Tifosi Logic sunglasses

Tifosi is a very popular brand in the USA, with a massive range of eyewear for running, cycling, tennis, golf, fishing and more, but it's a relatively new name here in the UK. We've been testing a pair of Logic cycling specs, and going by the quality and price we think Tifosi may become much better-known in future.

The lenses are made from polycarbonate, a plastic designed to flex slightly, which Tifosi say is 'decentered' meaning vision is not distorted. This is true; we've done quite a few miles in these glasses in varying conditions, and the view has always been 100% clear. (Until being hit by road spray from the rider in front, but that's another story...)

In the upper corner of each lens there's a ventilation gap (basically an open slot between frame and lens). This helps reduce fogging, by funnelling a small amount of airflow behind the lens. It may look like a gimmick but it works.

The fame is made from another kind of plastic (we're informed it's called Grilamid TR-90 homopolyamide nylon) which is very strong but still flexible rather than brittle.

The frame design gives a large section of frame on each side, level with the temples, just in front of the frame hinge. Some riders may find this too chunky and prefer a svelter look; I like it because it keeps out glare from the corner of the eyes.

The sections of the frame that go over the ears are made from black rubber dubbed 'hydrophilic' (ie, water loving) which Tifosi claims grip better when wet - whether it's rain and sweat. The same applies to the nose-piece. Having worn these glasses during some long sportives recently in hot conditions, where sweat was pouring from under the helmet on the big climbs, we can safely confirm this claim is true. The glasses stayed firmly in place all day.

The ear-pieces can also be bent into shape according to personal comfort. Some riders like the stylish look of straight lines. We go for a slightly downward curve: as well as an added guarantee the glasses won't slip off, it also means the earpieces don't touch the underneath of the helmet rim. Being able to fine-tune the fit this way is a very useful feature.

We also like the fact that the ends of the ear-pieces do not touch the inside of the lens when the glasses are folded, which means no scratches in transit.

Our test glasses have an orange frame, but the Logics also come in black, white, sliver and brown. The recommended retail price is a penny under £50 (less at some on-line stores), which compares very well with the price of similar quality specs from the better-known high-profile brands.

Verdict

Smart-looking, high-quality eye-wear at a good-value price