Many riders are in the same boat – wanting to wear cycling glasses while out riding but needing to carry a pair of readers for that coffee stop or check of the phone.
From the early to mid-40s many of us notice a deterioration in close-range vision – especially when reading or working with the various screens that seem to dominate our lives these days.
BZ Optics photo chromatic +1.50 bi focal cycling sunglasses, perfect for riders enduring ‘the blurry 40’s’.
Of course itâs wise to regularly visit an optometrist for periodic checks – not just for eye health but the many diseases that can also be diagnosed via the ocular system.Â
That said, many of us are able to successfully manage a slight decrease in vision via the use of quality pair of âreadersâ – the low magnification glasses often available from the local pharmacy. And while these are great for reading or working on a computer, they donât help when out on the bike.Â
Australian eyewear company and Clare Classic partner BZ Optics have come up the perfect solution for those in need of close-range vision assistance but not yet ready to go all out and have prescription lenses fitted to our cycling glasses.
Top Quality photo chromatic bi focals
With the companyâs unique PHO range, BZ Optics have produced a series of high-quality photo chromatic bi focal lensed glasses that combine sporty styling with the practicality of subtle bi focal lenses.
BZ Optics photo chromatic bi focals are available in available in +1.50, +2.00 and +2.50 powers.
Putting the BZ Optics bifocals to the test on a recent ride, we soon realised these were the perfect solution for those who donât want to ride with reading glasses, but paradoxically donât want to leave them at home.
For the past year or so Iâve got into the habit of slipping a pair of readers into a jersey pocket in case they are needed along the way.Â
Invariably they come in handy while checking the phone for emails, mid-ride messages at the cafe, or stopping for a photo or two. As essential as they are, a second pair of specs is something Iâd rather not carry while out cycling.Â
Wide Range Of Options
I chose the +1.50âs, the closest match to my current set of trusty readers. Otherâs in the BZ Optics range are +2.00 and +2.50. Not having previously used bi focals, it took about 10 to 15 minutes to get used to the position of the inserts neatly situated in the lower inner corners of the lens.Â
Soon into the local loop I soon got in the habit of lowering my eyes (not my head) to check the bike computer. To quickly glance and see the display data in large clear, sharp, text is a joy – close range clarity youâll quickly get used to.
BZ Optics are available in a wide range of colours and lens options.
Similarly, when at the cafe along the way it was great to be able to enjoy a coffee in the bright sunshine while glancing down at the mobile phone and see the screen with no trouble at all, and the readers still in the jersey pocket.
From Clear To Dark
Back on the road and the photochromatic lenses transitioned from clear to dark quickly and efficiently making the PHOs perfect for early starts or all-day rides. Walk outside and youâll see the change, ride from bright sun through to a heavily treed and shaded section of road, as we did during the test, and the BZâs will lighten accordingly. This was particularly useful when riding a dark, shadowy descent at speed with clear, bright vision being critical for safety.
With the PHO range BZ Optics have successfully developed sunglasses that can be used at all hours of the day. They feature a lightweight flexible frame and replaceable lenses held in with small but secure clips. Other than being very light at only 27 grams, they feel exceptionally sturdy in the hand. They stayed securely in place while underway without the need to be periodically pushed up.
Lenses are available in photochromatic (clear in low light), blue mirror and a new HD Copper tint. Frames are available in black, white, fluro green or hot pink and replacement lenses are available.
The recommended retail price of the BZ Optics photo chromatic bi focals is $199. For further details visit www.bzoptics.com
