Rudy Project
Tralyx+ Sunglasses with Photochromic lenses
Review by Robert Thorpe
There’s something comforting about Rudy Project for me. You immediately know that the product will be of the highest quality, well designed, extremely comfortable and perform superbly. Yes, that ultimate balance that all cyclists and athletes seek in any product. I’ve used the Tralyx sunglasses before, and they were my favourites. I especially like the Rudy Project photochromic lenses, as we can’t always rely on great weather in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Design and style
When we do see the sun, it can be a passing mirage, and so we need glasses that easily adjust to the light and conditions – the new Rudy Project Tralyx+ sunglasses do just that, and they do so in just the right way and at just the right speed. Your eyes get a chance to adjust as the lens does its magic. In terms of style, the wide, wrap around and sweeping lens design is stylishly modern and effective on the bike. The top bar and sides are well made from superior plastics, and well put together. Best of all, the nose bridge is well fixed and easy to adjust, giving the sunglasses a stable feel. Rudy Project have also ensured that the new Tralyx+ come with their new temple tips, which are fully adjustable to further customize comfort fit and to improve stability.
Add to this, that the lens of the latest Tralyx+ model has amazing clarity, and you’re onto a winner when riding roads that twist and turn, and throw all manner of potential hazards your way – even the odd wildlife racing across your path! Yes, the vision is crystal clear, and there’s no fogging or warm weather/ moisture beading issues to cope with, as you often get with many other brands.
Lens clarity
Cleaning the lens at the start of the day is all that’s required; 6 well placed and well-designed air vents that sit below the top bar keep the lens well-ventilated and maximise air flow, whilst stopping moisture/ sweat from beading down onto the lens. In all honesty, there’s been a few occasions when I’ve literally forgotten that I was wearing sunglasses, such has been the view out front and the comfort. When you’re looking for the best cycling sunglasses, one of the most important things has to be the clarity of the lens. Cheaply made lenses will fog up, bead up, scratch easily, and perform as though you’re looking through a cheap photographic filter. There’s a reason why Rudy Project sunglasses have remained at the top of the industry for so many years, and it’s called innovation and excellence – so let’s accept that it makes a difference.
These Tralyx+ sunglasses come with the latest Rudy Project ImpactX® lens system. We tested the black photochromic lens and frames, which we believe are a perfect choice for a variety of kit option matches. Rudy Project brand market these lenses for their ‘visual clarity for superior performance’ and I can see why – literally! They are truly game-changing and worth the investment for any cyclist. Buy well once, instead of buying badly too many times. The ImpactX® lens are the best lenses for resisting impacts and adapting to any light. ImpactX® lenses offer that necessary exceptional vision for every adventure, on two wheels or two feet. I tend to use them out hiking and scrambling too. I know that these sunglasses will look after my eyes and stay reliable in every way – the decision is as clear as the ImpactX® lens itself.
Now for the science
Okay then, it’s time to talk tech and to tell you what makes these Rudy Project Tralyx+ sunglasses probably the best cycling sunglasses in the world. First of all, ImpactX® lenses are 16% lighter than CR-39 and 10% lighter than polycarbonate. They offer superior visual quality, reduced rainbow effect, and optimal photochromic adjustment for unparalleled visual comfort – yep, and it’s all true. In use, they have an unmatched durability and strength; reducing the possibility of that all too familiar lens crack’ that we often see too soon with other lesser brands. These semi-rigid lenses provide advanced protection from impacts, chemicals, and environmental factors. Made in Italy should mean something, and for cyclists choosing Rudy Project, it does with the latest Tralyx+ sunglasses.
The lens is layered in its production, with various coatings applied at each layer, to give the final lens a toughness and performance that is frankly on a par with any other cycling or adventure sports sunglasses available today. And, for those requiring corrective vison alongside their sunglasses, you’ll be pleased to know that Rudy Project provide semi rimless Rx Insert for Shield Sunglasses. In effect, you can fit prescription lenses and actually see what’s in front of you – an important issue for many, we understand.
Photochromic lens
ImpactX photochromic lenses quickly adapt to light changes, providing optimal visibility and complete UV protection. Ideal for sports enthusiasts and outdoor activities due to their durability.
Overall, the question is, do we recommend these Rudy Project Tralyx+ sunglasses and are they worth the investment? Of course they are, and not only because they’re made by one of the world’s leading cycling sunglasses brands.
They actually do everything that they claim and more. They’re also amazingly comfortable, clear and stylish; and, whilst we may not see the sun as often as we’d like to, we can at least look after our eyes properly and with quality and style in perfect harmony. Yes, thanks to the new Rudy Project Tralyx+ photochromic sunglasses, you can ride into a brighter and clearer future!
Rudy Project design and produce some of the best road cycling sunglasses in the world. They’ve got an extensive range of stylishly modern cycling sunglasses to suit everyone. Check out their latest range on the Rudy Project website today – click here
Rudy Project
