Why are glasses not recommended as eye protection for riding?

• A. They do not keep your eyes from watering, and can blow off when you turn.
• B. They block sun glare only.
• C. They are cheaper than goggles.
• D. They provide full protection.

Answer: (A)

Eye protection for riding needs to stay securely in place and shield the eyes from wind, dust, and debris at riding speeds. Ordinary glasses sit away from the face and don’t seal against the helmet, so wind can grab the frames and blow them off while debris can still reach the eyes. They also don’t provide full coverage around the sides and around the brow, which a goggle or full-face shield offers. Sunglasses can help with sun glare, but they aren’t designed for impact protection or a snug, wind-tight seal, which is why goggles or a full-face shield are preferred. Since glasses can’t reliably keep eyes safe at speed, they aren’t the recommended eye protection for riding.