Wearing trail goggles during training and racing is essential to protect the eyes from external elements such as UV rays, wind, dust and branches. They also improve visibility by adjusting brightness and increasing contrast, which is crucial for navigating varied terrain and avoiding obstacles.
What's more, trail goggles offer enhanced comfortThey also help to prevent sweat from dripping into your eyes, and contribute to a safer, more enjoyable running experience. All in all, they're an indispensable asset for any runner concerned about performance and protection.
Without further ado, here's our comparison of the best trail goggles.
Contents
- 1 Selected eyewear models:
- 2 Trail sunglasses for men and women: Oakley radar EV Path Prizm Road
- 3 Julbo trail goggles: Julbo Fury Reactiv Photochromic 1-3
- 4 Oakley Trail Goggles : Oakley Jawbreaker Prizm Road
- 5 Women's trail goggles: Julbo Fury Spectron 3 CF
- 6 Women's trail goggles: Julbo Ultimate Reactiv Photochromic Performance 0-3
- 7 Questions / Answers about trail goggles
Selected eyewear models:
- Oakley radar EV Path Prizm Road
- Julbo Fury Reactiv Photochromic 1-3
- Oakley Jawbreaker Prizm Road
- Julbo Fury Spectron 3 CF
- Julbo Ultimate Reactiv Photochromic Performance 0-3
Trail sunglasses for men and women: Oakley radar EV Path Prizm Road
Product presentation
Oakley Radar EV Path Prizm Road, designed for road and trail running thanks to a combination of strength, comfort and optical quality.
These goggles feature an O-Matter frame, renowned for its ability to withstand various forms of stress while offering appreciable lightness, ensuring durability and comfort even during the longest sessions. Oakley's unique Unobtainium sleeves ensure that the goggles stay securely in place, preventing slippage caused by perspiration.
Equipped with patented High Definition Optics (HDO), Oakley Radar EV Path Prizm Road lenses offer unprecedented visual clarity for crisp, sharp vision. The Prizm coating on the lenses enhances colour and contrast, optimising visibility in a variety of light conditions and improving rider safety and performance.
The ventilated design of the glasses promotes maximum air circulation, reducing fogging and keeping runners cool. With the option of interchanging lenses, runners can adapt their vision to suit different light conditions, for an optimal running experience at all times.
The Oakley Radar EV Path Prizm Road combines technology and functionality to meet the needs of road racers looking to combine performance and visual protection.
Product features
| Features | Oakley radar EV Path Prizm Road |
|---|---|
| Lens colour | Indigo |
| Photochromic | No |
| Interchangeable lenses | Yes |
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of the Oakley radar EV Path Prizm Road :
- Optical Clarity : High Definition Optics technology ensures clear, precise vision, improving safety and performance during races.
- Contrast enhancement: Prizm lenses increase contrast, making road details more visible and improving the rider's responsiveness to changes in terrain.
- Secure hold: The Unobtainium sleeves increase grip despite perspiration, keeping the goggles firmly in place during exercise.
- Comfort and lightness : The O-Matter frame combines strength and lightness for long-lasting comfort, even during long running sessions.
- Optimum Ventilation : The design allows air to circulate, reducing fogging and keeping the rider cool.
- Interchangeable lenses : Lenses can be changed to adapt to changing light conditions.
Disadvantages of the pair :
- Price : As with many Oakley products, the price can be high compared to other brands, which may not suit all budgets.
- Specificity of Prizm Road lenses : Although Prizm Road lenses are optimised for road use, they may not be ideal for other lighting conditions or environments, such as shaded paths or forest runs.
Product ratings and reviews
Oakley Radar EV Path Prizm Road goggles are ideal for road and trail runners in strong sunlight. They offer clear vision and long-lasting comfort. Their lightweight frame and Prizm lenses enhance colour and contrast, while the anti-slip sleeves ensure a good fit even when perspiring. These glasses are designed to optimise the performance and safety of runners in all conditions.
Julbo trail goggles: Julbo Fury Reactiv Photochromic 1-3
Product presentation
The Julbo Fury Reactiv Photochromic 1-3 goggles are designed to accompany trail runners on their outdoor runs, offering features adapted to intense sporting activity.
These goggles feature a tough, lightweight frame that ensures comfortable use even during prolonged exertion. The Grip Nose inserts and Air Link Temple system provide seamless stability, reducing impact and ensuring the goggles stay in place, no matter how intense the activity. Their ergonomic design and cushioning properties enhance comfort, allowing runners to concentrate fully on their route.
Equipped with Reactiv Photochromic lenses, these glasses adjust automatically to changes in light conditions, offering optimum vision in a range of weather conditions. The anti-fog and oleophobic coating prevents the build-up of moisture and repels dirt, maintaining constant clarity of vision. Total Cover protection and panoramic vision ensure complete protection and wide peripheral vision, essential for safety and performance on the trails.
Thanks to the Full Venting process, the goggles benefit from effective ventilation that prevents fogging, ensuring clear visibility in any situation. The Grip Tech material on the temples prevents slipping and does not interfere with hair, increasing comfort and allowing riders to accelerate with confidence.
