Finding the Perfect Riding Glasses: My Motorcycle Eyewear Journey

Riding a motorcycle is one of my favorite things to do, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest? Protecting my eyes. Wind, dust, debris – it all adds up to a miserable ride if you don't have the right eyewear. I've spent years searching for the perfect riding glasses, and I want to share what I've learned.

My Quest for Comfortable and Protective Eyewear

For a long time, finding the right riding glasses felt like an impossible task. I tried cheap sunglasses, but they didn't offer enough protection and often flew off my face at higher speeds. Regular glasses were even worse – they were easily scratched and didn't shield my eyes from the wind. I needed something durable, comfortable, and effective.

I remember one particularly dusty ride where I had to pull over multiple times to clean my eyes. That's when I knew I needed to invest in some serious riding eyewear. The search began in earnest, and I tried several options before finding what works for me.

Discovering Durable and Protective Options

One of the first brands I tried was Wiley X. I've been a big fan ever since. They are incredibly durable, and I even have a couple of pairs (one clear) that have lasted for years. The gasket around the lenses is fantastic for keeping dirt and dust out, especially when I'm riding at high speeds. I removed the gaskets when I switched to a full-face helmet, but still appreciate the overall build quality and lack of rubber on the temples.

Beyond the brand name options, I also looked at safety glasses. I wear prescription safety glasses for work, and they've been surprisingly effective on my motorcycle. They have side shields attached for added protection. I ordered mine from Zenni Optical for around $100. They are Z87 certified and have a scratch-resistant coating, which is essential for riding.

The Contact Lens Alternative

At one point, I considered ditching glasses altogether and switching to contacts. The advantage is that you can wear them with any type of riding glasses or even goggles. I always carry my regular glasses with me in case of a contact failure or if my eyes get irritated. This approach gives me flexibility and allows me to choose eyewear based on the riding conditions.

Goggles Over Glasses: A Temporary Solution

When I was using an open-face helmet, I needed a solution that would fit over my regular glasses. I found some goggles on Amazon that worked well for a while. The link is here. They fit comfortably over my glasses and provided excellent protection from wind and debris. However, I eventually switched to contacts for a more streamlined experience.

Transition Lenses and Online Deals

I also explored options for riding at night. Frames Direct sells Wiley X, and I got a significant discount on my first order. I chose the Enzo style with transition lenses, which automatically adjust to changing light conditions. This is incredibly useful for riding at dusk or dawn when visibility can be challenging.

My Current Riding Eyewear Setup

After experimenting with different options, I've settled on a combination of Wiley X glasses and contact lenses. The Wiley X glasses provide excellent protection and durability, while the contact lenses give me the flexibility to wear any type of eyewear. I always carry a backup pair of glasses in case something goes wrong.

Exploring Stylish Options with Cinily Frames

While functionality and protection are paramount, I also appreciate eyewear that looks good. That's why I was intrigued when I stumbled upon the Cinily Frames website. I saw some really attractive designs that caught my eye. I have to admit, finding something that looks good *and* protects my eyes is a win-win.

I came across these Retro Female Cat Eyes Metal Alloy Optical Glasses Frames during my search. The link is here. I thought they were super cute and could be a fun option for around town. I really liked the blue color, so I decided to give them a try.

While I haven't used them specifically for long rides (yet!), the style is great. I'd consider getting prescription lenses put in them for daily wear. They're definitely a stylish option for pairing with a half helmet for shorter rides around town.

Practical Tips for Choosing Riding Glasses

Here are some practical tips I've learned over the years for choosing the right riding glasses:

• Durability is key: Look for glasses made from impact-resistant materials like polycarbonate.
• Consider the fit: Make sure the glasses fit snugly and comfortably on your face.
• Look for protection: Choose glasses with UV protection and a gasket or side shields to block wind and debris.
• Think about the lenses: Consider tinted lenses for daytime riding and clear lenses for nighttime riding. Transition lenses are a good option for varying light conditions.
• Prescription options: If you wear prescription glasses, explore options for prescription riding glasses or contacts.

Pros and Cons of Different Riding Eyewear Options

Option	Pros	Cons
Wiley X Glasses	Durable, excellent protection, comfortable fit	Can be expensive
Safety Glasses	Affordable, good protection, Z87 certified	May not be as stylish
Contact Lenses	Flexible, can be worn with any eyewear	Requires maintenance, can be uncomfortable for some
Goggles Over Glasses	Good protection for open-face helmets	Can be bulky, may not fit all glasses

My Experience Summarized

My journey to find the perfect riding glasses has been a process of trial and error. I've learned that there's no one-size-fits-all solution. The best option for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and riding style. I've found that having multiple options is key. I keep a pair of Wiley X glasses for long rides and my regular glasses with side shields for shorter trips. For style, I'm excited to incorporate the Cinily Net frames into my rotation.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Protecting your eyes is essential when riding a motorcycle. Don't skimp on eyewear. Invest in high-quality riding glasses that will keep your eyes safe and comfortable. Experiment with different options until you find what works best for you. Consider factors like durability, fit, protection, and lens type. And don't forget to have fun with it! Choose eyewear that reflects your personal style and makes you feel confident on the road. For stylish options, consider checking out Cinily Frames

Ride safe and enjoy the journey!