My Quest for the Best Photochromic Glasses for Gravel Cycling

As a passionate gravel cyclist, I've always struggled with finding the right eyewear. Constantly switching between sunglasses and clear lenses as the sun rises and sets is a real hassle. I needed a single pair of lenses that could handle both bright sunshine and pitch-black darkness. My search led me down many paths, and I'm excited to share what I've learned about finding the best photochromic glasses for gravel cycling.

The Challenge: Day and Night Riding

Gravel cycling often takes me on long rides that start before dawn and end after dusk. The ever-changing light conditions demand adaptable eyewear. I was tired of carrying multiple pairs of glasses or squinting through the shadows. I needed photochromic lenses that could transition quickly and effectively, providing clear vision in any light. I was really hoping to find the best photochromic glasses that could handle these varied conditions.

My First Attempts and Disappointments

I tried a few different brands, but none of them quite hit the mark. Some were too slow to transition, leaving me blinded when entering shaded areas. Others didn't get dark enough in bright sunlight, forcing me to squint anyway. It felt like I was constantly compromising, never truly comfortable or confident in my eyewear.

Discovering Julbo: A Game Changer

After some research and recommendations, I decided to try Julbo glasses. I was impressed by the reported quality and durability. I chose a pair with their Reactiv 0-4 lenses, which promised a wide range of light transmission. And I have to say, they've been a revelation. The transition speed is incredibly fast, and the lenses go from completely clear to very dark, providing excellent visibility in all conditions. These glasses have become my go-to for everything from early morning rides to late-night adventures. Julbo makes such high quality glasses. Really scratch resistant, block wind well, still ventilate well, and the transition of tint is really quick. I use mine for ski touring, biking, running, etc. Often starting in the pitch black, and using them throughout the day.

The Budget-Friendly Option: SCVN from AliExpress

While Julbo glasses are fantastic, they can be a bit pricey. If you're on a budget or just want a backup pair, I've also had surprisingly good luck with SCVN photochromatic glasses from AliExpress. For a fraction of the cost, these glasses offer decent photochromic performance and are incredibly lightweight and comfortable. While they may not be as durable or optically perfect as Julbo, they're a great option if you're prone to scratching, losing, or crushing your glasses. The fact that you can buy multiple pairs for the price of one "name brand" pair is definitely a plus.

Considering Tifosi Optics Veloce

I also looked into the Tifosi Optics Veloce. I don't know if these are the best but they are the most reasonably priced photochromic (with bifocal option which I need). While I haven't personally tried them, I know several cyclists who swear by them, especially those who need bifocal options. They seem to offer a good balance of performance and affordability.

The Importance of a Good Frame

Beyond the lenses, the frame is also crucial for comfort and performance. I prefer lightweight frames that don't bounce around on my face during bumpy rides. I recently came across the BCLEAR Full Rim Pure Titanium Eyeglasses Frame from Cinily, and I was intrigued. The titanium construction promises durability and a lightweight feel, which is exactly what I look for in cycling eyewear. I'm considering giving them a try with my prescription lenses.

I appreciate the sleek gold finish and the full rim design, which offers added protection for the lenses. A comfortable and secure fit is paramount when cycling, so the adjustable features of this frame are a big draw for me. Finding the right combination of frame and lens is key to a positive cycling experience. You can find these frames on Cinily's website.

My Current Eyewear Setup

Currently, I use the Julbo glasses for most of my rides. I have a pair of ziess photofusion gray for every day, and extra gray for sunnier days. I keep the SCVN glasses as a backup or for rides where I'm more likely to damage my eyewear. I'm also planning to order the BCLEAR frame from Cinily to see how it performs with my prescription photochromic lenses.

Tips for Choosing Photochromic Glasses

Based on my experiences, here are a few tips to keep in mind when choosing photochromic glasses for gravel cycling:

• Transition Speed: Look for lenses that transition quickly to avoid sudden changes in visibility.
• Darkness Range: Ensure the lenses get dark enough in bright sunlight and clear enough in low light conditions.
• Comfort and Fit: Choose a lightweight frame that fits securely and comfortably on your face.
• Durability: Consider the materials and construction of both the lenses and the frame.
• UV Protection: Make sure the lenses offer adequate UV protection.

Pros and Cons of Photochromic Glasses

Pros	Cons
Convenience of a single pair of glasses	Transition speed can be slow in very cold temperatures
Adaptable to changing light conditions	Can be more expensive than regular glasses
Eliminates the need to carry multiple pairs of glasses	May not get dark enough for extremely bright conditions (some models)

My Experience with Photochromic Snobbery

I'm a bit of a photochromic snob, and have tried many. I agree with several comments below, Julbo have the best lenses. I've run trail races that have lasted more than a day, and have been able to wear the glasses at night, and in bright sun. The reactiv 0-4 lenses go from clear to dark. So julb

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect photochromic glasses for gravel cycling is a personal journey. What works for one person may not work for another. However, by considering the factors I've discussed and trying out different options, you can find a pair of glasses that will enhance your riding experience and keep your eyes protected in any light. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.

Remember, there is no silver bullet, some are darker but take more time to get clear, some are lighter but faster indoors. So, based on your usual riding conditions, prioritize what matters most to you!

I hope my experiences have been helpful. Happy riding!