Shimano S-Phyre R Glasses

The Shimano S-Phyre R glasses might look slightly retro compared with some, but the photochromic optics and protection rival others that I've tested recently. Their large lens also wins when it comes to protection from dust and other airborne pollutants.

• Pros: Great coverage, excellent optical clarity and comfort
• Cons: Bike-specific design limits versatility in terms of off-bike use

The glasses were developed in conjunction with the riders of Team LottoNL, and their bike-specific design might be a deal-breaker if you're in the market for a set of technical sunnies that cross over to street wear. However, their larger-than-average lens promises optimal protection to the eyes, and we only get one pair...

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The photochromic lens reacts very quickly to subtle as well as more extreme light changes. There's a momentary pause when entering extremely harsh sunlight, but emphasis is on the momentary. By my reckoning it turns light to dark in about 15 seconds, dark to light in a more pedestrian 35, though the incremental nature means it isn't a hindrance.

The polycarbonate lens also promises high impact resistance, with UV400 protection and an anti-scratch coating, and its hydrophobic (water-repelling) treatment encourages rain to bead up and simply roll away. I had no problems riding in heavy rain at speeds between 35 and 42mph on a 1-in-7 descent.

The lens is also resistant to dust and oils, though mud and similar spatter occasionally needed some extra persuasion.

It's worth noting that while these coatings do an excellent job, it's still advisable to wipe the lens with a cloth afterwards. I've also found periodic helpings of Salclear TT-X or similar helps, especially tackling water staining and muddy spatter.

The large lens's additional coverage makes a small but significant difference, most notably keeping pollen, dust, 'thunder bugs' and similarly invasive critters out.

Misting in cooler weathers can present, even with more expensive/sophisticated glasses. I wore a Respro type pollution mask on a couple of very early outings and, as I expected, there was some fleeting condensation, but this vanished and didn't return for the remainder of the 25-mile ride, even when I stopped to tighten a slackening seatpost cradle.

Frame and fit

The frame has a tactile, almost rubbery silicone texture. It's made from Grilamid TR-90 with supple, rubberised, non-slip TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) tips. The glasses sat securely at the key points, confirmed by several hours of mixed terrain riding, remaining perfectly aligned.

Adjustability, should you need it, comes in the shape of a reversible nosepiece (it has different front and back thicknesses), though the springy frame can accommodate different head shapes comfortably. The silicone gripper on the arms also enables the glasses to be positioned closer or further away, to prevent eyelashes brushing the lens, for example.

I'm lucky in that most glasses tend to fit me very well, and straight from the case there was no need for any tweaking/adjustment for these to sit comfortably on me. The precision fit also seals out eye-watering breezes.

Value

Although £129.99 is hardly small change, it's not outlandish for this kind of specification or performance. The Julbo Aerospeeds, for example, are £135, while Oakley's Sutros are £130, and arguably hold the crown if bigger is better.

> Buyer's Guide: 24 of the best cycling sunglasses

That said, it's possible to get some very good glasses for around £40. If you don't mind swapping lenses, BBB's Avengers are decent, wallet-friendly, non-photochromic alternatives.

> Buyer's Guide: 11 of the best cheap cycling sunglasses

Conclusion

Frankly, I'd expect something super-competent from Shimano, with team development, especially at this price point. These deliver in every respect and genuinely offer great protection. The only thing that might limit their appeal is their bike-specific design, if you want something that won't look out of place off the bike. You even get a spare lens and nosepiece in the deal, which is a definite plus.

Verdict

High quality glasses that work really well on the bike