Introduced earlier this year, the Competitor Series of sunglasses introduced Bollé to the world of cycling. Designed form the ground up to address the needs of the serious cyclist, the optical clarity in these sunglasses will enhance both your riding experience and performance on the bike.
The Bollé Competitor Series features 5 different styles of cycling sunglasses: Bolt, Tempest, Helix, Vortex, and Draft. I was sent a couple of pairs to try, the Helix and the Tempest, which are more compact and meant for narrow faces types.
The lenses are amazingly clear thanks to Bollé's B-Clear lens technology, which enhances your ability to see what is coming at you. The impact resistant and lightweight Trivex lens material delivers superior optical quality with glass like clarity. When I first put on the sunglasses, I felt like I was wearing reading glasses, as everything instantly became so crisp and clear.
Three different B-Clear technology lenses are offered: the Eclipse Photochromic that automatically lightens and darkens with the changing light conditions, the Element All-Purpose, and the Horizon Polarized that eliminates glare. Each lens also comes in a multitude of colors to suite various types of sports and expected light conditions.
The cycling sunglasses are equipped with an interchangeable lens system, allowing you to quickly change out lenses mid-ride in order to match the current light conditions or particular trail type. Vented temples help to keep the lenses from fogging, even when wearing a helmet. The lenses are also treated with a hydro and oil phobic coating to repel rain, fingerprints, and general smudging.
The aerodynamically shaped frames are made from an extremely lightweight, durable, and flexible nylon, so you hardly feel them on your face. I wore the Tempest sunglasses on the bike for almost 5 hours straight yesterday at Levi's Granfondo and never developed any pressure points. Moisture absorbing Thermogrip temple tips and nose pads keep the frames securely in place, even after looking down for long periods of time.
Bottom Line: The Bollé Competitor Series cycling sunglasses are lightweight and comfortable enough to be worn on the bike all day, offering full coverage with incredibly crisp, clear vision. The sunglasses would also be very suitable for mountain biking or running.
The unisex Bollé Tempest and Helix cycling sunglasses come in a variety of frame colors and retail for $160-$190, depending on lenses.