10 best smart cycling glasses

Smart cycling glasses are advanced eyewear integrating technology like heads-up displays (HUDs), GPS, cameras, and sensors to enhance the riding experience. They combine traditional cycling glasses’ protection (UV shielding, wind resistance) with augmented reality (AR) or audio features to deliver real-time data without distracting the rider.

What Makes Smart Cycling Glasses Revolutionary for Riders

Smart cycling glasses are revolutionizing how cyclists interact with technology on the road. Unlike traditional eyewear, they integrate augmented reality (AR), GPS navigation, and real-time performance tracking to keep riders safer, more informed, and connected. By overlaying data like speed, heart rate, and turn-by-turn directions directly into your field of vision, they eliminate the need to glance at a phone or bike computer. For commuters, racers, and casual riders alike, these glasses bridge the gap between safety, convenience, and cutting-edge tech.

Key features of Smart Cycling Glasses

In this section, we will take a deep dive into the core specifications and tech of these smart cycling glasses. We will divide the core specifications into 7 subheadings. These subheadings will include, Display technology, connectivity and sensors, battery and power management, camera and recording, audio technology, durability and ergonomics and software and app integration.

Display Technology

Smart cycling glasses rely on advanced optics to overlay data without obstructing vision:

Heads-Up Display (HUD) Types:

• OLED/LED Microdisplays: Used in premium models like Everysight Raptor AR, these project crisp, full-color visuals (e.g., speed, maps) onto a transparent lens.
• LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon): Found in older models like Oakley Airwave 2.0, offering lower power consumption but less vibrant colours.
• Monocular vs. Binocular: Most glasses use a single-eye display (monocular) to reduce bulk, but binocular designs (e.g., Vuzix Blade) offer wider fields of view.

Resolution & Brightness:

The glasses have HD (1280×720) resolution or higher for text clarity. 1,000+ nits brightness (e.g., Everysight Raptor AR) for visibility in direct sunlight.

Field of View (FoV):

Ranges from 15° (narrow) to 30° (immersive). Wider FoV improves situational awareness but drains the battery faster.

Connectivity & Sensors

Wireless Protocols:

• Bluetooth 5.0+: For pairing with smartphones, heart rate straps, or earbuds.
• ANT+: Critical for syncing with cycling-specific sensors (power meters, cadence sensors).
• Wi-Fi: Used for firmware updates or uploading ride footage (e.g., Everysight Raptor AR).

Sensors:

• Accelerometer/Gyroscope: Tracks speed, elevation, and ride dynamics.
• Ambient Light Sensor: Auto-adjusts display brightness (e.g., Garmin Varia Vision).
• Heart Rate Monitors: Some models include built-in optical HR sensors (e.g., Solos 2.0).
• Radar Integration: Garmin Varia Vision pairs with bike-mounted radar to detect vehicles up to 140 meters behind.

Battery & Power Management

Battery Capacity:

Most smart cycling glasses have 300–600 mAh batteries, offering 4–10 hours of active use. Solos 2.0 leads with 10+ hours; budget models like Cyclops HUD Lite last ~4 hours.

Charging:

These smart cycling glasses use USB-C fast charging (1–2 hours for full charge). Wireless charging in premium models (e.g., Vuzix Blade).

Power-Saving Modes:

They also have Auto-sleep when idle and Display dimming in low-light conditions. This helps to reduce the power consumption of the glasses to increase the battery life.

Camera & Recording

Resolution:

The smart cycling glasses mostly feature 8MP–12MP for photos (e.g., Everysight Raptor AR). 1080p–4K video at 30–60 fps.

Stabilization:

They feature an EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) that reduces shake for smoother footage.

Storage:

Most smart cycling glasses have 8GB–32GB internal storage (supports microSD in some models). Auto-upload to the cloud via Wi-Fi (premium feature) for more expensive models.

Audio Technology

Bone Conduction:

Vibrations transmit sound through cheekbones (e.g., Zungle Viper Pro), leaving ears open. Lower audio quality but is safer for traffic-heavy routes.

Open-Ear Speakers:

Directional speakers (e.g., Bose Frames Tempo) project sound near the ear. Better bass and clarity but can leak noise in quiet areas.

Microphones:

Noise-cancelling mics for clear calls in windy conditions.

Durability & Ergonomics

Lens Tech:

• Polarized Lenses: Reduce glare (e.g., Razer Anzu).
• Photochromic Lenses: Auto-tint in bright light (e.g., Oakley Airwave 2.0).
• Interchangeable Lenses: For low-light or night riding.

