The new Shimano S-Phyre R and X sunglasses

Shimano has announced their performance range of S-Phyre sunglasses. The line consists of two pairs of sleek looking interchangeable lens frames, the rimless S-Phyre R and the S-Phyre X which feature a thin all around frame design with the bottom being removable.

The glasses are extremely light weighing a mere 25.6 g and 28.6 g respectively according to Shimano. The pro riders on WorldTour Team LottoNL-Jumbo played an important role in the development of the sunglasses. The team has also worked with Shimano developing the S-Phyre apparel and shoes which are also used by the Dutch WorldTour outfit.

The S-Phyre X with the Optimal PL Red MLC lens

The S-Phyre R with the Optimal PL Red MLC lens

S-Phyre R

S-Phyre X

Both pairs of glasses are big maximizing eye protection. A bowed arm design ensures they don’t interfere with helmet straps. The lens is made from Japanese Teijin Policarbonate that offers impact resistance and features an anti-scratch coating. What Shimano calls a Super Hydrophobic coating on the lenses repels water to keep the lens clean.

The glasses are available with multiple lens options. The Optimal PL Red MLC lens offers 16 per cent light transmission for the sunniest of conditions. With a bright red coating, they have a firey red and orange colour. They offer 80 per cent polarization which Shimano says provides better visibility when looking at screens, car glass and puddles on the road.

The photochromic PH Dark Grey-Red lens offers variable light transmission from 13 to 62 per cent. Shimano claims it only takes eight seconds for the lens to adapt from their lightest to darkest point.

Finally a Cloud Mirror lens offers 85 per cent light transmission for darker conditions. It reduces the amount of blue light and maintains the red light hitting the eye for better colour contrast in dim conditions.

The S-Phyre R1 retail for $199.99 and the S-Phyre X1 for $219.99.