Price: $189.99
Weight: 26 grams
Colors: Six frame and lens combinations
Frame material: Rilsan Clear
Prescription ready: Yes, with Rx optical insert
Availability: Online and retail
How obtained: Company sample
RBR advertiser: No
Sustainable Technology Plus Performance
In an industry trying to use more sustainable materials, Rudy Project launched its new Astral sunglasses earlier this year, made from sustainable technology without sacrificing performance. The frames are made from Arkema’s Rilsan Clear, a bio-plastic derived from 45% castor oil sourced from certified farmers in Gujarat, India. This choice of material supports sustainable practices and ensures the frames’ durability and flexibility.
Ideal for cyclists, the Astral is lightweight, weighing in at only 26 grams, guaranteeing all-day comfort. In addition, the adjustable Ergonose pad allows for a customized fit to the shape of the rider’s face. Plus, the anti-slip nose pads are adjustable for height and distance from the face, allowing airflow and preventing misting. The adjustable nose pad accommodates Rudy Project’s optical adapter for prescription lens wear.
Soft, durable rubber-coated temple tips ensure the sunglasses don’t slip even when pushing the pace.
The adjustable nose pad, flexible frame, and soft, durable rubber-coated temple tips ensure a secure fit, making the Astral ideal for slimmer faces. The frames didn’t slip or move during my test rides, even when I started sweating.
The Astral sunglasses don’t overwhelm my narrow face, and their unique features ensure a secure fit.
The lenses give me outstanding visibility of road conditions, even when riding in dappled sunlight. The lenses also block 100% of UV rays, and the cylindrical 6-base lens design provides a larger field of view. As a result, there are unobstructed views of the road and protection from debris, which is especially important for contact wearers like myself.
The company sent me the white matte frames with multilaser blue lenses (out of stock as of this review) for testing. The lenses have a light transmission value (LTV) of 13%, which indicates the amount of light transmitted through the lens. Low values are excellent for sunny conditions, and high values are great for less sun.
Six stylish frame color and lens combinations.
Choose from six stylish frame colors and lens combinations to match your bike, helmet, or personality. At a $189.99 price point, it’s worth noting that the Astral only comes with a microfiber storage bag instead of a hardshell case, which would protect the sunglasses when not in use.
Bottom Line
Overall, the Rudy Project Astral sunglasses are an excellent choice for cyclists looking for a blend of performance, comfort, and sustainability. They are a perfect style for slimmer faces and offer features to keep them secure even when things heat up.
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.