Oakley Sutro: Cycling Sunglasses Review

by Alex Braham 40 views

Let's dive into the Oakley Sutro cycling sunglasses, guys! If you're serious about your cycling, you know how crucial it is to have the right gear. And when it comes to protecting your eyes and enhancing your vision on the road, a good pair of sunglasses is non-negotiable. The Oakley Sutro has been making waves in the cycling world, and for good reason. In this review, we'll break down everything you need to know about these shades, from their design and features to their performance and value.

Design and Aesthetics

The first thing you'll notice about the Oakley Sutro is its distinctive, shield-style lens. This isn't your typical, understated cycling eyewear. The Sutro makes a statement. It's bold, it's modern, and it's designed to provide maximum coverage. The large lens extends across a significant portion of your face, offering a wide field of view and excellent protection from the elements. Whether you're battling wind, dust, or harsh sunlight, the Sutro has you covered.

Oakley offers the Sutro in a variety of colors and frame finishes, so you can choose a pair that matches your personal style. From classic black and white to vibrant, eye-catching hues, there's a Sutro for everyone. The frame itself is made from Oakley's O Matter material, which is known for its durability, flexibility, and lightweight properties. This means the Sutro can withstand the rigors of cycling without weighing you down or feeling uncomfortable.

The Sutro's design isn't just about looks, though. It's also about functionality. The shape of the lens is carefully engineered to optimize airflow and prevent fogging, which can be a major issue when you're working up a sweat on a ride. The frame also features Oakley's Unobtainium nose pads and temples, which provide a secure and comfortable fit, even when you're bouncing around on rough roads. These pads actually become tackier when wet, so you don't have to worry about your sunglasses slipping off your face when you're sweating.

Key Features and Technologies

PRIZM Lens Technology: One of the standout features of the Oakley Sutro is its use of PRIZM lens technology. PRIZM lenses are designed to enhance color and contrast, allowing you to see more detail and react more quickly to changes in terrain. Oakley offers PRIZM lenses specifically tuned for different environments, such as road cycling, mountain biking, and even everyday use. For cycling, the PRIZM Road lens is a popular choice, as it enhances the colors you need to see to spot hazards and navigate safely.

Impact Protection: Oakley is renowned for its commitment to impact protection, and the Sutro is no exception. The lenses are made from Plutonite material, which is designed to block 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC, and harmful blue light up to 400nm. More importantly, Plutonite is incredibly strong and shatter-resistant, providing excellent protection for your eyes in the event of a crash or impact.

O Matter Frame: As mentioned earlier, the Sutro's frame is made from Oakley's O Matter material. This material is not only durable and lightweight but also resistant to stress and environmental extremes. This means your Sutro sunglasses will hold their shape and perform consistently, even after years of use.

Unobtainium Components: The Sutro features Unobtainium nose pads and temples, which provide a secure and comfortable fit. Unobtainium is a proprietary material that increases its grip when wet, ensuring your sunglasses stay in place, even when you're sweating profusely.

Performance on the Road

So, how do the Oakley Sutro sunglasses perform in the real world? In a word, exceptionally. The large lens provides a wide, unobstructed field of view, allowing you to see everything that's happening around you. This is especially important when cycling in traffic or on busy trails.

The PRIZM lenses do an excellent job of enhancing color and contrast, making it easier to spot potholes, cracks, and other hazards on the road. They also help to reduce glare and eye strain, which can be a major benefit on long rides. The Sutro's ventilation system works effectively to prevent fogging, even in humid conditions. This is a crucial feature for cyclists who don't want to have their vision impaired by condensation.

The fit of the Sutro is also excellent, thanks to the Unobtainium nose pads and temples. The sunglasses stay securely in place, even when you're riding over rough terrain or making sudden movements. They're also comfortable to wear for extended periods, without causing pressure points or discomfort.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the Oakley Sutro cycling sunglasses:

Pros:

  • Wide field of view
  • Excellent impact protection
  • Comfortable and secure fit
  • Stylish and modern design
  • Durable construction

Cons:

  • Bold style may not appeal to everyone
  • Relatively expensive
  • Large lens can be prone to scratches

Alternatives to Consider

If the Oakley Sutro doesn't quite fit your style or budget, there are several other excellent cycling sunglasses to consider:

  • Oakley Jawbreaker: Another popular option from Oakley, the Jawbreaker offers a similar level of performance and protection to the Sutro, but with a more traditional cycling aesthetic.
  • 100% S3: Known for their bold designs and high-quality lenses, 100% sunglasses are a favorite among professional cyclists.
  • Smith Attack Mag: The Smith Attack Mag features a magnetic lens-change system, making it easy to swap lenses on the fly.
  • Rudy Project Defender: Rudy Project sunglasses are known for their exceptional fit and adjustability, making them a great choice for cyclists with unique facial features.

Who are the Oakley Sutro For?

The Oakley Sutro sunglasses are ideal for cyclists who prioritize performance, protection, and style. They're a great choice for road cyclists, mountain bikers, and anyone who wants a high-quality pair of sunglasses that can stand up to the rigors of cycling. If you're looking for a pair of sunglasses that will help you see better, ride safer, and look great, the Oakley Sutro is definitely worth considering.

However, the Sutro's bold style may not appeal to everyone. If you prefer a more understated look, you might want to consider one of the alternatives mentioned above. Additionally, the Sutro's relatively high price tag may be a barrier for some cyclists. But if you're willing to invest in a premium pair of sunglasses, the Sutro is a worthwhile investment.

Care and Maintenance

To keep your Oakley Sutro sunglasses in top condition, it's important to take proper care of them. Here are a few tips:

  • Always store your sunglasses in a protective case when you're not using them.
  • Clean your lenses regularly with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your lenses.
  • If your sunglasses get wet, dry them thoroughly with a soft cloth.
  • Have your sunglasses professionally serviced if you notice any damage or wear.

Final Thoughts

The Oakley Sutro cycling sunglasses are a top-of-the-line option for cyclists who demand the best. With their wide field of view, excellent impact protection, comfortable fit, and stylish design, the Sutro is a great choice for anyone who wants to enhance their cycling experience. While they may not be the cheapest option on the market, the Sutro's performance and durability make them a worthwhile investment for serious cyclists. So, if you're in the market for a new pair of cycling sunglasses, be sure to give the Oakley Sutro a try. You won't be disappointed!

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the right gear can make all the difference. And when it comes to protecting your eyes and enhancing your vision on the road, the Oakley Sutro is a clear winner. So, get out there, explore the open road, and enjoy the ride!