Need new sunglasses for triathlon?
It is important to note that the qualities that make a great pair of triathlon sunglasses are often the same qualities that make a great pair of running and cycling sunglasses, though triathlon sunglasses need to be able to do both.
See also: Best Cycling Glasses: eyewear that blends fashion with functional
We have put together a list of the best triathlon sunglasses, highlighting what each one does best. Then we provide a helpful buyer’s guide, so you can find the triathlon glasses to suit your needs.
Best Triathlon Sunglasses of 2023
- Roka Matador
- Oakley Radar Ev
- Roka SL-1X
- Oakley EVZero Path
- 100% S3
- Roka TL-1
- Rudy Project Tralyx
- Smith Pivlock Arena Max
- Bolle Shifter
- Tifosi Davos
1. Roka Matador Ultra Lightweight Performance Sunglasses
The Roka Matador Ultralight Performance Sunglasses are a sophisticated blend of style, technology, and science.
With an impressive weight of only 26g for full frame glasses, these sunglasses provide sharp optics from any angle with their C3 7-base cylindrical lens. Plus, they come with ten different lenses: six for full sun, two for medium sun, one for low sun, and a photochromatic lens for variable conditions.
No doubt about it, the Matadors look great – but more importantly, they perform even better. I found the clarity extraordinary in bright sunshine and heavy rain alike, the 16% transmission rate Gold Mirror Lens providing comfortable visibility at all times.
The field of vision is also excellent; you won’t notice the edges of the frames while looking straight ahead, or when doing a shoulder check. And thanks to the low hinge design (V-Core temple), you can rest assured that your view won’t be obstructed if you’re tucked in either. Ventilation is top-notch as well, combined with anti-fog and hydrophobic coatings making it ideal for long rides and races on hot days.
On the downside, my fingerprints seemed to stick just as much as with other sunglasses – so unfortunately the ‘fingerprint-proof coating’ claim doesn’t quite hold up. Also, no spare lens or hard case comes with the purchase, which could be a letdown considering the price tag.
However, despite these minor drawbacks, the Roka Matador Ultralight Performance Sunglasses remain an excellent choice for cyclists who want lightweight performance without compromising on quality.
The combination of stylish good looks and reliable functionality make them an attractive option for anyone looking for a reliable pair of sunglasses. So why not give them a try? You won’t regret it!
2. Oakley Radar Ev
When it comes to sporting sunglasses companies, there are few that can match the quality or the reputation of Oakley which has long since been known as one of the premier manufacturers of sporting sunglasses.
Of course, this only makes sense considering Oakley’s history stretches back over 5 ½ decades and has always centered around providing the best sporting sunglasses experience possible.
That said, the brand is now one of the many owned by the Luxottica conglomerate and serves to form that company’s premiere sporting lineup.
That said, it does not seem to matter all too much in regards to the business structure as Oakley simply continues to impress, this time providing the best optical quality triathlon sunglasses, though the prestige of the brand has a tendency to inflate the cost as well.
Optical Quality
When it comes to the lenses used for triathlon sunglasses, the Oakley triathlon glasses do not provide what most would consider the best of protections.
This is not to suggest that the Oakley Radar Ev triathlon sunglasses are poor at protecting your eyes, especially considering they do come with 100-percent UV protection, but they do not come with some of the other protections that one would associate with the lenses like anti-scratch, anti-grease, or anti-dust.
Instead, the Oakley Radar Ev triathlon sunglasses aims to provide the best optical quality by using a patented HDO, or high-definition optics, technology.
Essentially, Oakley has found a way to provide nearly the same level of optical clarity and magnification through their thermoplastic lenses that you would expect to see from glass lenses without the risks otherwise involved with glass.
This leads to the Oakley Radar Ev triathlon sunglasses providing some of the truest accuracy with far less distortion than you normally see from even well-manufactured thermoplastic lenses.
Proprietary Material
Beyond the patented manufacturing process that the Oakley Radar Ev triathlon sunglasses uses to provide the best optical quality that we saw, Oakley also makes it a point to offer proprietary solutions to age-old problems as befits a company of their stature and experience.
One of the biggest improvements towards this end is the development of O Matter, a proprietary blend of thermoplastics that offers exceptional torsional strength while also being among the lightest plastics available.
This helps prevent the Oakley Radar Ev triathlon sunglasses from being damaged as well as from causing any unnecessary fatigue. To reinforce this focus on comfort, the normally-rubber tips of high-end sporting sunglasses has been infused with another proprietary blend that Oakley calls Unobtanium, itself an inside joke to a popular television show.
