Top list of photochromic glasses for mountain bikers
Photochromic Glasses for Mountain Bikers 2025 Test: Cycling glasses with self-tinting lenses promise to be the perfect all-rounders for cyclists – always the right lens for the situation. We looked at 11 current photochromic glasses, tested them in MTB use, and also ask the fundamental question of who should actually consider glasses with these special lenses.
Who hasn't experienced this? You're speeding along a sun-drenched country lane, your eyes narrowed to slits to avoid being blinded by the glare. Seconds later, you're driving into a dense forest and it feels like you're driving into a wall of black. This constant switching between light and dark isn't just tiring for the eyes, it's a real safety hazard.
This is precisely where a technology comes into play that is as ingenious as it is practical – at least in theory: photochromic lenses, or self-tinting cycling glasses. Glasses that think for themselves. Lenses that adapt to their surroundings like a chameleon. They are the one companion that promises to guarantee perfect vision in almost any lighting situation. But, as so often in life, the devil is in the details. Does the technology live up to its promises? Do all self-tinting glasses work equally well? And does the performance justify the sometimes hefty price tag? In short: Which are the best photochromic mountain bike glasses?
We tackled these questions and put eleven current photochromic mountain bike glasses through their paces. We subjected them to rigorous testing on dusty trails, through dark forests, and under the blazing sun. One thing we can say right away: the differences are considerable. But before we delve into the intricacies of our test field, let's briefly turn on the light and examine the technology behind it.
Theory lesson: What's behind photochromic lenses?
The term "photochromic" is derived from the Greek words "phos" (light) and "chroma" (color). Essentially, it describes materials that change color when exposed to light—more precisely, ultraviolet (UV) light. Special, light-sensitive molecules are embedded in the lenses. When UV radiation strikes these molecules, they alter their chemical structure. They essentially expand and, as a result, absorb a greater portion of the visible light. Consequently, the lens darkens. When the UV radiation decreases, for example, when driving into a shady forest, the molecules return to their original state, and the lens becomes lighter again. This process is a continuous, dynamic cycle.
The advantages for us bikers are obvious.
- One lens for (almost) all situations: You only need a single pair of glasses for a wide variety of conditions, from cloudy mornings to sunny afternoons. The hassle of dealing with interchangeable lenses is eliminated.
- Focus on the trail: Your eyes have to work less to compensate for changing light conditions. This reduces fatigue and increases concentration on what's essential: the trail ahead.
- Safety: The seamless transition from light to dark and vice versa prevents the dreaded "blind flight" when entering or exiting the forest.
- Permanent UV protection: No matter how light or dark the glass is, the UV protection is always 100% active.
But where there is light, there is also shadow. The physics behind the technology also brings with it a few system-related limitations that one should be aware of:
- Temperature dependence: This is perhaps the most important factor. Photochromic lenses react more strongly and quickly in cold temperatures. On a cold, sunny winter day, the glasses will therefore become very dark. In the intense heat of midsummer, however, the reaction slows down, and the maximum tint is often not quite reached.
- Response time: The transformation doesn't happen at the push of a button. Depending on the model, complete darkness takes between 30 and 120 seconds, while lightening usually takes somewhat longer, sometimes several minutes. An instantaneous change, like that offered by a light switch, is physically impossible.
- Limited range: Most lenses don't become 100% clear when lightened, nor as dark when darkened as specialized glacier glasses. They cover a very broad, but not the absolute extreme, range.
Our test field: 11 current photochromic glasses for mountain bikers compared
For our comparison test of photochromic glasses, we deliberately assembled a broad range of candidates. Here, established premium manufacturers meet up-and-coming newcomers, and exorbitantly expensive designer pieces meet unbeatable value-for-money bargains. From understated all-rounders to fashionable statement glasses, everything that wants to look good on the trail is represented.
We looked at the following eleven models:
- Alpina Turbo Pro V
- Cratoni C-Matic
- Cratoni Skyvision
- Dirtlej Specs 02
- Mavic MVS-Shield
- POC Aspire
- Rudy Project Spinshield Pro
- Scott Torica
- Shimano Technium L
- Smith Bobcat
- Uvex Sportstyle 235V
The price range is of just under 80 euros for the Cratoni Skyvision up to juicy EUR 260 for the POC Aspire. We wanted to know: Does more money really get you better performance? Where are corners cut and where are features maximized? And which glasses are best suited to which type of driver?
Ready, set, go! Which glasses darken the fastest?
Of course, speed is crucial for the practicality of photochromic glasses and their lenses. What good is the technology if the glasses react to changes in light with a significant delay? Therefore, we conducted a corresponding test with all our test candidates. On a sunny day with an outside temperature of around 20°C, each candidate had to wait in the protective darkness of a cardboard box before being used. Each pair of glasses was then immediately exposed to bright sunlight – a camera recorded the darkening process.
The main finding was that while there were differences in speed, these were not as significant as we had expected before the test. All the glasses darkened noticeably after about 10 seconds, and most were almost completely dark after 30 seconds. The process was complete after 90 seconds at the latest. Lightening took longer – with all the glasses. However, measuring this was difficult. Nevertheless, the observations were the same: the differences were not huge, and the glasses that darkened quickly were also the fastest at lightening.
