Test: We tested over a dozen photochromic cycling glasses on the trail. Not only the lenses but also the frames had to prove their worth. We also paid close attention to good workmanship and a secure fit.
Who hasn't experienced this? You're speeding along a sun-drenched country lane, your eyes narrowed to slits. The next moment, you plunge into a dense forest and feel like you're driving into a wall of black. This abrupt change between light and dark isn't just annoying, it's a real safety hazard. The industry promises a solution with an almost magical technology: photochromic, or self-tinting, lenses. A lens for all situations, adapting to every light condition like a chameleon.
But is this really the holy grail for us mountain bikers, or just an expensive compromise? Does the technology live up to its promises on paper? And does the performance justify the sometimes hefty price tag?
We wanted to know for sure, so we tested over a dozen current photochromic glasses. From a great value option for under €80 to a high-end designer piece for over €250, we included everything. We put the glasses through their paces on dusty trails, pushed them to their limits in dark forests, and observed their reaction speed under controlled conditions.
Some of our findings were expected, while others were genuinely surprising. We can already reveal this much: the sheer speed of the tinting process is only half the battle. One of our most important findings was how often a top-quality lens is let down by a mediocre frame. Furthermore, we uncovered significant differences in the tint range – the so-called VLT range – which determines whether glasses truly function from dusk to the blazing midday sun.
Which models boast a rock-solid frame? Which glasses offer the widest field of vision and the best wearing comfort? And which candidate offers the best overall package and price?
You'll find the answers to all these questions and all the details about the test candidates in our comprehensive comparison test – all the individual tests will be published in the coming weeks. So it's worth checking back regularly!