The right motorcycle glasses or goggles give you comfort, durability, safety, and optical clarity. We know it can be confusing to determine which pair is best for you, so continue with us as we break down the guide to buying motorcycle sunglasses and goggles. And then check out our Top Motorcycle Glasses to find your ideal pair!
What to Look for in Motorcycle Glasses and Goggles
1. Frame Technology
A. Glasses vs Goggles
B. Coverage
C. Durability
D. Temples/Straps
E. Foam
F. 8 Base Wrap
2. Lens Technology
A. Lens Correction
B. Impact Resistance
C. Lens Tints
D. Transitions
E. Polarized Lenses
F. Mirrored Lenses
G. Lens Coatings
3. Shop Motorcycle Glasses at SportRx
What to Look for in Motorcycle Glasses and Goggles
Frame Technology
Glasses vs Goggles
Choosing between motorcycle glasses or goggles is based on your personal preference and riding style. If you're more of a casual cruiser, motorcycle sunglasses with foam will do the job of blocking wind and keeping your vision comfortable. On the other hand, if you're getting ready to head out on a multi-day road trip, windproof motorcycle goggles will provide the maximum amount of protection and frame security.
The type of helmet you have can also determine whether you wear glasses or goggles. A full-face helmet typically requires glasses, as goggles can be too bulky to fit properly beneath a face shield. If you have an open-face helmet, goggles will be much more effective at shielding your eyes from wind and staying firmly in place.
Also make sure to consider the climate. Motorcycle sunglasses are just fine in a mild or hot climate. The frames allow for more breathe-ability and won't fog up as easily as sealed goggles. However, if you're expecting rain or snow, or live in a place conducive to extreme weather, goggles might be the better option. Their seal keeps your eyes protected from wind, dust, and anything else that disrupts your ability to see clearly.
Coverage
You’ll want to consider your helmet when it comes to coverage. If your helmet is open-faced, your glasses or goggles will be your main source of protection from wind, dust, and other debris. You also want a wraparound shape that conforms to the curve of your head for full coverage.
Durability
Motorcycle sunglasses and goggles need to be durable in case you take a nasty spill or if debris flies up and hits the lenses. Look for sturdy construction and a frame made out of nylon or an injection-molded plastic, which gives the goggles more durability than you'd find in standard sunglasses. Safety ratings (such as ANSI) are also a guarantee of a durable build.
Temples/Straps
Straight and slim temples fit best under a helmet. When you get your sunglasses, test them under your helmet to see how comfortable the fit is. For long rides, you don't want your frames digging into the sides of your head. If you ordered goggles, check to see how the strap fits around the back and how easily you can remove them.
Foam
When glasses come with face foam, we look at several factors. One factor is the ease in which the foam is removable and replaceable. The second factor is whether the foam is an open or closed-cell. Removable face foam is a great feature to have if your ride is short and hot or if you're looking for sunglasses you can wear both on and off the bike. You also want the foam to be easily replaceable since it's going to get pretty sweaty and dirty. Along with that, open-cell foam isn't as durable but is easier to replace. Closed-cell foam, despite holding up longer, can be difficult to replace.
8 Base Wrap
An 8-base wrap complements motorcycle glasses with foam. Eyecups require a contoured fit for a complete seal, so wrap-around designs are the best frame shape to get proper grip. They also create a wider field of vision and unobstructed peripherals so you get the best and most complete view of the road.
Lens Technology
Lens Correction
Prescription goggles or sunglasses are the perfect way to make the most of every ride. While contacts are great for some things, you definitely don't want to deal with dry, itchy, or blurry contacts while driving a motorcycle. Experience both clarity and comfort with single vision, bifocal, or progressive lenses in your motorcycle goggles or glasses.
Impact Resistance
Your lenses need to be impact-resistant so avoid glass lenses as those can shatter easily. Instead, opt for polycarbonate or Trivex, both of which are shatterproof. You can also look for lenses with an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) certification or lenses that are Ballistic-rated. ANSI-rated eyewear passes rigorous safety testing to meet high-impact and industrial safety standards. Ballistic-rated eyewear offers a military-grade level of protection that surpasses typical civilian safety glasses. In addition to meeting all ANSI requirements, ballistic eyewear must also pass high-impact fragmentation standards—this is the highest level of protection available. It’s important to mention prescription lenses are not able to be made up to Ballistic standard, but can be made to ANSI safety rated standards.
