The Van Rysel Taaien photochromic cycling glasses might not suit all faces, and they lack some features, but their nigh-on indestructible build and quick-reacting lenses make them a pair of specs that’ll likely see you through a lifetime of cycling.
Here’s a thought: are sunglasses getting taller to reflect the fact that we consume content vertically rather than horizontally? It feels as if Decathlon’s Taaien photochromic glasses are designed to be square-shaped – more 1990s 14-inch CRT than 2020s UHD widescreen.
This tall, wraparound design verges towards the specs you might be asked to wear in the dentist’s chair, but this is the way that cycling glasses are going at the moment. The height means the glasses annex your forehead territory a little more than others.
I have a fairly big, broad conk, and they did initially feel like they were putting too much pressure on my nose. If you have a higher, wider bridge than I do, you might find that they project upwards too much. It’s a shame the nosepad isn’t more adjustable.
Despite their chunky, oversized design, they become barely noticeable once installed on noggin, and that feeling of tightness around my nose all but evaporated. I never had any issues with slippage on a hot day, despite my skin being lubed up with a biohazardous cocktail of Ambre Solaire and hangover sweat.
They’re made of nylon, which makes them lightweight but strong, with silver plastic accents that reinforce the arms. As well as the grey (basically black) version I tested, they’re available in light grey (basically white) and coral pink (basically pink). There are no ventilation holes around the edges of the glasses, but they also never steamed up.
Apparently, the lenses are made from material used in military helicopters. They feel daintily flexible and light in the hand, but Decathlon reckons they’re unbreakable; I’ve chucked them about a bit, and they haven’t scratched at all.
The lenses aren’t just Airwolf-tastic – they’re also photochromic. Decathlon rates them as category 0 to 3, which means they should go from clear to dark enough for sunny, cloudless days.
It takes about 40 seconds for them to go fully dark, and five minutes to lighten again, which sounds like a long time, but your eyes can do a lot of compensating during those transitional moments.
The real test of any cycling glasses on British roads is if they allow you to see potholes under high-contrast tree shade on a sunny day, and I’m happy to confirm that the Taaiens allowed enough vision to pick out those dreaded road holes.
When they’re fully dark, there’s still enough light coming through to be able to see clearly. At the other end of the spectrum, they can be light enough for riding on pitch-black roads.
Having all the options in one package is great for long-distance overnight rides, or variable weather, but if you don’t want the fancy photochromics, they’re also available with a range of tinted lenses for £69.99.
Value
£89.99 is pretty pricey for a pair of sunglasses – from Decathlon no less – but the quality of the materials and the advanced lenses here just about justifies the cost.
The Magicshine Morpher Photochromic Lenses Glasses come in at £59.99, which is a little less.Their party trick is adaptability between full and half glasses, but they also come with an adjustable bridge, a hard case (the Taaiens only come in a soft pouch) and there’s compatibility with a prescription insert (also absent here in the Taaiens).
Above £100 you’ll find the Leatt RideViz Pro Photochromic, which Liam loved. Despite their MTB-centric nature, they’re still tall and offer plenty of coverage, and I doubt anyone’s going to snub you if you wear them on the road ride.
Interestingly, Decathlon also offers the Van Rysel Cycling NXT Photochromic Sunglasses RoadR 900 Perf, at £79.99, and the design is almost uncannily similar, but they lack the unbreakable lenses.
Overall
If these fit your face, and you like the styling, the Van Rysel Taaiens are a bulletproof investment that will likely last longer than your next few bikes. They’re the last pair of sunglasses you’ll ever need — until you lose them.
Test Report
What does the manufacturer say about this product?:
Dynamic lines, sleek look, XXL field of vision. These glasses offer optimal clarity and adapt to light conditions thanks to their NXT photochromic lenses. Perfect hold, even at full speed.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of this product:
POLYURETHANE NXT PHOTOCHROMIC LENSES
Discover ultimate versatility with polyurethane photochromic lenses. These lenses are designed to adapt to any situation, automatically darkening in sunlight and lightening in shaded areas.
Thanks to their polyurethane composition, these lenses are not only lightweight and thin, but also incredibly impact-resistant. Enjoy superior optical quality and full UV protection, all in one lens.
NXT PHOTOCHROMIC LENSES
Photochromic lenses automatically adjust to light intensity.
NXT lenses are among the best on the market, both in terms of spectrum and speed of activation and deactivation.
The lens darkens in approximately 40 seconds (5 minutes to deactivate to category 1).
The brightness that you experience will vary very little, even if the external light levels change, because your eye is constantly adapting. But having the right lens tint allows your eye to rest so that you can be more alert.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE LENSES
Photochromic lenses ranging from category 0 to 3 (model 8987043) or 1 to 3 (model 8987042). The mirror effect naturally darkens the glass.
Category 0 allows 80% to 100% of visible light to pass through.
Category 1 allows 43% to 80% of visible light to pass through.
Category 3 allows 8% to 18% of visible light to pass through.
In all situations, the lenses protect you from 100% of harmful rays, even when the lens is clear.
UV filter in accordance with ISO 123
NYLON FRAMES: COMFORTABLE, LIGHTWEIGHT AND MODERN
Nylon frames are the ideal choice for those looking for both lightness and strength. This high-tech material stands out for its flexibility, which makes the frames both more comfortable and more durable. They adapt perfectly to the shape of your face and withstand everyday impacts. What’s more, their modern, sleek design makes them easy to wear in all circumstances.
Any further comments on quality?:
The perfect blend of light weight and high strength.
Any further comments on performance?:
Almost imperceptible when cycling and the photochromic lenses work well.
How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested?:
There are glasses with more features for less money, but the strength and weight here are the big selling points.
Any further comments on fit?:
They’ll fit most faces, but people with broader noses may struggle.
Any further comments on weight?:
28g is exceptionally lightweight for full-framed sunglasses.
Any further comments on comfort?:
The weightlessness helps with day-long comfort.
Any further comments on lens quality?:
Incredibly light, but very strong and the photochromic element works well.
Any further comments on lens field of vision?:
The high, wide design ensures zero intrusions on your field of view.
Any issues with durability?:
Really tough and durable.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend?
Yes, depending on nose shape or ability to afford rhinoplasty
Use this box to explain your overall score
These might not suit everyone’s face, and some features are sorely missed, but they’re a rock-solid and dependable option for long-distance rides.
About the tester
Age: 45Height: 193cmWeight: 88kg
I usually ride: Tritao GroontMy best bike is:
I’ve been riding for: Over 20 yearsI ride: Every dayI would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: Road racing, Gravel riding, Indoor riding, Indoor racing, Bikepacking, Commuting, Audax, Fitness riding, Leisure riding
