Why Wrap Sunglasses are Perfect for Endurance Athletes
Sharp, protected vision requires sunglass lenses built for the job.
Cyclists, runners, triathletes, and other endurance athletes need sports sunglasses that do more than just block the sun. They need full coverage to protect their eyes from UV rays, sideways glare, dust, and debris. They also need sharp contrast and clarity throughout their range of vision. That’s why some of the most successful professional endurance athletes wear wraparound lenses — like those found in some of Rudy Project’s most popular sunglasses.
Superior Optics in Any Environment
The main benefit of wrap sunglasses is their unbeatable optics. One of the most common reviews we hear from Rudy Project athletes who race with them is, “I forget I’m wearing them.”
That’s because the frame edges extend beyond the athlete’s field of vision, eliminating distractions, improving focus, and enhancing the sharp contrast provided by the lens tint. The curved shape reduces edge distortion and keeps vision crisp from start to finish. Since the distance between the eye and the lens stays relatively even, the eye doesn’t need to refocus when glancing to either side. The heightened contrast and unobstructed focus allow athletes to identify terrain and obstacles quickly while on the trail or road.
All of this provides an unbeatable optical edge, but protection isn’t just about what’s in view. It’s also about keeping wind, debris, and glare out.
A Visual Protection Plan
By design, a wraparound lens shields the wearer’s eyes from harmful UV rays, blocking direct sunlight and refracted light bouncing off snow, water, glass, or concrete and entering through the bottom or sides of the lens. This coverage also reduces the ability of dust, bugs, or even wind to reach the eyes, irritating them and accelerating eye fatigue.
In extreme cases, large lenses can better protect the eyes from impacts of gravel stones, tree branches, or occasional falls. The one-piece lens distributes the force of impact across a broader surface compared to smaller, individual lenses, reducing the chances of shattering.
A Guide to the Right Wrap Lens by Sport
When it comes to wrap sunglasses, one-size-fits-all models are rarely the best choice. That’s why Rudy Project offers such a wide assortment. The subtle yet strategic differences make them better for some sports than others.
- Cyclists, Mountain Bikers, Downhill Winter Athletes
Lenses such as the Astral Sphere, Astral X, Kelion, and Spinshield offer large coverage and high contrast, as well as sharp vision from side to side and top to bottom. Because they are so large, they inhibit as much airflow through the frames as other wrap lens sunglasses can.
- Runners, Trail Runners, Triathletes, Endurance Winter Athletes
The Astral, Turbolence, and Cutline offer wide coverage and unobstructed vision, but in a slightly smaller lens. These sunglasses use cut-outs in the frame and lens to facilitate airflow and move heat away from the lens and eyes. This helps to mitigate fogging.
Want to dial in your tint based on the terrain, light, and speed you’ll encounter? Learn more about our options here.
