By Brandon Bilyeu
Hot!
- Blocks 100% of harmful UV rays, ensuring your eyes are protected during outdoor activities.
- Frameless design allows for an unobstructed view, enhancing visibility while cycling or engaging in sports.
- Offers excellent optical clarity, making them suitable for various lighting conditions and ensuring a distortion-free field of vision.
- Features an adjustable nose pad, providing customizable comfort for prolonged wear.
- Weighs only 28 grams, making them incredibly light for wearers who prioritize comfort.
- Compatible with prescription lenses when using an optical adapter, accommodating users with vision requirements.
Not!
- The lens is non-swappable, which could limit customization options.
- Doesn’t come with a hard case; users will only receive a protective microfiber pouch for storage.
Price: $205
Weight: 28 grams
Frame Color/Lens Color:
- Light Teal Matte/Multilaser Osmium for a vibrant look, that stands out.
- Black Matte/Multilaser Red for a sleek, modern aesthetic.
- Crystal Ash/Multilaser Green for a stylish yet understated option.
- White Matte/Multilaser Rose Gold for those looking to combine elegance with sportiness.
- Crystal Lilac/Multilaser Rose Gold for fashion-forward cyclists.
How obtained: review sample provided for evaluation.
Available: retail and online for easy access to all users.
Website: Rudy Project Astral X
RBR Sponsor: no sponsorships currently associated.
Tested: over 20 hours of rigorous usage.
Rudy Project Astral X – A Bigger Astral
A while back, Sheri reviewed the original Rudy Project Astral sunglasses, which have now evolved into the larger Astral X model. The updated design boasts increased lens dimensions—3mm (0.12 inch) wider at the temples and 5mm (0.2 inch) taller—allowing users to select a temple width and lens height most compatible with their facial structure.
Well Executed Frameless Design
The clever frameless structure eliminates a rigid frame element connecting the two temple arms, allowing the lens to act as the ‘spring’ that determines how comfortably the sunglasses fit. In previous experiences with frameless glasses, I encountered lenses that were too yielding, causing the glasses to shift during rough rides. However, the Astral X lens strikes the right balance, possessing the necessary stiffness to maintain a secure grip while still accommodating various temple widths for a personalized fit.
Unlike framed sunglasses, which can mask inferior lens quality, the frameless design of the Astral X presents a transparent view that highlights any potential lens imperfections. Fortunately, the clarity offered by the Astral X lens is outstanding across the visual field, free from visible distortions at the edges. The expansive lens coverage transitions seamlessly, extending out to the limits of peripheral vision.
Rx Optical Inserts
The Astral X uniquely accommodates prescription optical inserts, which is a rare yet useful feature in cycling eyewear. Priced at $90 without the lenses, the insert effortlessly snaps onto the nose piece of the Astral X. Users can procure prescription lenses through their eye specialists, or they can opt for Rudy Project’s convenient online ordering process, which simplifies getting the right vision correction.
Adjustable and Secure Fit
The nose pad is fully adjustable, enabling users to customize the fit according to their facial features, including the height and distance from the face. This adjustable feature is particularly beneficial during colder seasons, allowing adequate airflow to prevent fogging. Furthermore, the nose pad’s tacky material ensures a no-slip fit even during intense activities.
The temple arms are designed with an integrated rubber insert, providing a secure grip while being discreet behind the ears. I particularly appreciate that these rubber elements are embedded in the frame rather than being removable rubber socks that often wear out and fall off over time. The temple arms themselves are crafted from 45% bio-plastic derived from castor oil, providing a stiff but lightweight base complemented by reliable rubber inserts. The temple hinges operate smoothly without any play, ensuring that the sunglasses remain intact when stored, preventing lens scratches.
The Astral X arrives with a microfiber pouch for protection, while the option for a hard case is available for those seeking additional security. It’s worth noting that the lens design does not allow for swaps.
Bottom Line
The Rudy Project Astral X stands out as an exceptional pair of sunglasses. With outstanding lens clarity and a tailored fit, they effectively vanish once worn, all while safeguarding your eyes against harmful UV exposure. The two distinct models, Astral and Astral X, cater to a diverse range of face shapes, making them an ideal choice for those in need of prescription optical solutions.
Brandon Bilyeu is an avid recreational roadie residing in Regensburg, Germany. A dedicated year-round bike commuter, he combines his passion for cycling with his expertise as a mechanical design engineer. Click to read Brandon’s full bio.
What are the benefits of the frameless design in the Rudy Project Astral X sunglasses for outdoor sports?
### Interview with Brandon Bilyeu on the Rudy Project Astral X Sunglasses
**Interviewer**: Thanks for joining us, Brandon! You recently reviewed the Rudy Project Astral X sunglasses. What stood out to you most about this new model?
**Brandon Bilyeu**: Thanks for having me! One of the most impressive features of the Astral X is its frameless design, which really enhances visibility while cycling or during any sport. It allows for an unobstructed view, and the clarity is exceptional—no distortions at the edges. It’s designed for performance and comfort, which truly makes it stand out.
**Interviewer**: The weight of the sunglasses is quite impressive at just 28 grams. How does this impact the overall user experience?
**Brandon Bilyeu**: The lightweight design significantly increases comfort, especially for extended wear during long rides. When you’re cycling, every gram counts, and these glasses feel almost weightless, which helps reduce fatigue. It’s great for wearers who prioritize both comfort and functionality.
**Interviewer**: You also mentioned the adjustable nose pad feature. Could you elaborate on how this benefits the users?
**Brandon Bilyeu**: Absolutely! The fully adjustable nose pad allows for a customized fit, which is crucial for cyclists as everyone has different facial structures. Users can modify the height and distance from their face to ensure that the sunglasses stay securely in place, minimizing distraction during rides.
**Interviewer**: Were there any drawbacks you noticed during your review?
**Brandon Bilyeu**: Yes, there are a couple of things to consider. The lenses are non-swappable, which limits customization options for users who may want to switch out lenses based on conditions. Additionally, they only come with a protective microfiber pouch rather than a hard case, so that could be a drawback for those looking for better storage protection.
**Interviewer**: The ability to use prescription lenses is an attractive feature. How does that work?
**Brandon Bilyeu**: The Astral X can accommodate prescription optical inserts, which is quite rare in cycling eyewear. Users can acquire the inserts through their eye specialists or opt for Rudy Project’s online ordering system. It’s an excellent option for those who need vision correction while engaging in sports.
**Interviewer**: With a price point of $205, would you say these sunglasses are worth the investment?
**Brandon Bilyeu**: Given the features, performance, and comfort provided by the Astral X, I would say they are a worthwhile investment for serious cyclists or anyone engaged in outdoor activities. The combination of UV protection, outstanding clarity, and the ability to adapt to prescription needs makes them a strong contender in the cycling eyewear market.
**Interviewer**: Thank you so much for your insights, Brandon! It’s clear that the Rudy Project Astral X has a lot to offer cyclists.
**Brandon Bilyeu**: Thank you! I’m glad to share my thoughts on these innovative sunglasses. Happy cycling!
