Chengyu Jun
10 min readSep 20, 2024

When you ride a motorcycle outdoors, besides a helmet, are goggles your essential protective gear you? I think most people don’t wear it.

Outdoor riding, especially off-road riding when it is recommended that you had better wear, it not only protects your eyes, but also can make the ride more comfortable and safe. Depending on the riding environment, the choice of goggles will be different. Let me talk to you about several types and features of goggles, and filter the most suitable style for you.

What are the types of outdoor riding goggles?

There are many types of motorcycle riding goggles, which are common or often used in our daily life on the following models, let’s take a look at what styles are available!

1. Off-road riding goggles

If you like to ride in the mountains or on the dirt, off-road riding goggles are a must-have for you. These goggles are very durable and impact-resistant, keep out dirt and gravel, and have a large lens design that allows you to see more clearly in complex terrain.

For off-road riding, choose this style, which is specialized for off-road riding, and check its sealing and anti-fog function when you use it, so that you can keep your vision clear in all kinds of weather.

2. Retro city riding goggles

Retro style goggles are not only stylish but also comfortable for short city rides. They have a classic design, lightweight materials and are comfortable to wear.

If you are concerned about fashion and comfort, go for vintage style goggles. See how comfortable and breathable it is, and make sure it has basic UV protection.

3. Desert Riding Goggles

Desert riding goggles are especially useful when riding in the desert or similar dry environments. They are effective at blocking out sand and strong sunlight, and they also prevent the lenses from fogging up.

When dealing with desert sand, choosing a goggle that is dust, wind and UV resistant is key. Also, make sure the ventilation is well designed to keep your vision clear.

4. Highway Riding Goggles

Generally highway riding goggles are designed to be very stable, as they fit closely to the face in order to effectively protect against wind. A high-quality lens ensures a clear view and is scratch-resistant.

For frequent highway riding, look for this style that is stable, windproof and high definition. Also check the quality and clarity of the lenses to see if they are adjustable to fit different riding postures.

5. All-weather riding goggles

All-weather cycling goggles are generally able to cope with a wide range of weather and light conditions, and are usually equipped with an interchangeable lens system and a strong anti-fog feature.

If you need a goggle that can adapt to a variety of weather and light conditions, all-weather goggles are a good choice. When using them, it’s recommended to check the ease of the lens replacement system and the variety of lens types, as well as making sure that both wearing comfort and protection are in place.

So, whether you’re an off-road junkie, an urban cyclist, or a highway windrider, you’ll find the right goggles for you!

What are the features of these goggles

Motorcycle goggle types we have roughly understood, so what are the outstanding features of these types of goggles? Different features meet the needs of different riding scenarios, such as dustproof, windproof, UV resistant and so on. Let’s talk about the characteristics of various types of goggles, to help you find the most suitable one for yourself, so that every ride is more enjoyable!

1. Off-road riding goggles

(1) Impact Resistant: These goggles are made of impact resistant TPU material that protects your eyes even in rough terrain.

(2) Dust and Sand Resistant: Due to the sealing design of the frame it can effectively block dirt and sand and keep your vision clear.

(3) Large Field of View: The curved large lenses give you a wider field of view, allowing you to see farther and clearer in complex terrain.

(4) Ventilation and Breathable: With ventilation holes design, you won’t feel uncomfortable when wearing them for a long time, and the fog is not easy to produce.

2. Retro style cycling goggles

(1) Classic design: round or aviator-style design is especially personalized, and it can show your style while riding.

(2) Lightweight and comfortable: made of lightweight materials, they hardly feel heavy to wear and are especially suitable for urban short-distance riding.

(3) Moderate protection: it can prevent general wind and sand and ultraviolet rays, which is very suitable for city riding or township highway.

(4) Multi-scenario: not only for riding, but also as an accessory in daily life, adding charm to your personality.

3.Desert Goggles

(1) Comprehensive protection: specially designed for desert environment, can effectively block sand and wind sand, protect your eyes.

(2) Strong UV Protection: The lenses have strong UV protection, which can reduce the damage of sunlight to your eyes.

