Doh! We’ve heard from Germany that we got the light transmission wrong: it’s even wider than we thought Updated below…
Even though the brand’s name originally from their eyewear’s ultraviolet protection (UltraViolet EXclusion), Uvex’s sunglasses really haven’t made much of a mark lately. For us, that changed dramatically when we came across the company’s flagship SGL-202 Vario model at Interbike last fall. Barely disturbing the scale at 23g (20% lighter than Smith’s already light Pivlock V2), the SGL-202s feature a visible light sensitive (rather than UV sensitive) lens alongside several other novel features. Now that we have our hands on a set, you can click though for more details and our first impressions…
As promised, the SGL-202s’ Variomatic Smoke lenses transition quickly from 7778% to 179% light transmission when exposed to bright sunlight. As someone who starts his daily commute when the sun has yet to cross the horizon- but finishes the day when the desert sun is going full tilt- this has been ideal. A Variomatic Brown lens is also available to provide a bit more contrast in mixed lighting.
Unsurprisingly, the 23g glasses rest lightly on the face. Though they feel insubstantial, the lightweight and breathable split arms can take a fair amount of abuse, twisting and bending quite a bit before snapping back into shape. The arms are short enough to clear most helmets’ retention systems and have a couple of small gripper pads at their ends. An adjustable nosepiece is always welcome and allows the rider to get the glasses as close to or far from the face/cheeks as desired.
The frameless design doesn’t allow for easy lens exchanges- but so far the Variomatic lenses have been spot-on. After the first minute or so after stepping outside at midday, I have yet to want for more or less tint while riding. The oleophobic coating that allowed me to cleanly wipe Sharpie has kept other, more common crud from accumulating- but does make the back of the lenses feel sticky under a cleaning cloth.
The SGL-202 Varios are available to shops and consumers in the US through Magura Direct and retail for $160. Check back in a couple of months for a full-fledged review…
marc