Regardless, this Unobtanium allows the Oakley Radar Ev triathlon sunglasses to not only repel excess water in general but to actually use that first bit of sweat to trigger a catalytic response making the Oakley Radar Ev triathlon sunglasses stay in place even better.
3. Roka SL-1X
ROKA created its SL Series for those who want a wide and unobstructed field of vision and maximum ventilation.
Every athlete, like the previous model, can find a perfect fit since the glasses have titanium core wires, And, the glasses have GEKO technology for the best retention.
The C3 lenses and lens coatings have simple lens interchangeability. The frame is smaller compared to the other model and is best suited for smaller or youth-sized faces.
The SL Series was specifically designed not just for sporty-people but also for those who race triathlons, compete in time trials, and train hard.
The main difference between the two glasses is lens offerings. Both offer the HC Octane Mirror lens.
The HC Fusion Mirror lens transmits 17% of light and is an extremely versatile high-contrast lens that also has excellent infrared protection. This is best suited for bright hand sunny conditions and can be used on the trails.
The HC ION Mirror lens transmits 40% of light and provides high contrast in changing light and overcast conditions. It enhances clarity and green colors. It would make a great companion if you decide to trail run after a ride. It is also a great option if for early morning and late-night training and commuting.
The Dark Artic Mirror lens transmits 9% of light and is an all-around neutral-colors. It keeps you comfortable and protected on the road. It’s best used for right and sunny condition in a variety of environments.
The Carbon lens transmits 12% of light and is an all-around neutral-color lens that keeps your eyes protected in bright and sunny conditions.
Triathletes who have bought these glasses like it because they do a great job of adding contrast to a bright sunny day on the road. They actually stay put on cyclists’ faces and rarely do they need to push the glasses up. The ventilation works well and cyclists didn’t have a problem with the lenses fogging up.
I’d recommend this pair of glasses to those who want a versatile pair that they can wear for multisport activities without worrying about the glasses falling off.
4. Oakley EVZero Path
The Oakley Evzero was designed for speed and engineered to be the multi-sport sunglass for training, running, cycling, and other uses. Compared to other Oakley models this one is the lightest O Matter frame and feature a rimless toric shield made of Plutonite for an unobstructed view.
If you have a smaller face, this Oakley model would be a good option to check out. This one features an Asian fit for people with higher cheekbones and a wider nose bridge. Of course, like other models, this one also has Unobtanium ear socks and nose pads to keep the glasses securely on your face even when you sweat.
This pair of Oakley cycling sunglasses only come in one type of lens: Prizm. This type of lens is best used for bright and medium light conditions. The color base for this lens is either green, purple, or blue. The green lens transmits 14% of light, the purple lens transmits 20% of light, and the blue lens transmits 12% of light.
Each lens dims the brightness and brings out the warm colors around you.
Figure out what type of weather condition you train and race most of the time. That should be the right type of lens for you. If you’re unsure talk to someone at a local bike store. They would recommend getting one or a couple of lenses.
Triathletes who have bought the lenses like it because it is extremely lightweight and is ideal for racing triathlons, bikes, biathlon, and even cross-country skiing (during the off-season).
The sunglasses provide good coverage for cyclist’s field of vision and side coverage from the sun’s glare, which is a plus. Cyclists also praise these glasses because they stay secure on their faces while on the bike.
I recommend these glasses if you train and race in only a few types of weather conditions. You don’t have as many lens options to interchange. This might be the right option for those who don’t need a lot of lenses.
5. 100% S3
The 100% S3 combines the standout features from the S2 and the iconic Speedcraft. With these glasses, you get an understated brow and the definitive vents that would be great for touring, multi-sport, and even the casual social ride.
I’ll keep this post short since most of the features mentioned in the previous post apply to this one.
But, what makes this one different from the Speedcraft models?
For one, the lenses are stronger against the elements you experience on the road. The lenses have the hydrophobic and oleophobic that repels the water, oil, and dirt from the lenses while you’re riding.
These glasses also have more options for the types of lenses you’re looking for. Or, if you need to change out your lenses mid-ride if you’re out all day on the bike. You have the option to buy the contrast-defining HiPER lens and the photochromic lens. Both are good options to have while riding.
The HiPER lens is 100% proprietary high-definition lens that ramps up contrast, colors and enhances details so you won’t run into a hole in the road. The lens filters sun rays so that it increases the detail and definition for better depth perception while you pedal out those miles.
The lens also sharpens your surroundings so you see more of what matters to you whether that be a tire tread or a patch of gravel. Of course, all of this is possible since the color comes alive for your unmatched perception on the road.