(3) Anti-fog function: Ventilation holes and anti-fog coating are designed to ensure that your vision remains clear in the hot and dry environment of the desert.

(4) Durability: The materials used are especially wear and corrosion resistant, and can be used for a long time even in harsh environments.

4. Highway Riding Goggles

(1) Tight Fit: The frame design can fit closely to the face, preventing high-speed wind from blowing into the eyes and reducing eye discomfort.

(2) High Definition Field of View: High quality lenses ensure a clear and distortion-free field of view, improving your riding safety.

(3) Anti-scratch: The surface of the lenses has an anti-scratch coating to increase durability.

(4) Windproof and noise reduction: Some models also have windproof and noise reduction function to make your riding more comfortable.

5. All-weather multifunctional goggles

(1) Interchangeable lenses: Equipped with a variety of lenses, you can change them at any time according to different light conditions to adapt to all kinds of weather.

(2) Anti-fog treatment: The lenses are treated with anti-fog to keep your vision clear no matter what the weather is like.

(3) Comfortable to wear: the design is ergonomic and comfortable to wear for a long time.

(4) Multi-functional: not only for riding, but also for other outdoor activities or daily driving, very cost-effective.

Therefore, understanding the characteristics of goggles can make you more clear about picking the right goggles, avoiding unnecessary trouble, so that you can get comprehensive protection and comfortable experience when riding, so that every trip is full of fun and protection!

Which scenarios are these motorcycle goggles best suited for

What scenarios are these goggles best suited for? Choosing the right goggles can really take your riding experience to the next level. Whether you’re exploring the mountains, touring the city, traversing the desert, or speeding down the highway, goggles can provide a different kind of protection. Learn about the different scenarios or different goggles best suited for below!

1. Off-road riding goggles

(1) Mountain riding: these goggles are really protective, especially in rugged mountains, they can effectively protect your eyes from rocks and branches flying into them. The lenses are large and have a wide field of view, helping you see your surroundings better.

(2) Mud traversing: In muddy terrain, mud and gravel can easily splash into your eyes. The dustproof design of the off-road goggles can effectively block these debris and keep your vision clear.

(3) Jungle Adventure: In the dense jungle, the goggles can protect you from the interference of tree branches, insects, etc., which is especially reassuring when riding.

2. Retro style riding goggles

(1) City streets: Retro style goggles look especially stylish, whether you are commuting to work or traveling on weekends, they can attract a lot of attention in the city. Plus, they’re comfortable for short rides.

(2) Country roads: when riding on country lanes, these goggles not only provide basic protection, but also show your personality.

(3) Short trips: When traveling short distances, retro goggles are practical and decorative, which are very suitable.

3. Desert Specialized Goggles

(1) Desert traversing: In the vast desert, sand and strong sunlight is a great challenge to the eyes. Desert-specific goggles can effectively block sand and dust, but also provide strong UV protection, so you can see clearly and well protected.

(2) High-temperature environment: Hot and dry climates are very harmful to the eyes, these goggles are designed with high-temperature environments in mind and can prevent your eyes from overheating.

(3) Extreme Weather: In places with high wind and sand or frequent sandstorms, these goggles can keep the field of vision clear and ensure the safety of your eyes.

4. Highway Riding Goggles

(1) Highway Riding: When you ride on the highway, these goggles fit closely to your face, which can effectively reduce wind resistance and noise, and make your ride more comfortable.

(2) Long-distance traveling: If you like long-distance riding, these goggles can ensure comfort and clear vision, and you won’t feel fatigue when wearing them for a long time.

(3) Racing: In racing, the stability and protection of the goggles can make you perform better on the track.

5. All-weather multi-functional goggles

(1) Variable weather: Whether it is sunny, cloudy or rainy, the interchangeable lenses of the all-weather goggles can help you adapt to different lighting conditions.

(2) All-weather use: Whether it’s morning, noon or evening, these goggles provide proper protection and clear vision.

(3) Multi-functional scenarios: not only for cycling, but also for other outdoor sports or driving, which is highly practical.

