Since 1986, North Shore-based Ryders Eyewear has been inspired by a drive for adventure and has gained a reputation for hard-working glasses and goggles, whether your sport of choice is mountain biking, cycling, hiking or power walks.
Ryders began at a time when mountain biking was gaining momentum. As they see it, both cycling and endurance sports present the most challenging and unique environments for eyewear. All Ryders lenses protect wearers from 100% of UVA, UVB and UVC rays as well as harmful, high-energy visible light to 400nm, no matter what the tint.
From clear to dark, Ryders lenses offer the same UV protection; all lenses are moulded from polycarbonate, a material used in bulletproof glass, riot shields — even astronaut visors!
Since we’re both outdoors enthusiasts, we decided to check out a few pairs from their vast collection for men and women.
Fifth Polarized
The Fifth Polarized has a classic, semi-rim design with lenses that eliminate glare and ambient haze, for enhanced definition and the ability to see through reflections.
They’re fitted with injected polarized lenses, eliminating the need for adhesives and other imperfections that could otherwise affect clarity. Each lens contains a scratch-resistant, hydrophobic finish along with a premium anti-reflective coating on the back for an added layer of protection.
The coating safeguards your eyes from UV light that could otherwise bounce into your dilated pupils off the back of the lens (causing potential retina damage). In addition, there’s frame venting to increase air flow.
They ship with small-sized adjustable nose pads already mounted, however if those aren’t a proper fit, Ryders also includes two additional sizes – medium and large – to properly customize your fit.
Lens Technology
– Hydrophobic lens (water beads off the lens when wet)
– Hydrophilic nose pads and temple tips
They fit very comfortably; the large-lens glasses fully protect your eyes from the sun’s glare. I noticed that my vision is enhanced with these lenses. I’ve tried them on longer hikes and bike rides and they’ve held their own. It’s safe to say that these are now my go-to glasses for any outdoor activity.
The Fifth Polarized is also sold in an antiFOG lens option. In Gloss White-Grey with Rose lens or Matte Black-Grey with Grey lens (both in medium-large fit); CAD $89.99
Jackson Standard
The easy-going, casual Jackson Standard offers the same 100% protection from UVA, UVB and UVC rays as well as harmful, high energy light to 400nm. According to Ryders, this is the standard from which more technical lenses are built, with a more budget-friendly price point.
The Jackson lenses enhance your eyesight with a warm and clear light orange/brown glow which is very comfortable for your eyes, and makes being out in the sun more enjoyable.
They’re one size fits all, and fit me comfortably without squeezing my temples too hard. I’ve been really impressed with the quality of the lenses seamlessly integrated with the matte black frame design.
The Jackson Standards also have premium hydrophobic and scratch-resistant coatings and are available in two versions: Matte Black/Brown lens (CAD $59.99) and Black-Green/Green lens (CAD $49.99).
Serra Polarized
I was looking for a quality, day-to-day pair of sunglasses that would both protect my eyes and look stylish on city rides. Ryder’s Red Dot-award-winning Serra Polarized ticked both boxes for me.
They open and shut with a very sturdy movement and are lightweight to wear. Ryders also made these impact- and scratch-resistant with an ultra durable and flexible frame.
A tiny packet of adjustable nose pads ships with them (in medium and large; the glasses come with small ones installed) for a more customized fit.
In Black with Grey lens, Xtal Opal Blue with Rose lens and Demi Brown lens. CAD $99.99