Product features
| Features | Julbo Fury Reactiv Photochromic 1-3 |
|---|---|
| Lens colour | Transparent |
| Photochromic | Yes |
| Interchangeable lenses | Yes |
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of the Julbo Fury Reactiv Photochromic 1-3 :
- Lens adaptability : Reactiv Photochromic lenses automatically adjust to ambient light levels, providing optimum vision in different light conditions without the need to change lenses.
- Comfort : The ergonomic design, with Grip Nose inserts and the Air Link Temple system, ensures a comfortable and stable fit, even during intense movement.
- Protection : The Total Cover and panoramic view provide excellent protection against wind, sun and debris, while offering a wide field of vision.
- Anti-fog and oil-repellent: Anti-fog and oleophobic treatments keep the lenses clear and unclogged by sweat or dirt.
- Lightweight : Weighing just 38g, these glasses are light enough to be worn comfortably for long periods.
Disadvantages of the pair :
- Price : Advanced technology and high-quality materials can make these glasses more expensive than more basic models.
Product ratings and reviews
All in all, the Julbo Fury Reactiv Photochromic 1-3 are ideal for trail runners looking for a pair of glasses that can adapt to the changing environment, while offering comfort, protection and a perfect fit.
Oakley Trail Goggles : Oakley Jawbreaker Prizm Road
Product presentation
Oakley Jawbreaker Prizm Road combines style and functionality, designed to accompany runners and cyclists in their sporting activities.
These glasses feature Unobtainium sleeves that ensure a stable fit, even in the event of intense perspiration, guaranteeing lasting comfort throughout the effort. The robust frame structure, combined with Switchlock technology, offers not only high impact resistance but also the flexibility to change lenses easily to suit different light conditions, enhancing the user experience without sacrificing durability.
Equipped with the Prizm Road lens, these goggles optimise contrast and visibility, allowing greater perception of details and obstacles on the road or trail. Patented High Definition Optics (HDO) technology ensures exceptional optical clarity and precise vision, protecting the eyes while providing the wide peripheral view essential for safety and performance in high-speed activities.
Product features
| Features | Oakley Jawbreaker Prizm Road |
|---|---|
| Lens colour | Indigo |
| Photochromic | No |
| Interchangeable lenses | Yes |
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of Oakley Prizm Road :
- Extended peripheral vision : They offer wide coverage, which is crucial for detecting obstacles and navigating technical trails in complete safety.
- Optical quality : Prizm technology enhances contrast and visual clarity, making it easier to see details on different types of terrain.
- Adaptability : Thanks to Switchlock technology, the lenses can be changed quickly to suit the light conditions, which is particularly useful for trail riders travelling through overcast and then sunny areas.
- Stable maintenance : The Unobtainium sleeves ensure a firm fit even when perspiring, reducing the risk of the goggles slipping or moving during the race.
Disadvantages of the pair :
- Weight : With their robust construction and large lenses, they can be slightly heavier than models designed specifically for running, which can increase fatigue during long trail sessions.
- Price : The advanced technology and quality of materials used can make these glasses more expensive than other options available on the market.
Product ratings and reviews
The combination of these features makes Oakley Jawbreaker Prizm Road eyewear a smart choice for athletes looking for high performance gear that doesn't compromise protection or style. Whether you're out cycling or running, these goggles are designed to provide an optimal visual experience and excellent comfort for outdoor sports in high light conditions.
Women's trail goggles: Julbo Fury Spectron 3 CF
Product presentation
The Julbo Fury Spectron 3 CF goggles are designed for trail enthusiasts looking for equipment that combines solidity, comfort and optical performance.
Thanks to their polycarbonate design, these goggles combine remarkable impact resistance with a notable lightness, essential for long outings in the great outdoors. The single-lens frame offers a wide panoramic view, allowing increased vigilance without compromising protection. The Air Link Temple system and Grip Nose inserts ensure a comfortable, stable fit, reducing pressure on the temples and nose for a pleasant experience even after many hours of use.
Featuring Spectron 3 CF lenses, these goggles offer category 3 sun protection, ideal for the high-light conditions typical of mountain biking. The Color Flash coating adds an aesthetic touch with its mirror effect while effectively filtering light, guaranteeing visual clarity without glare. The width of the lens ensures total protection and unobstructed peripheral vision, crucial for safety on varied terrain.
Full Venting ventilation prevents fogging, maintaining clear vision in all weather conditions. With their functional design and durable construction, Julbo Fury Spectron 3 CF goggles are a smart choice for trail riders who demand both visual performance and lasting comfort on the trails.
Product features
| Features | Julbo Fury Spectron 3 CF |
|---|---|
| Lens colour | Brown / pink |
| Photochromic | No |
| Interchangeable lenses | Yes |
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of the Julbo Fury Spectron 3 CF :
- Lightweight : The polycarbonate construction ensures a comfortable fit, ideal for long distances without causing fatigue.
- Protection : Spectron 3 CF category 3 glass offers good protection against strong light, which is essential in outdoor environments.
- Panoramic view : The single-screen design allows a wide peripheral view, increasing vigilance and safety on the trails.