I hope these using experiences can help you find the most suitable goggles for you. With the right goggles, your riding will be safer and more comfortable. Each type of goggles has its unique advantages, remember to choose according to your riding environment to ensure that every ride is fun and secure!

How to Pick Qualified Motorcycle Goggles

Choosing the right goggles is very much important for the safety and comfort of your ride. Here are some tips for picking goggles to help you find the best one for you. In a nutshell, I’ve broken down the essentials of picking out goggles into three parts: the lens, the frame, and the elastic band. The rest of the extra craftsmanship is like a plus point.

1. Off-road riding goggles

(1) Lens Material

Suggestion: Choose polycarbonate lenses.

Reason: This material is very resistant to impacts and is perfect for the challenges of off-road riding.

Thickness: roughly between 1.5 and 2 millimeters is more appropriate.

(2) Frame Material

Recommendation: High-strength plastic or synthetic material.

Reason: This material can better withstand the impact and abrasion in off-road and protect your eyes from injury.

(3) Elastic band design

Suggestion: between 30 and 40 millimeters in width and adjustable.

Reason: This will ensure that the goggles are firm and comfortable during long rides.

2. Retro style cycling goggles

(1) Lens material

Recommendation: High-quality plastic lenses, such as polycarbonate.

Reason: These lenses provide basic UV protection while maintaining a clear field of vision.

Thickness: 1 to 1.5 millimeters is a good choice.

(2) Frame design

Recommendation: Aluminum alloy or high-quality plastic.

Rationale: These materials are in keeping with vintage style, but are also lightweight and durable, and not easily damaged.

(3) Wearing comfort

Suggestion: Choose a design with a soft inner lining, such as leather or foam.

Reason: This will ensure that you won’t feel uncomfortable when wearing them for a long time.

3. Goggles for the desert

(1) Lens function

Suggestion: Choose lenses that are UV and scratch resistant.

Reason: The light in the desert is strong and there is a lot of sand and dust, so this kind of lens can provide better protection.

Thickness: Preferably above 2mm to cope with extreme conditions.

(2) Frame material

Suggestion: Use materials that are resistant to high temperatures, such as silicone or TPU.

Reason: These materials can remain durable in high-temperature environments and do not deform easily.

(3) Anti-fog and ventilation design

Suggestion: Choose goggles with ventilation holes and anti-fog coating.

Reason: This will keep the field of vision clear and improve the comfort of wearing them at the same time.

4. Highway Riding Goggles

(1) Lens clarity

Suggestion: Choose high clarity lenses, preferably made of polycarbonate.

Reason: When traveling at high speed, you need a clear vision to ensure safety.

Thickness: 1.5 to 2 millimeters can provide good protection.

(2) Frame design

Recommendation: Choose a lightweight and sturdy frame.

Reason: This reduces wind resistance and noise and improves riding comfort.

(3) Elastic band stability

Suggestion: Straps with a width of 25 to 35 millimeters, preferably with an anti-slip feature.

Reason: This will ensure the stability of the goggles at high speed.

5. All-weather multifunctional goggles

(1) Lens function

Recommendation: Choose a design that supports replacement of lenses.

Reason: This can adjust the lens according to different light conditions and adapt to all kinds of weather.

Function: Ensure that the goggles have UV protection and scratch resistance.

(2) Frame Adaptability

Suggestion: Choose flexible materials such as TPU or silicone.

Reason: These materials are adaptable and can keep you comfortable in various weather conditions.

(3) Anti-fog and comfort design

Recommendation: Choose goggles with an anti-fog coating and comfort lining.

Reason: This improves wearing comfort while maintaining a clear field of vision.

Therefore, when selecting goggles, consider different goggles according to their characteristics and usage scenarios, and then choose the right goggles according to your riding needs, which will not only improve the safety of riding, but also increase the comfort.

Conclusion

Choosing the right motorcycle goggles is crucial to ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. Whether you’re doing off-road riding, short city trips, or highway driving, understanding the features and functions of different types of goggles can help you find the best fit. Remember to choose the right lenses, frames and designs to enhance your riding experience, depending on your riding environment and personal needs.