Self-tinting glasses rethought
Self-tinting lenses have been around for a long time. So-called photochromatic lenses are considered to be the bees knees of sports eyewear. Depending on the prevailing light conditions, the lenses darken or lighten. A darkening effect of up to 90 per cent can now be achieved. The molecules for this are incorporated directly into the lens and are stimulated by UV radiation.
However, there are two problems with this: firstly, the darkening of the lenses takes up to three minutes, depending on the quality, and the brightening time even longer - far too long for the rapid change between light and shade when cycling. And secondly, the phototropic molecules work depending on the temperature. At particularly cold temperatures, they darken more and no longer lighten completely. This causes problems with the self-tinting lenses, especially in winter.
With the new eShades E1, Swiss manufacturer Eyerex aims to overcome these problems and has developed the perfect glasses for sports use.
Eyerex eShades E1: Facts & Figures
- Stepless dimming within 0.1 seconds
- Light sensor without external power source
- 100 % UV protection
- Polycarbonate lenses polarised and cylindrically curved
- Temperature range from -20 to 80 degrees Celsius
- IP54 Dust and splash-proof
- Weight 33 grams
- Price: 329 Euro
How the Eyerex eShades E1 works
Swiss manufacturer Eyerex wants to revolutionise the market for self-tinting sports glasses with a new type of lens technology. This is made possible by an invention that recognises the amount of light present - i.e. what can be perceived by the human eye without technical aids - and passes this information on to the lenses of the eShades.
The lenses consist of two lenses laminated together. The rear lens is a classic polarised lens. The front lens is photoelectric. Depending on the amount of incident light, the atoms in the disc change their position and thus darken or lighten it.
The good thing about this is that the process does not require any external power source, such as a battery, which means that the design of the technology is very compact and the necessary sensor can be housed above the nose clip. In addition, the technology does not work depending on UV radiation, but by measuring the amount of light available - i.e. the lumens. The eShades MTB goggles therefore also darken behind UV light-filtering windscreens. Another positive aspect is that the darkening is infinitely variable, so that the optimum degree of tinting is always achieved.
Unlike conventional photochromic glasses, the technology is also said to work independently of the outside temperature, in a range of -20 to 80 degrees Celsius, which would eliminate another problem with self-tinting sports glasses. The Eyerex eShades are also IP54 dust and splash-proof and can therefore also be used in poor weather conditions, although the manufacturer warns against excessive moisture.
Eyerex eShades E1 in the hand
In terms of the shape of the temples and lenses, the eShades is strongly reminiscent of the Oakley classic Radar. The narrow, curved lenses adapt well to the shape of the face and especially the cheekbones. However, they offer a little less coverage overall and therefore offer less protection against draughts. A larger field of vision, as offered by the current panoramic lenses, would definitely be desirable here.
The nose pieces allow the MTB goggles to be adjusted to the wearer and sit comfortably on the bridge of the nose. At just 31.5 grams, the Eyerex weighs barely more than a standard pair of sports goggles, which is almost sensational considering the high-tech features. Although the temples are extensively rubberised, they cannot be adjusted.
Unfortunately, the feel of the Eyerex eShades cannot quite keep up with other top glasses on the market. Although the plastic is neatly finished, the temples have little tension and are unlikely to offer much support, especially on narrow faces. The lens sits quite wobbly in the frame and creaks when worn, which doesn't quite match the proud price.
Trail test: The Eyerex eShades goggles in practice
On the trail, the surprise is all the greater: you hardly notice the independent tinting of the goggles. The function is truly amazing. The lenses of the Eyerex eShades change tint within the blink of an eye and constantly adapt to the prevailing conditions. Because the process is seamless and does not jump between the on and off positions, the process is neither unpleasant nor surprising for the eyes.
What actually happens in the disc only becomes clear when you look directly into the sun and then cover the sensor with your finger. The Eyerex eShades then switches from dark to light mode within a tenth of a second. In damp conditions, the eShades E1 produced a slight shimmer on leaves or puddles on the ground, which was perceived by the eyes as a somewhat unpleasant reflection.
Excursus: Uvex Variotronic ff
Incidentally, Eyerex is not the first manufacturer to take up the idea of photoelectric windscreen adjustment. Back in 2015, Uvex presented its revolutionary Variotronic technology at Eurobike. Back then, Uvex wanted to put an end to the feeling of flying blind when travelling from light to shadow. Like a kind of micro-louvre blind, liquid crystals incorporated into the lens were intended to either darken or lighten the glasses. The Uvex Variotronic ff had an automatic mode as well as a button for manual switching.
In practice, however, the Uvex was not entirely convincing at the time. The necessary battery and USB connection made the glasses somewhat bulky and heavy and also dependent on a power source. In addition, there were repeated situations in which the automatic system reacted too quickly despite dimmed stray light and irritated the rider with a "flickering" lens. A defect in the LCD screen also revealed the relatively high sensitivity of the high-tech product. The Uvex Variotronic never really arrived on the market.
The alternative: Out Of BOT
Incidentally, there is another pair of glasses with very similar technology on the market, the so-called BOT from Italian manufacturer Out Of. Thanks to a special liquid crystal film, which is powered by a small solar cell and controlled by electronics, the BOT is also supposed to fully and automatically adjust the tint to the prevailing light conditions in less than a second. Unfortunately, the manufacturer's website does not provide any further details on the function. We have already requested a test sample from the manufacturer and will be reporting more about the Out Of BOT soon.
Conclusion: Eyerex eShades E1
Compared to the Uvex Variotronic, the Eyerex eShades have taken a big step forward with their innovative technology. The tinting of the high-tech lenses works amazingly well and is almost unnoticeable to the eye. The absence of an external power source is reflected in the handling and compact design.
The Eyerex eShades could indeed herald a new era in sports eyewear. Unfortunately, the feel and look lag behind the amazing function. A modern design and better workmanship would really be desirable here, especially in view of the asking price of just under 330 euros.
Stefan Frey
Editor
