Mountain Bike Goggles Vs Sunglasses: Which One Should You Choose?

Mountain biking is an exhilarating activity that is enjoyed by millions around the world. But it’s not just about the thrill or excitement. Safety is also an important factor when it comes to mountain biking, and one essential safety accessory is eyewear, with our eyes and sight being some of the most vulnerable partsof our body. When it comes to choosing between mountain bike goggles and sunglasses, it can be a tough decision. In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at both options, weigh in the pros and cons, and help you choose the right one for you, although most of our customers opt for both!

Protection

One of the primary roles of eyewear in mountain biking is to protect your eyes. Goggles are more effective at providing complete coverage and sealing off any gaps between the frame and your face. This means they offer superior protection from debris, dust, and any other potential impacts from stones or twigs. Sunglasses, however, provide less coverage, leaving parts of your eye exposed. This could be problematic if you happen to ride through a lot of mud or dust.

Visibility

While protection is a priority, visibility is also crucial when mountain biking. Goggles can sometimes have a smaller field of vision due to the size of the lens and frame. This could be problematic, especially when navigating tricky terrain or tight corners. Sunglasses offer a wider field of vision that enhances your ability to perceive the trail ahead, giving you more time to react and adjust.

Comfort

One of the things you don't want to compromise is comfort, as it can greatly affect your overall mountain biking experience. While goggles offer better protection, they can sometimes be uncomfortable and restrictive. Sunglasses are typically lighter in weight and provide better ventilation, keeping you cool and reducing any fogging issues, which can be a nuisance when wearing goggles.

Weather Conditions

Weather plays an important factor in choosing what eyewear to use. Goggles are perfect for extreme weather conditions, such as rain or snow, as they can offer complete coverage and protection from the elements. Sunglasses, however, might not be the best option in these cases, depending on the lens type. They could also be inadequate for extreme sun glare or dusty conditions, which means you may need to switch to goggles for better protection.

Style

This may not be the most important factor, but style does matter when it comes to your overall appeal and look on the mountain. Sunglasses come in a wide variety of styles and colors, which allow you to pick one that matches your personal style or outfits. Goggles, on the other hand, can be a bit bulky and less stylish, but with the right design and color, they can still make a fashion statement on the trail.

In the end, choosing between mountain bike goggles and sunglasses is a matter of preference, depending on your personal needs and riding style. If you're going for a more intense ride or you require more protection from the elements, then goggles may be your best bet. However, if you are navigating through less technical terrain or you prefer wider coverage and breathing room, then sunglasses may suit you better. Both options have their pros and cons, so we recommend that you evaluate your needs and test out different brands including 100%, ASSOS & Scott.