rimmed frame on our list with such technology. It offers ChromaPop™ photochromic lenses, plus a bonus low-light amber lens for dusk lighting. It’s also prescription ready!
Not only does the Leadout PivLock offer great protection, it’s also impressively lightweight and comfortable. They’ll stay fixed on your face for hours, and the lens change system is ideal for swapping on the go. The Leadout PivLock is designed to fit perfectly under SMITH helmets, but we’ve found it works great with most any helmet brand.
You might read reviews about the lens change system being tricky, but once you figure it out, it isn't a problem. Otherwise, we don't really have any cons for the Leadout Pivlock. You can opt for the Tifosi Dolomite 2.0 at a lower price point, but it doesn't have a lens change system and it's smaller in size.
SMITH Leadout Pivlock Cycling Sunglasses with Photochromic Clear to Gray Lenses
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PROS
- Excellent coverage
- Casual style that isn't too sporty
- Lightweight
- Full-rim interchangeable lenses
- Rx-able
CONS
- Tricky lens change system
- Potential option: Tifosi Dolomite 2.0 (it's smaller, though)
Oakley Plazma
Men's Medium, Women's Medium
Oakley goes against the grain in multiple ways with the Plazma, making it one of the most functional and bold frames on our best cycling sunglasses of 2023 list. We’ll talk about the shape first, which is pretty unconventional and yet totally practical. The Plazma follows the natural shape of your eye socket and has one of the best lens heights for when you’re in the drops. It sits nice and high, so you won’t be looking over the top. With more lens and less frame, you get extraordinary wind protection and field of view without bulky temples. Its clean, modern design is aerodynamic and gives it a shape that makes zero contact with most headwear. The Plazma is also one of the grippiest frames you can find! With a ton of textured Unobtanium™ on the nose and all over the lower half of the temples, this frame does not move!
One of the best parts? It’s Rx-able! That’s right, an 8-base frame that can even hold progressives. It’s also durable, lightweight, and gives you a plethora of lens tech to choose from for pristine cycling optics.
The biggest “con” is highly subjective, which is the Plazma’s eccentric style. You might love it, or hate it! Depending on your head shape, the temples can bow a bit, too, and create a bit of a gap. The wrap design can be a bit limiting for stronger prescriptions. However, Oakley can still handle most prescriptions for PRIZM™ lenses on the Plazma. We think it’s a fair price for the quality and performance you get.
Oakley Plazma Cycling Sunglasses with PRIZM Road Lenses
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PROS
- Beefy grip!
- Amazing wind coverage
- Generous lens height
- Rx-able
- Seamless helmet fit
CONS
- Aggressive style
- Temples can bow
- Potential option: Bollé Chimera
100% Hypercraft
Men's XL, Women's XL
We promised that our best cycling sunglasses of 2023 picks would have something for everyone, and our list wouldn’t be complete without the 100% Hypercraft. It’s on the larger side, so this one will be limited to the big noggins. This frame is light as a feather! And let’s be honest, it’s one of the raddest looking shields out there. More than just a pretty face, the Hypercraft backs up its minimalistic design with equal parts protection and performance. It’s virtually all lens, with a completely rimless design that makes it feel like you’re wearing nothing. Once you pick up the speed, however, you’ll feel it’s superb wind protection. Scoops on the top and bottom of the shield keep it nice and ventilated, so you won’t get any fogging even on hot and humid days. We love its wide, uninterrupted field of view and HiPER® lens technology. The lens change system is also one of the easiest, and it comes with a clear bonus shield.
We’d say the one drawback for the Hypercraft is that the nose bridge can be a bit tight for certain faces. The grip material is harder than on other frames, so that can get uncomfortable on longer rides. It’s quite durable, but its thin design might feel flimsy to some. And of course, it’s a shield, so it’s not available in prescription.
100% Hypercraft Cycling Sunglasses with HiPER Red Multilayer Lenses
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PROS
- Most lightweight
- Superb wind coverage
- Great anti-fog lens
- Easy change lens system
CONS
- Nose bridge is tight for some
- Not Rx-able
- Nothing quite similar to it
What to Look for When Buying Cycling Sunglasses
If you noticed any themes in our list of the best sunglasses for cycling, you’re onto us! We look for certain qualities when rating a frame, and you should, too. Cyclists have unique needs when it comes to eyewear, and the frames we chose for our lineup beat the standard in at least one of the areas below. Check out our quick list of what to look for when buying cycling sunglasses.
