First, I would like to apologize for being completely MIA for three weeks. I can attribute this to both being burned out at work and some filial duties that completely monopolized my time. I did however realize that something was missing from my life–my anonymous exhibitionist tendencies (i.e. this blog); therefore, I’m back and promise to blog as frequently as I used to… starting now!
I recently purchased these sunglasses a couple of weeks ago. Yes, they look like they cost a whole $5, but no, the salesperson at Sunglass Hut assured me that they are handmade in Italy and take a whole week to assemble; hence, they’re super-duper designer. Usually, I’m not a snob when it comes to fashion (just when it comes to bicycles), but when it comes to my eyes, which are bad enough as-is, I’d rather not compromise.
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These are made by Persol, and sans helmet, you cannot deny that they look pretty snazzy…
Once I get the headgear on, however, I am unable to escape the dorky vibe. The chicness instantly disappears, but I’m okay with that–safety first!
In addition to obviously protecting me from the sun and desert storms, this new accessory has also protected me from the little yellow airborne particles that tend to proliferate during this time of year, as seasonal plants decide it is time to reproduce. Yes, there is indeed pollen in the desert. Who knew?
For cycling, the most rational choice would have been to buy cycling specific goggles. Since I am not a completely rational person, I clearly went with form over function this time around. You can see in the photo above that the frames lie rather flat, whereas cycling goggles would curve around my face, providing the most optimal protection from the wind and airborne particles.
After about one week of consistent use, I have not had any issues with particles getting into my eyes due to the lack of curvature, fogging, or any of the usual annoyances that come with biking with eye-wear. The only complaint I have, which is with sunglasses in general, is that the world suddenly seems overcast, and the expression in my eyes cannot be seen by passers by. When I see a car with tinted windows, I wonder, what are they trying to hide? That is how I feel as I cycle with sunglasses–like a car with tinted windows. Overall, the benefits severely outweigh these minor drawbacks, and they sure beat the lab goggles solution!
I’m happy to see you’re back! Life always gets in the way of things but fun stuff (i.e. writing about bicycling) always has a way of creeping back in.
I loved this story, by the way. I recently dug around in the closet to find my sunglasses (just regular old sunglasses; not bike-specific) and now I remember how much better it is to have them on when it’s bright out!
Thanks! It is good to be back…
Yeah I too am enjoying the sunglasses. It always seems to be nice and sunny in Phoenix, AZ; however, I do believe it might finally rain later this week.
Good choice! Persol are the only sunnies to have. I’ve got two pairs, and because I’m sad, one pair is a folding pair of Steve McQueen specials. But as a velominato, I am forbidden to wear non cycling eyewear on my bike.
Good to see a fellow cyclist appreciate Persol. Unfortunate, but understandable, about not wearing it for velominato business.
Nice shades.
Thanks!