Frame Materials:

• Grilamid TR-90: Lightweight and flexible (common in Bose Frames).
• Carbon Fiber: Premium durability (e.g., Everysight Raptor AR).

Water Resistance:

IPX4 (splash-proof) to IP67 (dust/waterproof).

Software & App Integration

Navigation:

Turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps, Komoot, or Strava.

Fitness Tracking:

Syncs with Strava, TrainingPeaks, or Zwift for performance analysis.

Voice Control:

Alexa/Google Assistant integration (e.g., Vuzix Blade).

AI Coaching:

Real-time feedback on cadence, power, or posture (e.g., Solos 2.0).

Top 10 Smart Cycling Glasses (Ranked by Features & Value)

Grades of smart cycling glasses based on display quality, battery life, usability, cycling-specific features, and price.

1. Everysight Raptor AR
   • Specs: OLED HUD, 12MP camera, ANT+/Bluetooth, 8-hour battery.
   • Pros: Full AR navigation, Strava integration, voice control, UV/glare protection.
   • Cons: Bulky design, expensive ($699).
   • Grade: A-
   • Official website
2. Garmin Varia Vision
   • Specs: Monocular HUD, radar integration, 8-hour battery, ANT+/Bluetooth.
   • Pros: Seamless Garmin ecosystem pairing, radar alerts for approaching vehicles.
   • Cons: No camera, limited standalone use.
   • Grade: B+
   • Official website
3. Oakley Airwave 2.0
   • Specs: Micro-LED HUD, GPS, Bluetooth, 6-hour battery.
   • Pros: Premium Oakley lenses, snow/sports mode, lightweight.
   • Cons: Older model, no camera, pricey ($599).
   • Grade: B+
   • Official website
4. Vuzix Blade Upgraded (2023)
   • Specs: HD monocular display, Alexa/Google Assistant, 6-hour battery.
   • Pros: Sleek urban design, voice commands, app compatibility.
   • Cons: Limited cycling-specific metrics.
   • Grade: B
   • Official website
5. Solos Smart Glasses 2.0
   • Specs: AR display, voice coaching, 10-hour battery, Bluetooth.
   • Pros: AI-powered training feedback, lightweight, long battery.
   • Cons: Requires subscription for advanced features.
   • Grade: B
   • Official website
6. Bose Frames Tempo
   • Specs: Open-ear audio, GPS, 5.5-hour battery, UV protection.
   • Pros: Premium sound quality, sweat-resistant, sport-focused.
   • Cons: No visual HUD, audio-only.
   • Grade: B-
   • Official website
7. Radar Pace (by Recon)
   • Specs: Voice coaching, ANT+ sensor sync, 6-hour battery.
   • Pros: Rugged build, real-time performance analytics.
   • Cons: Discontinued (available refurbished), outdated design.
   • Grade: B-
   • Official website
8. Razer Anzu
   • Specs: Polarized lenses, Bluetooth audio, touch controls, 5-hour battery.
   • Pros: Affordable ($199), stylish, UV/blue light filtering.
   • Cons: No HUD, basic features.
   • Grade: C+
   • Official website
9. Zungle Viper Pro
   • Specs: Bone conduction audio, 6-hour battery, UV400 lenses.
   • Pros: Lightweight, budget-friendly ($149), decent sound.
   • Cons: No display, limited app support.
   • Grade: C+
10. Cyclops HUD Lite
    • Specs: Basic HUD, Bluetooth, 4-hour battery, polarized lenses.
    • Pros: Entry-level price ($129), speed/distance tracking.
    • Cons: Low-resolution display, short battery life.
    • Grade: C

Budget vs. Premium smart cycling smart glasses

• Premium Picks ($500+):
  • Everysight Raptor AR and Oakley Airwave 2.0 offer AR displays, long battery life, and rugged builds.
  • Worth It If: You race professionally or demand top-tier navigation/tracking.
• Mid-Range (200–200–500):
  • Garmin Varia Vision and Solos 2.0 balance safety and training features.
  • Worth It If: You commute daily or train seriously.
• Budget (<$200):
  • Razer Anzu and Zungle Viper Pro focus on audio and basic protection.
  • Worth It If: You want tech-enhanced eyewear without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

For tech-savvy cyclists, smart glasses are a leap forward in convenience and safety. Models like the Everysight Raptor AR justify their price with AR innovation, while budget picks like Razer Anzu make the tech accessible. As the industry evolves, expect lighter designs and smarter integrations—making now a great time to upgrade your ride.

Final Tip
Test comfort and display visibility before buying. What works for a mountain biker might frustrate a road racer. Prioritize your needs: safety (radar), training (AR), or simplicity (audio).