Varifocals and Cycling

Should I wear Varifocal Prescription Sunglasses when Cycling?

Whether to use varifocal prescription sunglasses for cycling is a question we are commonly asked by cyclists. Our usual response is simply no, although Varifocals are great as everyday lenses, for most sports they are not ideal and here’s why.

With a varifocal lens, the power at the top of the lens is different to that at the bottom of the lens. When looking thought the upper part of the lens you are able to see objects in the distance, whilst the bottom of the lens is designed for reading. This allows you to be able to see at all distances, but means that objects below you for example the ground, and your handlebars when cycling, are magnified, and appear to be closer to you than they actually are. This creates visual distortion, which can lead to incorrect judgement of distances which isn’t ideal for cycling and it could have a negative impact on your performance!

Although you may miss the ability to read as easily, it will be a small price to pay compared to the visual distortion you will experience with varifocals when cycling.

For the best vision in sports, it is important to have a view that is uninterrupted and not distorted. If you have a distance prescription, then consider prescription sunglasses or the use of prescription inserts in your regular sports sunglasses rather than varifocals. Oakley produce excellent prescription cycling sunglasses, as do Rudy Project and Bolle and you can find more information, obtain professional advice and shop at www.balanceoptics.com.

If you have any questions please feel free to ask me. I’m a qualified Optician and happy to give advice.