Price: $190 – $245
Frame colors: 8 color choices
Weight: 25g
Lens manufacturer: Zeiss®
Nose pad: Interchangeable w/standard and Asian nose bridges included
Case: Microfiber pouch
Availability: Online
How obtained: Company sample
RBR advertiser: No
Outstanding Comfort, Stability, and Style for Narrower Faces
Finding sunglasses that fit well can be challenging for those with narrower faces, like myself. KOO has addressed this issue with their new Alibi sunglasses, which feature shorter arms to comfortably fit male and female facial structures. The shorter arms prevent the discomfort of helmet overlap, which can press the sunglasses into the sides of the rider’s head.
There’s an absence of rubber on the end of the sunglass arms. Instead, the arms have a grooved pattern that helps keep the sunglasses securely in place. The package includes an Asian nose pad, which, when swapped with the standard pad, accommodates riders who might need extra support due to a less pronounced nose bridge, ensuring the sunglasses stay firmly in place.
There’s no rubber at the end of the arms to snag your hair, but the grooved pattern keeps the sunglasses securely in place.
Adding to the comfort of the ALIBI sunglasses is that they are feather-light. Coming in at a meager 25 grams, I forgot they were on.
Compared to other of Koo’s models, like Demos and Spectro sunglasses (the brand’s alternate core cycling sunglasses), the frame and uni-lens of the ALIBI sunglasses are noticeably more compact and sit more proportionately on narrower faces.
Excellent Visibility in All Types of Lighting
I tested the white matte frames equipped with a photochromic lens. The half-frame design provides an unobstructed view, which is essential for navigating the road or checking stats on a bike computer. The high-quality Zeiss uni-shield lens ensures clear visibility under different lighting conditions. The photochromic lens adapts swiftly to sunlight variations, making these sunglasses ideal for day and night cycling.
The photochromic lens accommodates changing lighting conditions by quickly going from light to dark to light.
Available in eight color options and various lens choices, the ALIBI caters to different preferences, including options for those who do not require photochromic lenses. (Check out KOO’s website when selecting which lens suits your needs.)
The uni-lens is made from highly scratch-resistant material and offers extensive coverage. This is crucial for protecting the eyes from debris — a significant benefit for contact lens wearers like myself. Additionally, two vent slits at the top enhance airflow, helping to prevent fogging.
What’s in the Box?
KOO ALIBI sunglasses come with a microfiber cleaning cloth that doubles as a storage pouch. However, I was surprised that these sunglasses were pricier, and I expected them to include a hardshell storage case. Also in the box is the optional Asian nose pad I mentioned earlier.
Bottom Line
The KOO ALIBi sunglasses are a well-thought-out solution for cyclists with narrower faces, offering comfort, stability, and excellent visibility. While they excel in design and functionality, adding a hardshell case would enhance the value proposition, especially given their premium pricing of $195-$245. Overall, these sunglasses are a solid choice for road and gravel cyclists seeking reliable performance and style.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.