Last Updated on 12 August 2024 by Cycloscope
Our in-depth review of OutdoorMaster’s affordable and high-quality sunglasses for cycling and outdoor sports. We personally tested four models, including the photochromic HawkSharp HD and Hawk HD, under the intense Sicilian sun.
We have collaborated with OutdoorMaster in the past to test their products and provide feedback to both you and them. Over the years, their brand has grown significantly, especially in terms of quality, and they have gained recognition as an official supplier for the U.S. Ski Team.
About OutdoorMaster
OutdoorMaster is a brand that specializes in high-quality and affordable outdoor sports gear. Founded in 2015, the company aims to make outdoor sports accessible to a broader audience by offering innovative and reasonably priced equipment. Their product range includes ski and snow goggles, helmets, SUP pumps, and various accessories for snow, water, cycling, and other outdoor activities.
Testing Conditions and Considerations
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How we compile our gear guides: during the almost 10 years of cycloscope.net our team personally tested dozens of similar pieces of gear. For what we can't test personally, we involve other people in the cycling community to give their feedback and opinion about gear they have used. Our decade-long experience in bicycle touring enables us to find the key cons and pros of every product we mention.
For this review, we focused on OutdoorMaster’s line of sunglasses for cycling, running, and outdoor sports. We tested four models, with prices ranging from approximately $15 to $50, comparing them in terms of quality, performance, and features.
We tested these sunglasses under the harsh Sicilian sun in July, a rigorous environment to evaluate their effectiveness. Given their affordability, we cannot compare them to products that cost four times as much. However, considering that sunglasses are often lost or broken, investing in a more affordable yet high-quality pair makes sense.
Hawk HD + HawkSharp Photochromic Sport Sunglasses
Let’s start with the two that we liked the most: OutdoorMaster HawkSharp HD and Hawk HD Photochromic Sport Sunglasses. As the name suggests, they are both photochromic sunglasses for cycling and outdoor activities.
Photochromic Lens Technology
For those who don’t know what photochromic lenses are, the concept is straightforward: the glasses become darker with increased exposure to light and become lighter, even transparent, when in the shade or in poorly lit areas such as a tunnel.
It is certainly not a new technology, but today these photochromic lenses can be produced at a much lower cost than in the past, and the speed at which they change from dark to light and vice versa has increased significantly. The OutdoorMaster Hawk changes color in just a few seconds. In short, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to buy photochromic cycling glasses.
Initial Impressions and Build Quality
We’ve always liked this concept because taking off and putting on sunglasses when cycling for long hours can be tedious. Unless you are cycling only in deserts or areas with no shade or even a single cloud, you risk suddenly finding yourself in the dark or needing to stop and put away the glasses whenever necessary.
I must say, judging solely by the cost, we thought we were getting cheap sunglasses of rather mediocre quality, but still suitable for a day on the bike. However, as soon as we opened the package and held it in our hands, we immediately realized we were wrong. They seem to be sturdy and well-made sunglasses. They are very light, it really doesn’t feel like you’re wearing them; they don’t make you sweat, and they’re not uncomfortable when worn with a helmet.
OutdoorMaster sunglasses, even the more affordable ones, come with a cleaning cloth, a bag, and a hard case equipped with a carabiner, so you can always have them on hand by attaching them to your backpack or bike.
They are wrap-around, so light doesn’t pass through the sides of the face. Of course, this also depends on each individual’s facial structure. But we can say that their wrap-around design ensures they don’t move, even during a bumpy MTB ride. The distance from the top edge of the glasses to the helmet is sufficient to avoid any discomfort while riding.
The lenses of both of these sunglasses have the same characteristics; what changes is the style and the available colors, which are numerous. The HawkSharp are more elongated and rectangular, perhaps suitable for those with a smaller face, while the Hawk HD have a more aggressive look and a more pronounced frame.
All these 4 sunglasses have TR90 frames. TR90 is a remarkable thermoplastic material renowned for its durability, flexibility, and lightweight properties, making it an ideal choice for eyewear frames. Developed by the Swiss EMS company, TR90 frames offer a comfortable wearing experience by reducing pressure on the nose and ears due to their feather-light nature. Their flexibility allows them to withstand drops and bending without breaking, perfect for active lifestyles. Additionally, TR90 frames can endure high temperatures without deforming, ensuring long-lasting durability in various environments.
OutdoorMaster Hawk II Polarized Sports and Hawkview Polarized Cycling Sunglasses
The OutdoorMaster Hawk II and Hawkview models are classic sports sunglasses with Polarized TAC (Triacetate Cellulose) lenses. These high-performance lenses reduce glare and improve visual clarity. The polarized filter blocks intense reflected light from surfaces like water, snow, and roads, enhancing visibility and reducing eye strain. Additionally, TAC lenses come with multiple coatings for scratch resistance, anti-reflective properties, and UV protection.
UV400 lenses block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, offering comprehensive protection for your eyes during outdoor activities. This level of protection is crucial for preventing long-term damage from prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful rays.
Warranty and Support
All OutdoorMaster cycling sunglasses come with a one-year warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers. This warranty is a testament to the company’s confidence in their products’ durability and performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, OutdoorMaster’s range of sunglasses for cycling and outdoor sports offers a compelling blend of affordability, quality, and performance. The HawkSharp HD and Hawk HD Photochromic Sport Sunglasses are particularly noteworthy for their advanced lens technology, comfortable design, and stylish appearance. Meanwhile, the Hawk II and Hawkview models provide excellent glare reduction and UV protection, making them ideal for various outdoor activities.
Given their affordable price range, these sunglasses are an excellent investment, especially for those who frequently lose or break their eyewear. OutdoorMaster has successfully created a line of sunglasses that cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts without compromising on quality or performance.
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