Coverage
Wind, sunlight, bugs, debris—cyclists need protection in a pair of glasses. The two main ways to do this are with a shield lens or a wrap-style frame. Shields are fantastic, but they don’t work with prescriptions. Bummer! But don’t worry, you can still get exceptional coverage with or without prescription lenses in a 6-base or 8-base frame.
Ventilation
Just as important as coverage is proper ventilation in your cycling sunglasses. Wrap frames are made to block out the elements, but the enclosed design can make your lenses fog up if it doesn’t allow any airflow. How much airflow is up to you! It will vary from frame to frame, but you should look for venting on everything from the lenses themselves, to the nose bridge, to the temples.
Grip Material
Cycling involves movement and sweat, so the last thing you need is slippery eyewear. Grip material keeps your frames locked into place, and you can typically find it wherever the frame touches your head. Look for it on the temples, but especially the nose pads. Lots of brands have their own rubberized grip, like Oakley’s Unobtanium™ material, which is sweat-activated!
Durability
Durability in cycling sunglasses comes down to one thing: material. Cyclists need materials that are strong and lightweight, but also flexible. You should definitely keep metal frames and glass lenses at home. Instead, go with materials like nylon, Grilamid® TR-90, and Oakley's O Matter™ that are comfortable and can withstand weather and potential mishaps. Make sure your lenses are impact-resistant with materials like polycarbonate or Trivex. Both give superior optical clarity and can handle a tumble or fall without risking eye injury.
Helmet Compatibility
This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s pretty easy to overlook! If you wear sunglasses with traditional bent temples while cycling, you'll be in for a surprise after about 30 minutes. Bent or “skull” temples create uncomfortable pressure points under helmets that can be a real headache (literally). Look for cycling sunglasses that have straight-back or nearly straight temples. They fit seamlessly under your helmet and are usually thinner for more comfort.
Lens Tech
Lastly, quality lens tech adds to your overall safety and enjoyment. Most cycling frames come with contrast-enhancing lenses, which sharpen your view of oncoming road or terrain changes—even potential obstacles. Rose, copper, and brown lenses wake up your surroundings and make details “pop,” and can even add contrast to grayed out conditions for road cycling. You can’t go wrong with Oakley PRIZM™, SMITH ChromaPop, or 100% HiPER® lenses for your cycling sunglasses. For more on choosing the right lens tech, check out our Cycling Sunglasses Lens Color Guide.
Shop the Best Sunglasses for Cycling Online at SportRx
At SportRx, we offer more than just the best sunglasses for cycling online. We also offer the friendliest, easiest, and most reliable shopping experience you can find. If you have specific vision needs or a special request, we’ll do everything we can to make sure you have the best eyewear for your needs. Just reach out to any of our helpful Sports Opticians with your questions! Contact us and we’ll be sure to respond.
You can also feel great about ordering your cycling sunglasses when every order is backed by our See Better Guarantee. That means you get 45 days to try your new eyewear, and if you’re not totally satisfied, simply let us know and we’ll set up a full refund, return, or exchange. We even cover shipping.
Get the best cycling sunglasses online at SportRx today!
Cycling Sunglasses FAQs
Should I use polarized sunglasses for cycling?
Getting polarized lenses for cycling sunglasses is a personal preference that mostly depends on your riding environment. For example, if you bike along bodies of water or in sunny, reflective environments, they’re excellent for blocking glare. They might not be so helpful with spotting an oil slick in the road, though. The other concern is reading cycle computers. This can be an issue depending on the age and quality of your computer and the polarized lenses. You can read more about this on our polarized cycling lenses blog.
What are the best prescription cycling sunglasses?
Eyewear brands continue to step up their game and provide more options for prescription cycling sunglasses, but there are a few that continue to come out on top year after year. The Oakley Flak 2.0 XL and Rudy Project Rydon are two of the best prescription cycling sunglasses you can find. For high Rx, we also recommend the Rudy Project Rydon + Rx Dock. You can see the complete list of our top picks for Rx cycling glasses in our Best Prescription Cycling Sunglasses blog.
What are the best lens colors for cycling sunglasses?
The best lens colors for cycling are warm tinted lenses that are rose, copper, brown, or amber colored. These are the most contrast-enhancing colors that help cyclists spot changes in the terrain as well as potential bumps or snags in the road. We do not recommend grey or cool tinted lens colors for cycling, since they minimize contrast and can often be too dark. Get more lens color and technology suggestions in our Cycling Sunglasses Lens Guide.
