Bloc have been around for a good while now, since 1988 in fact, producing great value sunglasses with the added benefit of interchangeable lenses for a variety of light conditions, the Leopard is their latest ‘active’ model.
Bloc’s primary aim when designing sunglasses is to prove that you don’t need to pay a hefty price for “perfection”. Bloc say they base their designs on forecasting changes in street and sport fashion but in my opinion, the Leopard sunglasses are not a radical departure from the regulation shield type of frame and lense combo that we have become so used to from the likes of Oakley, Briko and even Bloc themselves in the past.
The Leopards come with 3 lenses which are clear, hi yellow and vt3 (smoked grey appearance) and are available in four frame colours. Shiny Black, Anthracite, Shiny Camo and Pearl White. The test pair were shiny black which proved to be unobtrusive, comfortable and subtle although I must say I quite like the look of the pearl white frames which, to me, bare a striking resemblance to my pearl white Oakley half jackets which is no bad thing.
Clarity of vision was fine, all lense types were used and required for different types of riding although they do have a tendency to steam up in wet conditions. The benefit of having the set up as a package is huge, no need to worry about finding another £50+ for expensive lenses as with other sunglass brands.
Extremely lightweight, I barely noticed I was wearing these glasses when running but when riding they did feel a little tight between my ears and helmet - of course that might just be me, but it not an issue I have had with other glasses. Bloc sunglasses have been worn season long by the Kuota-road.cc cycling team so they will have put them through some serious tests too.
Verdict
A great option for those who don't ride long distances and if you don't have the helmet/ear issue a great option if you do. Would I buy some? if I was after a first pair of sunglasses for riding then yes, but for really top level clarity of vision and comfort I would still opt for my trusty Oakleys.
road.cc test report
Make and model: Bloc Leopard 3-lens glasses system
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
7/10
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
8/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
7/10
Rate the product for value:
9/10
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? No, already have enough glasses
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes, I have to several
Age: 24 Height: 5ft 10 Weight: 70kg
I usually ride: felt ar4 My best bike is: i like my felt and my orbea ora tt bike equally
I've been riding for: 5-10 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, commuting, club rides, general fitness riding, mtb, triathlon
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