Eyewear focus

01_________

Any compromises?

• First, let’s start with the obvious question when buying entry-level products – just where are the compromises made or corners cut compared to the higher-end products? Is it better to save up for eyewear that costs over £100? Or can you find sunnies with capable performance and durability qualities at under £80?

“There are, of course, concessions made with cheaper glasses, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not very good,” says Thomas Plummer, the head of Madison Apparel. “For example, very expensive glasses might have better optical clarity in the lenses, or be a bit lighter, but the difference between those and expensive glasses won’t be like night and day. Cheaper glasses also tend to lack the customisation options that some more expensive models have, limiting your choice.”

“The difference between cheaper and more expensive glasses won’t be like night and day. Very expensive glasses may have better optical clarity or be a bit lighter”

02_________

Dual protection

• The chief reason for sunglasses comes in two forms. Firstly, the lens will deflect debris that’s flicked up from the road and block dust whipped up from hot summer days. “They also protect you from the sun’s rays, which is even more important when climbing, say Alpe d’Huez, as UV radiation increases by 5-7% for every 1,000ft rise in altitude,” says The Science of the Tour de France author James Witts.

When looking at lower-priced and budget sunglasses – sport or otherwise – you also want to ensure they meet