BIKERUMOR.com 2009 SEA OTTER CLASSIC COVERAGE: The Giro Cymbal, one of two new style models shown at Sea Otter, is a women’s frame.  The Fader, below left, is a new men’s model.  Prices for these range from $90 to $130 depending on lens options, from basic to polarized.  What sets Giro shades apart is their exclusive sunglass relationship with Zeiss.  Yes, that same Zeiss whose name adorns Sony camera lenses and other high end optics.
The polarization used is an injection, not a laminate, so it won’t rub off.  What was interesting to learn is that Giro sends their designs to Zeiss, then Zeiss tells them if they can create a lens that’ll fit.  Sometimes, the designs have to change in order to allow the lens to meet Zeiss’ standards for optical clarity.
 
 
 
Giro had several other new products, including the Garmin-Slipstream team color Filter model, and two new lense colors: Orange and Yellow.  The Orange has 67% light transmission, the Yellow has 56%.  The pics above show how they look in the bright sun (click to enlarge).  Surprisingly, the orange seemed much brighter, but they were both a bit much for direct light.  They’re intended for cloudier days or under the trees when mountain biking.  We’ve got a set with the Orange lenses on review…
