Combining comfort and safety is the number one priority for motorcyclists. But riders who wear glasses know that it’s not always easy to slip corrective lenses under a helmet. Before you get on your bike, follow this practical 5-point guide.
Targeting the right frames
For comfort and visibility, it’s best to go for flexible frames that aren’t too wide. Above all, biker glasses should be comfortable. Favour frames with straight, ergonomic temples that are easier to put on. Avoid temples with inner surfaces that do not slide easily.
Choosing (also) the right helmet
Most standard “full face” helmets create pressure points that cause the goggles to move up and down, impacting the field of vision. However, there are helmets that have grooves for the glasses, which provide better stability and safety. Beware of the compromise, of course, the “jet” helmet, open, is easier to put on with glasses, but the safety is not optimal.
Anticipate fogging
This is the number one enemy of motorcyclists, especially if they wear glasses. Special anti-fog products for helmets and glasses have proven their effectiveness. You can also ask your optician for an anti-fog treatment for your glasses. On the road, don’t hesitate to play with the helmet’s air vents, if it has them. Finally, consider carrying a quality pair of spare glasses with you everywhere.
Protecting yourself from the sun
You can choose photochromic lenses for your glasses: clear indoors (in the office and at home) and at night, they will be tinted according to the brightness outside. Some can even be tinted behind a car windscreen or helmet visor. Alternatively, you can opt for sunglasses that reduce glare, and if they are polarised, they also cut out annoying reflections. Be careful not to choose lenses that are too dark: index 4, which is too dark, is prohibited for driving. Some bikers prefer a tinted visor to sunglasses. But for others, it hinders riding when the light is low.
Favouring specific lens qualities
Important in the event of impact or projection, polycarbonate lenses will ensure better safety, as this material is virtually unbreakable. Another important safety aspect is how to reduce glare when riding at night. All motorcyclists who ride at night or in semi-darkness are bothered by headlights, glare and image splitting. These problems are even more pronounced for spectacle wearers. For the latter, it is essential to adopt lenses with an anti-reflective coating, which reduces the effect of the light halo produced by public lighting or by oncoming vehicles.
If you are presbyopic, you should know that there are progressive lenses specifically designed for driving: your vision is perfect at all distances and thanks to the very wide field of vision, you are very comfortable even on the sides. Ask your optician for advice!
