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Clear Vision for Every Terrain: Find the Right Cycling Glasses
The new biking season is here – and with it comes a renewed desire for long rides, intense training, or relaxed spins on pavement and gravel. But when lighting changes, the sun gets in your eyes, or you're speeding down a trail, that’s when top-quality cycling glasses really show what they’re made of.
Why you should never ride without sports glasses
Cycling glasses should be a staple in every rider’s gear. They reliably protect your eyes from UV rays, which can cause long-term damage to the retina, as well as from wind, dust, and insects.
Just as important is the protection from glare and sudden changes in light – like when riding from sun into shade or dealing with low-angled sunlight. Quality eyewear minimizes visual strain, relieves your eyes, and ultimately boosts both your focus and enjoyment on the bike.
Even more crucial: the right lenses enhance your visual perception – making your ride safer, more responsive, and more relaxed.
>> Better protection, smoother riding: Discover cycling glasses
RIDESCAPE: Vision Tailored to Your Terrain
Shimano’s RIDESCAPE lenses are scientifically engineered to highlight the environmental features that matter most while riding. Instead of washed-out colors or overblown contrasts, you get precise, crisp vision – customized for road, gravel, forest trails, or bright sun.
They stand out thanks to impressive optical clarity and carefully chosen materials. The ultra-clear polyamide substrate ensures especially natural color reproduction. Combined with a low refractive index, it delivers razor-sharp, distortion-free vision.
At the same time, these lenses are exceptionally lightweight and durable – ideal for long rides in any condition.
A scratch-resistant coating and full UV400 protection guarantee lasting clarity and reliable eye safety.
- RD (Road): Enhances contrast on pavement and makes potholes more visible – ideal for high-speed road riders.
- GR (Gravel): Highlights differences between dirt and asphalt – perfect for gravel riders tackling varied surfaces.
- OR (Off-Road): Softens harsh light transitions between shadow and sun – optimal for mountain bikers and trail riders in dense terrain.
- ES (Extra Sunny): Reduces light transmission in intense sunlight – recommended for summer rides with high UV levels.
- CL (Cloudy): High light transmission for overcast days or dusk – ideal for evening rides or diffuse lighting.
- HC (High Contrast): Cuts glare and boosts color perception – helpful for riders needing quick reaction times.
These lenses aren’t just a gimmick – they enhance your reaction time, reduce eye fatigue, and help you maintain full visibility in every situation.
>> Learn More About RIDESCAPE Technology
Which glasses suit your riding style?
The S-Phyre SL is built for performance-driven road cyclists. With its nearly frameless design, weighing under 24 grams, and excellent fit, it delivers maximum aerodynamics at high speeds. Paired with RIDESCAPE RD or HC lenses, it ensures crystal-clear vision on pavement, enhances contrast, and helps you spot imperfections early – perfect for long rides and racing.
The Pulsar is a top choice for trail or gravel riders who value flexibility. Its convertible frame switches between full and half-frame styles, giving you options in terms of both weight and look. With RIDESCAPE OR lenses or a photochromic version, it’s highly adaptable to changing light – great for mountain bikers or touring riders navigating sun-dappled forest trails.
If versatility and everyday usability are key, the Equinox is your go-to. It offers a wide field of view, effective ventilation, and superior comfort – whether you’re on pavement, gravel, or light off-road paths. Paired with RIDESCAPE GR or CL, it’s ideal for riders frequently transitioning between surfaces or riding in cloudy or low-light conditions. A reliable all-rounder for active cyclists.
Conclusion: Good vision is more than just comfort
Better vision equals safer rides. With RIDESCAPE, Shimano takes cycling eyewear to the next level – through technological innovation, precisely tuned lenses, and thoughtful comfort features. Especially on challenging routes, in shifting light, or during long sessions, this can make all the difference.
>> Complete your cycling kit with Shimano apparel