To illustrate the differences, we've created an overview of all the glasses, including photos taken after 3, 10, 30, 60, 90, and 120 seconds. This allows you to compare them yourself. You'll find higher-resolution photos in the individual reviews of each pair of glasses.
The findings from our MTB goggle test
After numerous test kilometers, grueling climbs, and rapid descents, a clear picture emerged. Some findings were expected, others surprised us quite a bit.
1. The glass is king, but the frame is its kingdom.
One striking insight was how often a top-quality lens is let down by a mediocre frame. Prime examples of this are the... Shimano Technium L and the Mavic MVS-ShieldBoth models boast impressive lens performance: vast tint ranges and rapid adjustment. However, as soon as you hold them, creaking frames and wobbly temples significantly detract from the overall impression. This is a clear case of cost-cutting in the wrong place. Glasses like the [example of a different model] demonstrate the exact opposite. POC Aspire, the Rudy Project Spinshield Pro or a Cratoni C-MaticTheir frames are incredibly strong, torsionally rigid, and simply feel extremely high-quality. This robustness provides an invaluable sense of security on the trail.
2. The VLT range: Not every all-rounder is the same.
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) indicates how much light the glass lets through. A low percentage means a dark tint, a high percentage a clear glass. And this is where the wheat is separated from the chaff. Models like the Shimano Technium L (17-85%), which Cratoni C-Matic (11-86%) or the POC Aspire (18-84%) cover a gigantic range and become almost completely clear in bright light. They are true all-rounders that can be worn from dusk to the blazing midday sun.
Others, like the Rudy Project Spinshield Pro (8-48%) are clearly designed for sunny conditions. With a maximum tint of 48%, it's already too dark for dim wooded sections, but it really shines on bright, sunny days. So, it's important to carefully consider which tint range best suits your driving style.
3. Fit and comfort: The silent heroes
The best optics are useless if the glasses pinch, slip, or restrict your vision with a wide frame. The test field revealed some clear specialists: The Scott Torica With its slim design and tall glass, it's a revelation for bikers with smaller faces, while the Dirtlej Specs 02 With its width, it's clearly designed for larger heads. We were impressed by the outstanding details: the ingenious, click-adjustable nose bridge of the Dirtlej glasses, or the "Megol" pads of the Smith BobcatFeatures that increase grip even further when in contact with sweat are a way to take wearing comfort to a new level.
4. The small but important differences
Often it's the details that make the difference between a good and an excellent impression. It's almost an affront when manufacturers like Rudy Project or Cratoni forgo a protective hard case for goggles costing over €170 and only include a microfiber pouch. Smith proves that it can be done differently with the Bobcat: It not only comes with a rock-solid case, but even a completely clear interchangeable lens for night riding. This "worry-free package" justifies the high price and shows that thought has been put into the design. Further praise is due to the Cratoni Skyvision: It's the undisputed "price breaker" in the test. For under €80, it delivers absolutely superb performance on the trail. Yes, the feel is simpler and the frame creaks, but the pure functionality is simply outstanding for this price.
The limits of technology: Are photochromic glasses always the best choice?
Let's be honest: despite all the technological advances, photochromic lenses are still a compromise. Reaction time is the crucial factor. Even the fastest models in our tests require a noticeable moment to lighten. When making a lightning-fast transition from an open meadow to a dark pine forest, this delay can mean being "fumbled in the dark" for a few, but crucial, meters. So, for whom might conventional glasses with a fixed, light tint be the better all-around solution? This is where the purist or the racer comes in. Those who primarily ride in consistent conditions—such as in dense forests or under a consistently overcast sky—might benefit more from glasses with a single lens, but one perfectly optimized for that purpose. A high-quality lens with a light tint is often unsurpassed in its ability to enhance contrast. It offers absolutely predictable and consistent vision. Photochromic lenses remain the queen of versatility for the touring cyclist who spends hours on the road, traversing every conceivable lighting situation.
Conclusion: There is no single perfect photochromic pair of glasses.
If our test has shown one thing, it's this: there's no single, perfect photochromic pair of glasses for everyone. Instead, there's the perfect pair of glasses for you. It's a matter of priorities. Do you value uncompromising build quality and are willing to pay a premium and accept a bit more weight? Then the POC Aspire is the pair for you. Are you looking for the most well-thought-out overall package with an excellent fit, strong optics, and useful accessories? Then the Smith Bobcat is practically a must-have. Are you a fair-weather cyclist for whom minimal weight, a huge field of vision, and flawless workmanship are everything? Then you'll love the Rudy Project Spinshield Pro. Is your budget limited, but you still don't want to compromise on reliable photochromic functionality? Then the Cratoni Skyvision is an unbeatable deal. And for those who prioritize lens performance above all else and can overlook minor shortcomings in feel, models like the Shimano Technium L or the Alpina Turbo Pro V are strong contenders.
Every pair of glasses in our test has its place, its strengths and weaknesses. We invite you to delve into our detailed individual reviews. There you'll find everything you need to know to find the perfect model that will accompany you on countless adventures and always guarantee one thing: perfect vision.