Cyclists who have bought the sunglasses like it for the HiPER lens because it helps them see the details on the road very well and still protects their eyes from the harmful rays from the sun. The fit is very nice and fits on medium to large head sizes. On the road, the sunglasses don’t slip or fall off and they rarely get scratched even if you fall off your bike.
I’d recommend this pair of sunglasses if you need a pair of glasses that will enhance your field of vision and protect your eyes from the harmful sun rays. If anything, try these out, in the store, for the HiPER lens. It’s a really neat technology.
6. Roka TL-1
There is no getting around the fact that the Roka TL-1’s will not be the ideal solution for all people, especially those who need more coverage than most.
That said, this pair of triathlon sunglasses provides so many features which are almost specifically useful for triathlons and triathletes that it should be an option worth considering even if you are unsure about the coverage. That said, it is worth noting that Roka is actually one of the younger companies on our list with only about half a decade of experience.
Still, the company was founded by sporting sunglasses enthusiasts who also happened to be amateur competitive cyclists. From a drive to both find a better solution to their needs as well as improve in their chosen competition, Roka was born and is simply the best performing triathlon sunglasses we saw, prompting us to name it our Editor’s Choice.
Lenses
When it comes to any pair of glasses, whether triathlon sunglasses or otherwise, the lenses are without question the most important quality to consider.
Whether it is about the maximal amount of protection you can get without sacrificing too much in terms of optical quality or getting the truest, most accurate optical clarity available, even if you have to put up with some inconveniences along the way.
Thankfully, the Roka TL-1 triathlon sunglasses do not believe that you should have to choose between one or the other and offers arguably the best all-around lenses that we saw on any pair of triathlon sunglasses, whether we ultimately reviewed them or not. For one, this begins with Roka’s whip-smart idea to include the Carl Zeiss brand as part of the manufacturing for their lenses.
Aside from the fact that Carl Zeiss is widely known as a manufacturer of the best lenses, regardless the type of glasses, it is even more impressive that they were able to do so for lenses made of nylon. On top of the optical quality, the lenses are also hydroleophobic which means that not only do these lenses repel water but they also repel oil, meaning no more fingerprint smudges, as well as dust.
Frame
Once you have the lenses covered, the next most important quality of triathlon sunglasses will be the frame and fit jointly. It is important to remember that ultimately the fit is more important than the frames, but the frames will inherently influence the fit.
To that end, the frames of the Roka TL-1 triathlon sunglasses are superb sporting the popular Grilamid TR-90 nylon material which makes this the only pair of triathlon sunglasses that we reviewed which features exclusively nylon for the primary components of the triathlon sunglasses.
That said, Roka does not seem interested in simply meeting the industry standards and sitting pat as it also provides a titanium core to help reinforce the durability of the frame without unduly impacting its flexibility or its weight.
As such, the Roka TL-1 triathlon sunglasses have frames which offer the best of both worlds and make another strong push for Editor’s Choice. Finally, the GEKO retention system features a uniquely grooved design for the molded rubber used at the ear pads and nosepiece which provide an excellent grip that is not only comfortable but will not shift in place.
7. Rudy Project Tralyx
The Rudy Project is a unique company on our list in that it is one of the few brands that is generally as much associated with fashion as it is with sporting sunglasses, though it is worth noting that the company was founded explicitly to provide the best sporting sunglasses available.
That said, the brand found itself becoming something of a fashion statement and decided to lean into it without taking their focus away from what inspired the company in the first place. As such, this brand is noted for coming up with various specialized technologies, though it does seem the fashion element rubbed off in terms of focus as these are likely for triathletes who do not otherwise need improved optical quality or protections.
Comfort
When it comes to the Rudy Project Tralyx triathlon sunglasses, comfort is the name of the game and these sunglasses offer numerous advancements towards that goal.
For instance, the Rudy Project Tralyx triathlon sunglasses features Rudy Project’s patented Powerflow design which uses vents at strategically placed points in the frame to increase the airflow without drying your eyes.
Aside from a modest improvement to breathability, this also helps prevent the accumulation of sweat or fogging of the lenses. Beyond the frame the Ergonos IX nosepiece which aside from being made of ridged rubber is also fully adjustable to fit any face.
The same sentiment applies to the earpads of the Rudy Project Tralyx triathlon sunglasses as well which are made using Rudy Project’s Adaptive tips which feature both vents as well as a rubberized exterior.
Convenient
Beyond the comfort that these triathlon sunglasses bring to the table, they are also exceptionally convenient able to transition effortlessly in a number of different situations.
For instance, this is the only pair of triathlon sunglasses that we reviewed which features a photochromic lens which means that the darkness of the lens will depend on the brightness and intensity of the light.