Lens Tints
There are several base lens tints to consider, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Clear tints are best for night riding or in heavily shaded areas. But if you're riding in bright sunlight, you're going to find yourself squinting. Also consider yellow lenses for night riding, as they enhance detail and contrast in low light environments.
Grey lenses offer true color perception to minimize distortions. These tints work best in bright, direct sunlight and are great for everyday wear. The downside is less contrast, so if you're expecting a rough ride, it might be harder to spot obstacles in the road. Brown and rose lenses offer that increased contrast you'll need to enhance your depth perception—plus they have the advantage of working in most types of weather. On the other hand, if the sun is particularly bright, you might still be squinting.
Transitions
Transitions adapt to changing lighting conditions by darkening their tint. If you're expecting a lot of long rides or like to take your glasses straight from the bike into work, Transitions are definitely worth it.
There are three different types of Transitions lenses:
There are three different types of Transitions lenses:
- Transitions Signature: These lenses are completely clear indoors and at night, and turn a medium tint outdoors. These fulfill the needs of most everyday glasses-wearers.
- Transitions XTRActive: Our top pick for motorcycling—or any outdoor activity—the XTRActive goes from virtually clear indoors to completely dark in the sun, easily transitioning into a true pair of sunglasses. Additionally, it's the fastest and darkest of the Transitions, and can handle any lighting condition.
- Transitions Drivewear: The Drivewear lens is optimized for driving, changing from a lighter, olive-green tint to a dark brown one. Unlike the other Transitions, it changes both color and tint to protect against any type of sunlight. It's also fully polarized.
Polarized Lenses
Polarized lenses are great for blocking glare from shiny surfaces such as water or other vehicles, but can have a negative effect on depth perception and make it harder to read digital displays. If you like to ride on the freeway, by the ocean, or around other people, consider a polarized lens to improve your vision. If you like to ride on dirt or at night, a polarized lens is unnecessary.
Mirrored Lenses
Mirrored lenses are a great option both for looking cool and improving vision on sunny days. By reflecting light away from the lens, you're able to see better in bright conditions.
Lens Coatings
There are multiple types of coatings available for your motorcycle glasses or goggles to help provide a clear and enjoyable ride. Anti-Reflective (AR) coating makes glasses look almost invisible and deflect unwanted light. AR coating also has the added benefit of reducing glare from headlights and roads. An anti-fog coating on the inside of the lens helps to minimize fogging, which can be handy if you tend to sweat a lot or frequently ride in cold weather. Because this coating can't be applied with AR, however, we suggest focusing on a better fit and good ventilation instead of relying solely on that coating.
A hydrophobic coating is usually used on the front end of the lens to repel water—this makes your sunglasses or goggles great for riding in the rain. Oleophobic coatings repel things like dust and oil and they also reduce smudging from fingerprints.
Shop Motorcycle Glasses and Goggles at SportRx
Need motorcycle sunglasses or goggles? Done. When you shop with us, you’ll find video guides and tooltips throughout the build process as you customize the perfect pair. An answer to all your questions is at your fingertips, and if you want to chat with an expert, contact us. We’ll put you in touch with one of our friendly in-house opticians who can help you build your prescription motorcycle sunglasses or goggles.
Ditch risky online shopping with the See Better Guarantee. Try your sunglasses or goggles for 45 days. If you’re not satisfied, send them back. Get a full refund, exchange, or credit towards a better pair. And return shipping? Covered. Get your pair of motorcycle sunglasses or goggles at SportRx today!
Top Motorcycle Glasses
Riding safely and in style makes a day on your motorcycle that much better. At SportRx, we understand the need for clear visibility and eye protection while you're on the road. Join us as we highlight our picks for the Top Motorcycle Riding Glasses! And don’t forget to check out our Motorcycle Glasses Buyer’s Guide (link to new Motorcycle Glasses Buyer’s Guide blog) to know what to look for when picking out the perfect pair.
What to Look for in Motorcycle Glasses and Goggles
1. Top Motorcycle Glasses
A.Oakley Gascan
B. Oakley Double Edge
C. Oakley SI Shocktube Ballistic
D. Wiley X Gravity
E. Wiley X Airrage
F. Wiley X Boss
G. Wiley X Romer III
H. Wiley X P-17
I. Wiley X Peak
J. Wiley X Sleek
K. Wiley X SG-1
L. Wiley X Weekender
M. 7eye Churada
N. 7eye Panhead
O. 7eye Briza
P. 7eye Bora
Q. 7eye Cape
R. Ray-Ban Daddy-O
S. Native Eyewear Kodiak
U. Harley Davidson Genera Bling
2. Shop Motorcycle Glasses at SportRx
Top Motorcycle Glasses
Oakley Gascan
Oakley Gascan Sunglasses
Shop Oakley Gascan
The Oakley Gascan has been a staple for years. The high wrap delivers a superior peripheral field of vision and it has a 6-base curvature, making it one of the best prescription sunglasses for motorcycle riding.
