Cycling glasses: self-tinting lenses vs. interchangeable lenses – which is better?

Hannah Neuhauser
24.03.2025

When buying a new bicycle glasses, sooner or later the question arises: self -tinting glasses be or rather one Glasses with changers? But what exactly does that mean - and which system better suits your requirements? We take a closer look at both glass concepts and show you the respective advantages and disadvantages.

Self -denning sunglasses naked optics

Self -tinting sports glasses - a real game changer?

As the name suggests, fit self -tinting (also photochromatic) Glasses automatically to the lighting conditions. In strong sunlight, they darken up - in little light they brighten up again. Sounds like the perfect all -rounder, isn't it?

And yes, one Self -tinting glasses Can be particularly practical if you have changing lighting conditions during your exit, but no desire or way of swapping glasses. So you only need glasses for a wide variety of conditions - from a bright sun to a covered sky.

But: Unfortunately, the whole thing doesn't work without any compromises.

The pitfalls of technology

The tinting process usually takes around 30 seconds or longer, depending on the model. That means: in the event of a sudden change - for example, if you drive into a tunnel or come into a dense forest section - it may be that you see too little at short notice. In addition, the tinting hangs not only from the brightness, but primarily from the UV radiation.

This can lead to problems - for example when driving. Although the sun pans through the windshield, the glass filter out the UV radiation. The result: the glasses remains too bright. Conversely, it can darken too much on cloudy days because UV radiation also penetrates through clouds.

The temperature also plays a role: On cold days, photochrome glasses usually work better than in heat - Because the chemical reaction, which is responsible for the tinting effect, is sensitive to temperature.

Sports glasses with exchange glasses - flexible on all routes

Admittedly, Sports glasses with exchange glasses Look a little old school compared to the "smart" self -tint. But this is exactly where your advantage is: You keep full control.

You can not only select the glasses depending on the light ratio, but also according to glass color and desired effect:

  • Dark, gray glasses: ideal in the sun - they reduce brightness and protect against glare.
  • Orange or violet glasses: reinforce contrasts and depth perception - great with cloudy sky or forest passages.
  • Clear glasses: perfect at dusk or night trips.

So you can react more specifically to your route and weather conditions - and have the right glass for every situation. In addition, you are not dependent on chemical reactions, but can change in seconds.

Conclusion: what better suits you?

Whether you choose self -tinting bicycle glasses or a model with changers depends above all on your area of ​​application and personal preferences:

Do you want a simple all-in-one solution without much effort and mostly drive in similar lighting conditions? → Then self -tinting glasses are a good choice.

You are on the road in any weather and on a wide variety of routes and want to get the best out of every situation? → Then changing glasses could be the better option for you.

With this knowledge you are well prepared for your next glasses. You want more about that Differences between different changers experience? Then look into this blog post - There you will find everything you need to know!

Credits: Elias Neier

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