As such, if you are running a triathlon that begins early in the morning when the sun is just cresting the horizon, the lenses will be lighter in shade. However, as the sun begins to rise throughout the course of the race, the lenses will darken in response, providing you additional protection and shade for your eyes.
On top of that, if you prefer a different lens, the Rudy Project Tralyx triathlon sunglasses features a system for changing them out as necessary.
8. Smith Pivlock Arena Max
Smith Optics definitely did not find its way onto our list the same as most of the other companies that we reviewed did.
In fact, Smith Optics was actually founded as a company specialized in the manufacturing of high-end skiing goggles with little to no consideration for either running or cycling sunglasses at all.
That said, this is actually the oldest company on our list with a storied history that stretches back over 6 ½ decades and has consistently demonstrated nothing but top-tier quality from the brand.
As such, though it may not be the best at any given quality when you consider its price compared to many of the top performers on our list, its quality is still good enough to make the best all-around value triathlon sunglasses.
Protections
Whenever you are looking for value, you want to make sure that the product in question offers some additional features that are not normally found in its price range. For the Smith Pivlock Arena Max triathlon sunglasses, that value shows up most prominently when looking at the different protections that the lenses provide both for the wearer as well as for themselves.
For instance, this is one of the few pairs of triathlon sunglasses that we reviewed which features lenses that are hydroleophobic meaning that they resist water, oil, and dirt making them ideal for virtually any setting or race.
Of course, these lenses also provide 100-percent UV protection, so you do not have to worry about bright sunlight damaging your eyes.
Materials
When it comes to the materials of a great value, you want to ideally make sure that all of the materials are at least the high-end industry standard with maybe one or two made of a proprietary blend that improves on the standard in some way.
For more prestigious companies, they will often ensure that the majority of the materials are proprietary, but without specialization, Smith Optics opts instead to primarily stick with the standards.
For instance, the frames of the Smith Pivlock Arena Max triathlon sunglasses are made of Grilamid TR-90 nylon while the nosepiece and ear pads are made of hydrophilic rubber. That said, the lenses once again impress as they are made of polycarbonate infused with Carbon TLT which makes them stronger, more scratch resistant, and improves their optical quality as well.
9. Bolle Shifter
The Bolle Shifter is the quieter yet powerful models of the Bolle glasses I’ve reviewed. It’s simple yet progressive features help cyclists enjoy the ride.
The frames have curved temples to keep the glasses attached to your head for your entire ride and possibly run. And, the frames are vented and have Phantom lenses.
Unlike the other models, this one does not have interchangeable lenses, which makes these a great “starter” cycling sunglasses. You can test out what brand and frame style works for you without spending too much money. And, if you like them they will last a long time.
These are best used if you normally ride in the same conditions and don’t need to change your lenses.
This model does support prescription lenses so you’ll still have this option even if you aren’t shelling out more money for a higher-end model.
Cyclists who have bought these glasses like them because they can be used for both cycling and running very comfortably and easily. The field of vision is expansive and are very light. The lenses work for most conditions, but don’t block out a ton of light on the bright days.
I’d recommend these glasses to those who want basic functions and still work well for cycling and running.
10. Tifosi Davos
The Tifosi Davos has a “look at me” style that combines full coverage protection with sport design. It’s a hybrid full frame design that can be used for cycling, running and other outdoor activities.
This pair has nearly the same technology and comforts as the other model, but this one is more versatile and can comfortably be worn for a triathlon.
This pair of glasses has the same lens color offerings: AC Red, Clarion Blue, or Clear colored lenses. The AC Red is great for all conditions your ride in and have 41.4% light transmission. The Clarion Blue is a mirrored lens so it really blocks out the sun and only transmits 14.7% of light. And, finally, the Clear lens is best used for late-night riding or riding in cloudy conditions.
The Clarion Blue can be ordered with polarization technology. This would not only tint your field of vision but also eliminate glare, enhance color, and offer complete UV protection.
The Phototec technology is microscopic photochromic particles that are embedded in the lens. In bright sunlight, the lens particles darken the optics and ensure additional glare protection. And in darker lights, it ensures that you can see all the bumps and holes in the road.
Cyclists who have bought these glasses like them because they fit very well and block wind while going down a gill. The vents are well designed and really do prevent fogging and help cool cyclist’s face. The Davos have a large coverage zone and people like them because other glasses don’t cover enough. The lenses work well in their appropriate lighting conditions. The interchangeable lenses are a little tedious to change, but it’s not difficult.