- Stability : The Grip Nose inserts and Air Link Temple system ensure a secure fit, even during intense activity.
- Ventilation : Full Venting technology prevents condensation and fogging, ensuring clear vision at all times.
Disadvantages of the pair :
- Specificity of the lenses : Although category 3 lenses are suitable for high light levels, they may perform less well in low light or overcast conditions.
Product ratings and reviews
In summary, the Julbo Fury Spectron 3 CF goggles are well suited to trail runners looking for lightness, protection and wide vision. However, their use could be limited in conditions of variable light and over extremely long periods.
Women's trail goggles: Julbo Ultimate Reactiv Photochromic Performance 0-3
Product presentation
The Julbo Ultimate Reactiv Photochromic Performance 0-3 goggles are designed to meet the needs of trail enthusiasts looking for the very latest equipment for their outdoor adventures.
These goggles feature a tapered profile and lightweight design, ensuring both strength and comfort. The CustomFIT adjustable temples allow precise adjustment for a secure, personalised fit, even in the most dynamic situations. The Grip Tech material ensures that the goggles stay in place without excessive pressure, while the Comfort Fit design makes them compatible with helmets, offering the versatility that sports enthusiasts appreciate.
Featuring the Reactiv Performance 0-3 photochromic lens, these glasses adapt automatically to light intensity, switching from near-total transparency to a darker tint depending on the conditions, making them ideal for use from sunrise to sunset. The anti-fog treatment and Full Venting system effectively prevent fogging, ensuring optimum visibility in all weather conditions.
The extended panoramic view and single-screen design of Julbo Ultimate lenses allow a wide field of vision, crucial for detecting obstacles and fully appreciating the environment. NTS (Non Temperature Sensitive) technology ensures that the lenses react to light without being affected by changes in temperature, delivering consistent, reliable performance.
Product features
| Features | Julbo Ultimate Reactiv Photochromic Performance 0-3 |
|---|---|
| Lens colour | Transparencies |
| Photochromic | Yes |
| Interchangeable lenses | Yes |
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of the Julbo Ultimate Reactiv Photochromic Performance 0-3 :
- Lens adaptability : Reactiv Performance 0-3 photochromic lenses adapt automatically to changes in light levels, providing clear vision from dawn to dusk.
- Personalised comfort : The CustomFIT adjustable temples and 3D Fit Nose wings allow for a precise, personalised fit, increasing comfort and support during activity.
- Panoramic vision : The single-screen design provides a wide field of vision, essential for navigating trails and detecting obstacles.
- Protection and ventilation : The anti-fog treatment and Full Venting system prevent condensation, maintaining clear vision in a variety of weather conditions.
- Lightweight : Weighing just 27g, these glasses are light enough to be worn comfortably for long periods.
Disadvantages of the pair :
- Temperature sensitivity : Despite NTS technology, the performance of photochromic lenses can still be affected by extreme temperature conditions.
- Price : The advanced technologies and high-quality materials used in these glasses can make them more expensive than other, less sophisticated options on the market.
Product ratings and reviews
In short, Julbo Ultimate Reactiv Photochromic Performance 0-3 combines ingenious design with advanced technologies to offer trail runners a superior visual experience, prolonged comfort and seamless adaptability to the outdoor environment.
Questions / Answers about trail goggles
Why wear glasses when trail running?
Wearing trail running glasses is essential for a number of reasons. Firstly, they protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays, which is crucial when running outdoors to prevent long-term damage to your eyesight. Obviously, this is the solution for running in the middle of summer or on a sunny day.
Secondly, they serve to protect the eyes from natural elements such as dust, wind, rain, and even branches or other debris that could be thrown towards the face during the race or your training sessions. This allows you to maintain good visibility and concentrate on the course. What's more, some goggles are fitted with special lenses that improve contrast and visual clarity, helping you to see obstacles and variations in the terrain more clearly.
What are photochromic glasses?
Photochromic glasses are equipped with lenses that react to changes in luminosity. These lenses adapt gradually, darkening when exposed to intense sunlight and brightening in low-light conditions. This type of eyewear is particularly useful for trail running, as lighting conditions can vary considerably, for example when moving from open, sunny areas to shady, wooded areas. It's also practical for running on overcast days, because you get eye protection (against wind, dust and rain) without affecting your vision.
The photochromic lenses eliminates the need to change glasses or lenses depending on the light conditions, offering a practical and effective solution for optimum visibility throughout your runs.
What are the best brands of glasses for trail running?
Several brands are renowned for the quality of their trail running glasses. Here are some of the most popular (and our favourites):
Julbo: This brand specialises in sports eyewear and offers models with advanced lens technologies, including photochromic and polarised lenses, ideal for trail running.
Oakley: Oakley is renowned for its innovation in eyewear design, offering highly resistant and comfortable models with lenses that provide exceptional optical clarity.100%: 100% is known for its bold designs and innovative technologies, particularly for extreme sports. Their eyewear offers superior protection and performance features that meet the rigorous demands of trail running, with high-quality lenses that provide excellent visibility in different light environments.