Price: $200-$220
Colors: Six variations of frames and lenses
Weight: 21 g
Lens manufacturer and type: Zeiss – nylon toric
UV protection: 100%
Nose pad: Interchangeable w/standard and Asian nose bridges included
Availability: Online
How obtained: Company sample
RBR advertiser: No
Lightweight, Wide Field of View, and Extraordinary Lens Clarity
This review marks my first time reviewing a product that received a Good Housekeeping award. The KOO Supernova sunglasses were the recipient of Good Housekeeping’s 2024 Best Fitness Awards, and after a few rides testing them, I know why. These sunglasses are lightweight, use a single shield lens for unobstructed views, and have excellent lens clarity, making them perfect for cyclists.
When it comes to lens quality, the Supernova sunglasses truly shine. The lens is made by Zeiss, a renowned optics industry name, and is constructed from shatter-proof, anti-reflective nylon toric material ― ensuring exceptional clarity and sharpness. Additionally, the lens provides 100% UV protection, shielding your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
The Supernova sunglasses feature a wraparound single-shield design, providing an unobstructed view. With no frame blocking your vision, there’s a clear line of sight of the road or trail. As a contact wearer, the wraparound shield does an excellent job of protecting my eyes from debris and wind.
These sunglasses are incredibly lightweight ― weighing only 21 grams. You don’t even realize you have them on. For added comfort, they come with two nose bridge options ― standard and Asian ― allowing you to customize the fit to your face, ensuring maximum comfort and stability during rides.
Of all the sunglasses brands I’ve tested over the years, KOO is the first manufacturer to give special consideration to the shape of an Asian cyclist’s nose. Compared to the typical Westerner, the Asian nose tends to be flatter and wider. Several Asian riders I know have complained they have difficulty finding sunglasses to fit them correctly, and this KOO model should do the trick.
The Supernova sunglasses are also great for those with narrow, smaller faces like myself. The frame didn’t overwhelm my face, staying secure and comfortable.
The Supernova is available in six frame/lens combinations to match your personality and style. The temple arm is thin enough to easily attach a rearview mirror to it, providing an additional level of safety.
In the box, KOO includes the sunglasses, two interchangeable nose pads (as described above), and a microfiber storage bag that doubles as a cleaning cloth. I was surprised at the $200 price point that KOO didn’t include a hardshell case.
Bottom Line
The KOO Supernova sunglasses are an excellent choice for cyclists, runners, and hikers looking for a high-performance eyewear option. With their lightweight design, unobstructed view, and exceptional lens clarity provided by Zeiss, these sunglasses offer both comfort and functionality on the road and trail. The Supernova is a little pricey at $200-$220, but they are a worthwhile investment to enhance your cycling experience.
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.
Fred R says
Nope, never again will I pay more than $75 for plastic-lensed sunglasses, they scratch far too easily, and because of that they will only last a season or two at the most.