Motorcycle Glasses: What To Look For

by Roda Novenario
Man with glasses sits on a motorcycle while holding his helmet

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Vroom vroom! Are you a motorcycle enthusiast? There’s nothing better than hitting the open road on your bike and feeling the wind in your hair. But hey, before you head out there, don’t forget your motorcycle glasses!

Choose eyeglasses that protect your eyes from the elements and everything else that you encounter on the road, on top of giving you perfect vision. Here’s my list of what to look for and how to upgrade your eyewear so they’re worthy motorcycle glasses!

Lens Material and Add-Ons

Impact-Resistance

Arguably, lenses are the most vulnerable parts of motorcycle glasses. When you’re out for a ride, going at max speed, you don’t know what’ll hit you. Dust, debris, leaves, and pebbles can come from all sides. Even a strong gust of wind can be jarring. Your motorcycle glasses should be able to take all this.

So, impact-resistant lenses are the non-negotiables. For the most protection, choose plastic or polycarbonate lenses! Polycarbonate is one of the toughest and most impact-resistant materials available. The material is also lightweight and provides great optics.

Choosing a polycarbonate lens upgrade on EZContacts
Choosing a Polycarbonate Lens Upgrade on EZContacts

When you buy your glasses, check the lens materials. You can upgrade to premium plastic or impact-resistant polycarbonate for a minimal fee.

Lens Tinting

You also need to think about lens tinting. You are, after all, out in nature. From sunup to sundown, lighting conditions change. Your motorcycle glasses should be able to adjust to changing light.

Transition lenses are nice, but they’re not required. They can be a costly add-on, and they aren’t always available for motorcycle eyewear styles. You can get tinted lenses when you get your glasses made for a minimal add-on fee. (At EZContacts, this is just $39.)

Tinted lenses help improve contrast and depth perception. Plus, you get a good level of blue light and UV ray protection, too. Gray tints are neutral and great for the outdoors. Brown tints are amazing for countryside trips, while yellow/gold tints are best for reducing glare in low-light conditions. 

Choosing tinted lens upgrade on EZContacts
Choosing Tinted Lens Upgrade on EZContacts

UV Protection

Of course, UV protection comes in handy when you’re out on the road. Polycarbonate lenses naturally come with UV protection. And most of the lenses in the market today have been pre-coated for UV protection. To be sure, check with the eyewear vendor.

Frame Design and Fit

Once you’ve figured out your lenses, now comes the fun part: design and fit! This is where you need to consider your bike-riding aesthetic.

Are you a casual weekend biker? You might want motorcycle glasses that are versatile and can be worn with your weekday wear.

Are you an avid rider? Then make sure your motorcycle glasses are tough, durable, and ready to take long rides with you!

Are you a rider/lifestyle influencer? Consider stylish frames and just upgrade the lens so that they can go on the road with you! 

Wrap-around frames are great, but they aren’t must-haves if you’re a casual biker. You have your helmet to protect you. Just make sure your glasses fit securely. It’s also good to have adjustable nose pads and temple arms so you can customize the fit as needed.

The one crucial requirement is that your motorcycle glasses are compatible with your helmet. They should fit securely without discomfort or pressure.

Motorcycle Glasses: Top Picks

Harley Davidson HD0365

Black half-rim metallic frames with translucent nose pads and rubberized temple tips
Harley Davidson HD0365 Glasses

An article on anything to do with motorcycles is incomplete without Harley-Davidson! The legendary brand makes it on our list with its Harley Davidson HD0365, a pair of black half-rim metallic glasses that’s subtle in style but provides a secure and reliable fit. 

If you’re a casual rider who’s looking for eyeglasses that look great on and off the road, this is your pair!

Oakley AIRDROP OX8046

Solid black plastic frames with the Oakley logo along the hinges
Oakley AIRDROP OX8046 Glasses

Did you know that Oakley and the U.S. Armed Forces have had a partnership since the 1980s? This is a testament to the toughness and versatility of Oakley eyewear, and you can experience it yourself on your next trip with the Oakley AIRDROP OX8046 glasses. 

This pair is tough and stylish, and they’re made for the active urbanite. If you ride through city streets, these should be your go-to motorcycle glasses.

Liberty Sport Helmet Spex

Rectangle maroon/grey plastic frames with black padded glass straps
Liberty Sport Helmet Spex Glasses

The name Liberty Sport Helmet Spex says it all. These glasses are made for action and helmets! If you’re an avid biker and ride on seemingly unending roads, these are the motorcycle glasses to wear. Take them on long trips. You will love the comfort, security, and, of course, visual clarity from these glasses. Enjoy perfect vision and complete eye protection.

These are available at EZContacts in both adult sizes and children’s sizes if you want to take your kids on a ride. Many verified EZContacts buyers love these glasses. Beth E. says: 

“Ordering was easy, and they were delivered the next week. Price was $50-$70 cheaper than every other website. Great quality product.”

Whitney O. likes the glasses, too, but warns about fogging: 

“The glasses are great except they fog up really bad!! I was expecting that for the price I would not have this issue but no such luck.”

Fogging happens when warm air meets a cold surface. So, if you’re unsure about the temperature or climate during your trip, bring an anti-fog spray with you.

Adidas Sport SP5003

Black-framed glasses with Adidas logo on lens
Adidas Sport SP5003 Glasses

The Adidas Sport SP5003 is another fun sporty pair that you can go riding with. Take these glasses on weekend getaways or short rides around the city. They’re so light that verified buyer Brad W. doesn’t even realize he’s wearing them: 

“I love these. Lightweight cool frames. Don’t even realize I’m wearing them.”

Get them in color combinations that match most helmets: Matte Black, Dark Havana, Grey, and Black/Orange.


TL;DR

  • Safety ranks first when it comes to motorcycle glasses, so make sure you get a pair with impact-resistant lenses.
  • Lens tinting helps improve depth perception and contrast. Choose a tint that best fits your typical riding conditions.
  • When you’re on the road all day, UV protection is a must!
  • Wrap-around frame designs are good to have, but not required. Helmet compatibility is of utmost importance.
  • Some of our top motorcycle glasses include: Harley Davidson HD0365, Oakley AIRDROP OX8046, Liberty Sport Helmet Spex, and Adidas Sport SP5003.

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