I’d recommend this pair of cycling glasses to anyone who needs a lot of coverage for their faces. It covers more than the other model reviewed and can be used for many disciplines or outdoor adventures.
Triathlon Sunglasses – Buyer’s Guide
Lens Materials
As opposed to most gear and equipment worn during a triathlon, triathlon sunglasses are one of the few pieces of gear where the fit is not the most important quality, though it is, of course, still fairly important. Instead, the most important aspect of triathlon sunglasses to consider is the lenses and most importantly the lens material.
The material will impact a number of qualities, but the most important one to consider is the optical quality and the durability, though the protections will be incredibly important as well. It is important to note that polycarbonate is a type of thermoplastic, as are all of the materials used for triathlon sunglasses lenses.
Polycarbonate — This is easily the most common material used for the lenses of a pair of triathlon sunglasses for a fairly good reason. Out of all the materials used for triathlon sunglasses lenses, polycarbonate is the least expensive, though the difference between the price of most triathlon sunglasses lens materials is negligible until you reach the high-end spectrum of the market.
Still, polycarbonate is an incredibly versatile material to use for triathlon sunglasses lenses as it provides a surprisingly clear and true optical quality when compared to most other materials.
On top of that, polycarbonate is often touted as a shatterproof material and it does provide an incredibly durable material with particular strength against impact damage, though it is worth remembering that polycarbonate is far more susceptible to scratches than most of the other materials used in the manufacturing of triathlon sunglasses lenses.
Polycarbonate also forms an excellent substrate for various treatments to improve the protective qualities of the triathlon sunglasses as well. Finally, polycarbonate is an extremely lightweight material which prevents it from adding to the already sizable fatigue that is part and parcel of any endurance race.
Nylon — Out of the materials commonly used for the manufacture of triathlon sunglasses lenses, nylon is actually the least common.
This is likely due to the fact that it sits between the other materials in terms of various qualities without having a true niche. Instead, nylon serves far more as an incremental improvement over polycarbonate without a meaningful increase in cost such that it does not move the needle within the market.
Still, if you are looking for a better performance than polycarbonate without wanting to spend as much money on the high-end materials, nylon is a solid choice. It can provide the same optical quality as well as nearly the same level of impact resistance. Moreover, nylon is inherently far more resistant to scratching than polycarbonate without sacrificing its lightweight build or ability to be infused with a number of other protections.
It is worth noting that for triathlon purposes, nylon could be argued to be a better material for triathlons as you are far more likely to have to deal with scratches than you are the impacts that polycarbonate protects from. Thankfully, nylon has roughly the same level of torsion durability, so the nylon lenses will bend and flex about as much as the polycarbonate ones will.
Tivex/SR-91 — If you absolutely have to have the best material used for triathlon sunglasses lenses, then SR-91, which is sometimes called Tivex, is the only material for you. For instance, though both nylon and polycarbonate can achieve a fairly impressive level of optical quality, SR-91 can achieve a far better level of true representation with optical clarity and accuracy near Zeiss lens levels of quality.
On top of that, the SR-91 lenses are easily the most durable type of lenses that we saw able to provide an impact resistance that is orders of magnitude stronger than any of the other materials. The same relationship applies to both the scratch resistance and the torsion resistance of SR-91 making it by far the strongest material that you can reasonably expect to find. SR-91 unsurprisingly tops the list in most of the other relevant categories as well such as providing the best weight to strength ratio by far and not being significantly different in terms of weight compared to polycarbonate anyway.
Protections
As important as the material of the triathlon sunglasses lenses may be, they are primarily used as much to protect you from the sun as anything else. To be fair, a pair of triathlon sunglasses that merely provided you some cover from the sun as you compete is actually a fairly low standard for triathlon sunglasses.
This is especially true considering you are likely to be exposed to a serious amount of sunlight that can have long-term effects if you are not careful. On top of that, there are some other types of “protections” which are truly more designed for convenience as they actually protect the lenses and not so much the wearer. Finally, there are other protections that are often advertised as meaningful, and they may be in other contexts, but are not truly useful for most triathletes.
UV — This is by far the most important type of protection to look for and is literally the reason that sunglasses exist in the first place. That said, it is important to make sure that the triathlon sunglasses offer complete protection from UV radiation and not just partial protection, protecting you from types of UV radiation but not from others.
For instance, all sunglasses which advertise protection of UV rays inherently include UVA rays. That said, UVB rays are actually more damaging to the eye, and not all manufacturers disclose if their UV protection includes UVB rays. Finally, there are even UVC rays, though these are the least plentiful, though technically the most damaging. That said, these rays are most prominent during dawn and dusk, so you only have to worry about it then.