Oakley Double Edge
Oakley Double Edge Sunglasses
Shop Oakley Double Edge
With the Oakley Double Edge, you’ll get the best Oakley tech. They have lightweight O Matter™ construction and Unobtainium® rubber grip that gets tackier when wet. Additionally, if you get PRIZM polarized lenses, these lenses block 99% of glare and are available in prescription.
Oakley SI Shocktube Ballistic
Oakley SI Shocktube Ballistic Sunglasses
Shop Oakley SI Shocktube Ballistic
The Shocktube is an all-around great motorcycling frame thanks to its full wrap and lip on the inner frame for wind protection. With its ballistic rating, the Shocktube protects you from anything that gets kicked up from the road, keeping your eyes safe.
Wiley X Gravity
Wiley X Gravity Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X Gravity
The Wiley X Gravity features a removable Facial Cavity™ Seal for ultimate wind protection and versatility. It has a sleek design that fits comfortably under virtually all open face helmets. When worn with clear lenses, they are a favorite for night riding. The Gravity can also convert from glasses to goggles, and are available in prescription.
Wiley X Airrage
Wiley X Airrage Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X Airrage
A favorite for those with open face helmets, the Wiley X Airrage has a compact and stylish design. They can convert from glasses to goggles and are a top pick for night riding. They are available with contrast-enhancing CAPTIVATE™ lens technology, which you can also get with a prescription.
Wiley X Boss
Wiley X Boss Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X Boss
The large lens and bigger frame size of the Wiley X Boss are ideal for those with a bigger head. A notched nose bridge encourages air flow, so the Selenite lenses stay fog-free. Plus, the lenses are shatterproof and are available in prescription with CAPTIVATE™ lens tech.
Wiley X Breach
Wiley X Breach Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X Breach
The Wiley X Breach features the removable Facial Cavity™ Seal, which blocks wind, fine dust, irritants, as well as peripheral light. Its unique open cell design creates a comfortable and plush feeling when in contact with your skin. Available in prescription, these glasses will keep your ride crystal clear.
Wiley X Romer III
Wiley X Romer III Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X Romer III
Having passed the most strenuous safety tests, the Romer III boasts a ballistic-rating that provides a military-grade level of protection. They have a rubber nose piece and textured temples for maximum hold. For non-prescription lenses, you have the option of getting gray lenses for day riding, clear lenses for night riding, and a third light rust lens. Prescription is available, but not with the interchangeable lenses.
Wiley X P-17
Wiley X P-17 Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X P-17
The Wiley X P-17 is for those who like to switch from cruising to zooming. It has a T-strap and rubber grip for adaptable security to stay on no matter how fast you are going. And they are ANSI Z87-approved with an 8-base wrap for ultimate safety.
Wiley X Peak
Wiley X Peak Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X Peak
Featuring a squarer lens, the Wiley X Peak is a versatile frame that looks good on and off the bike. This lens shape plus the 8-base wrap proves to be a unique design. They are also available with contrast-enhancing CAPTIVATE™ lens technology.
Wiley X Saint
Wiley X Saint Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X Saint
The Wiley X Saint glasses come with clear or light rust lenses so you have full vision at night. The frames are made of TR-90 material for premium flexibility and strength, and feature grip on the nose pad and temples. They are also available in prescription.
Wiley X Sleek
Wiley X Sleek Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X Sleek
A favorite amongst female motorcycle riders, the Wiley X Sleek has a wrap-around design that provides proper coverage from excess light, wind, and fine debris. An anti-fog lens coating keeps your vision clear, while the removable foam Facial Cavity™ Seal creates additional eye protection.
Wiley X SG-1
Wiley X SG-1 Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X SG-1
Easily converted from goggles to glasses, the 8-base frame of the Wiley X SG-1 includes an optional strap and removable temples. They feature an interchangeable lens system, so you can easily swap lenses based on lighting conditions. This frame is ballistic-rated for maximum protection.
