Black Friday cyclist protection: glasses deals
The Black Friday cycling protection includes items that protect the body rather than the bike: sunglasses and spare lenses, high visibility or protective vests, knee pads and elbow pads for mountain biking. Discounts apply to these protections during the event, but a crossed-out price doesn't tell the whole story: size and standards are just as important, as well as the filter category for the lenses and the level of protection for the shells.
Four families of protection
Cycling glasses are the essential part of the category, with road, MTB and sports frames, as well as replacement lenses. The vests range from reflective vests to back protection vests. For MTB, knee pads and elbow pads cover the first points of contact with the ground in a fall. The complete guide to these families is on the cycling protection page, open all year round.
Glasses: filter, lenses and shape
The ISO 12312-1 standard classifies sunglasses from category 0, almost clear, to category 4, reserved for very bright light and unsuitable for driving. For cycling, category 2 or 3 is suitable for most rides, and a clear or photochromic lens is used in overcast weather or in wooded areas. A wraparound frame protects from wind and splashes, adjustable nose pads stabilize the glasses under the helmet, and interchangeable lenses allow adapting the same pair to daylight conditions.
Knee pads, elbow pads and vests: size and standard
A knee pad or elbow pad for MTB is judged by its certification: the EN 1621-1 standard distinguishes between two levels, with level 2 absorbing more impact. Many recent models use soft foam that hardens on impact, which is more comfortable for pedaling than a rigid shell. Size is chosen based on thigh or calf circumference, measured according to the manufacturer's guide: if too loose, the protection will slide on the first impact. For vests, a high visibility model bears a CE marking; a windproof vest, even a clear one, does not qualify.
Comparing two discounted protections
A promotion on glasses can only be compared if the lenses are the same: check the tint and category of the supplied lens, the presence of a second screen, and the size of the frame, as some models come in Small. For a knee pad, compare the crossed-out price and the discounted price of the same version, short or long, at the same certification level. After that, end-of-line products join the clearance sales and new models are added to the new arrivals; locks, lighting, or bags are included in the Black Friday cycling equipment.
Brands of glasses and protections
Rudy Project, an Italian brand of glasses and helmets, offers wraparound frames like the Magnus or the Kelion, several with photochromic lenses.
Bollé, a glasses brand originating from Oyonnax, in Ain, offers sports frames such as the C-Icarus, Shifter or Micro Edge.
7iDP, a Northern Irish brand of MTB protections, incorporates SAS-TEC foam in its Transition knee pads that conforms to the shape of the knee; the range is also available in a child version.
Leatt, originating from Cape Town with the neck brace designed by South African doctor Chris Leatt for motorsports, offers knee pads and elbow pads from AirFlex to ReaFlex, as well as Rideviz glasses.
POC, a Swedish brand, uses VPD, a soft polymer that hardens on impact and then returns to its shape, in its Joint and Oseus protections.
Frequently asked questions
What lens category should I choose for cycling?
Category 3 is suitable for bright sunlight, 2 for moderate brightness, and 1 or a clear lens for grey days and night rides. A photochromic lens transitions between the two depending on the light.
How do I measure the right size for knee pads?
Measure the thigh circumference a few centimeters above the knee and the calf circumference, then refer to the manufacturer's size chart. Try them on with the leg bent, in a pedaling position: they should stay in place without being too tight.
Do discounts on glasses and protections last after the Black Friday?
Black Friday takes place on the Friday following Thanksgiving, but Vélo-Store maintains its Black Friday discounts on glasses, vests and MTB protections throughout November. This is plenty of time to measure a thigh circumference before choosing a knee pad size.
Is a high visibility vest mandatory for cycling?
Outside built-up areas, yes, whenever light is low, at night or in fog, and for anyone on board, including passengers. In town, it’s not required but remains useful as daylight fades.
Can you give cycling glasses as a gift without knowing the person's size?
Yes, in most cases: most frames are offered in a one-size-fits-all. For a slim face or a teenager, opt for a Small version, and for someone who wears prescription glasses, make sure to check before gifting.