Wiley X Weekender
Wiley X Weekender Sunglasses
Shop Wiley X Weekender
The prescription-ready Wiley X Weekender is fashionable and a top female motorcycle rider choice. The ANSI X87-2 safety rating ensures impact-resistance, while the hard lens coating protects against scratches and abrasions. An anti-fog coating reduces blurriness, and the bent temples provide additional frame security. The prescription-ready Wiley X Weekender is fashionable and a top female motorcycle rider choice. The ANSI X87-2 safety rating ensures impact-resistance, while the hard lens coating protects against scratches and abrasions. An anti-fog coating reduces blurriness, and the bent temples provide additional frame security.
7eye Churada
7eye Churada Sunglasses
Shop 7eye Churada
The low-profile design of the 7eye Churada makes it a perfect fit on those with small to medium faces and works well with a variety of open face helmets. Grip material keeps it in place and AirShield® Eyecup Technology creates a complete seal from outdoor elements. This unique foam gasket is made from closed-cell foam, which is highly moisture-resistant and durable.
7eye Panhead
7eye Panhead Sunglasses
Shop 7eye Panhead
The 7eye Panhead feature photochromic lenses, which are darker during bright weather and become clear at night. They have an ANSI certification for lens durability against strong impact and work with open face helmets. The 7eye Panhead is available in prescription, and is a large to an extra-large fit which make it perfect for bigger heads.
7eye Briza
7eye Briza Sunglasses
Shop 7eye Briza
Designed just for women, the 7eye Briza features both performance technology and style. This ANSI Z87.1-rated frame utilizes AirShield® Eyecup Technology to create a complete seal around your eyes. The patented ventilation system keeps you cool and the closed cell design resists sweat, weather, and grime.
7eye Bora
7eye Bora Sunglasses
Shop 7eye Bora
The lens shape of the 7eye Bora provides extended downward visibility, while the rubber temple grips keep the frames secure. The Airshield® face foam resists sweat and oil, and the SPF100 technology also blocks out wind and dust for a comfortable and safe ride.
Ray-Ban Daddy-O
Ray-Ban Daddy-O Sunglasses
Shop Ray-Ban Daddy-O
The 6-base wrap of the Ray-Ban Daddy-O gives you wind protection and coverage. Great for both on and off the bike, the Daddy-O has etched rubber tips so it’s sure to bring style everywhere you go. It’s also a top pick for motorcycle prescription glasses.
Native Eyewear Kodiak
Native Eyewear Kodiak Sunglasses
Shop Native Eyewear Kodiak
The Native Eyewear Kodiak has co-injected Rhyno-Tuff® Air construction which is tough but ultra-lightweight. The browline ventilation system draws out warm air for fog-free vision. And the Cushinol™ rubber nose pads and temple tips provide long lasting comfort.
Harley Davidson Blaze 2.0
Harley Davidson Blaze 2.0 Glasses
Shop Harley Davidson Blaze 2.0
Built for the open road, the Harley-Davidson Blaze 2.0 delivers top-tier wind and debris protection with its wrap-around design and removable foam eyecup. Rubber nose pads and temples keep the frame secure, even at high speeds, while the included strap adds extra confidence for long highway stretches. It’s a rugged, comfortable choice for riders who need prescription-ready performance on the road.
Harley Davidson Genera Bling
Harley Davidson Genera Bling Glasses
Shop Harley Davidson Genera Bling
The top-rated women’s-specific frame, the Harley-Davidson Genera Bling, delivers performance and style for the ride. Its wrap-around shape offers aerodynamic coverage, while a removable foam eyecup blocks wind and debris. Rubber temples and an included strap ensure a secure fit at high speeds. Finished with a bejeweled Bar & Shield Logo plaque, it strikes the perfect balance between bold and feminine, all with authentic Harley look.
Shop Motorcycle Glasses at SportRx
Need motorcycle sunglasses or goggles? Done. When you shop with us, you’ll find video guides and tooltips throughout the build process as you customize the perfect pair. An answer to all your questions is at your fingertips, and if you want to chat with an expert, contact us. We’ll put you in touch with one of our friendly in-house opticians who can help you build your prescription motorcycle sunglasses or goggles.
Ditch risky online shopping with the See Better Guarantee. Try your sunglasses or goggles for 45 days. If you’re not satisfied, send them back. Get a full refund, exchange, or credit towards a better pair. And return shipping? Covered. Get your pair of motorcycle sunglasses or goggles at SportRx today!
