Having seen the unique design of Catlike helmets in the pro peloton for years I was excited to test the Shadow sunglasses from Catlike.

Sunglasses are an important part of my cycling gear because I wear contact lenses. My priority is protection over style. When I first wore the Catlike Shadow sunglasses, I knew they were going to meet both of those criteria. The lenses covered my eyes well and wrapped around the sides. Some call it bug-like but it's the kind of fit and style I need.

My first day out with the Catlike Shadow sunglasses was a sunny day. I had 3 lens types to choose from: grey/black, clear, and high intensity yellow. I chose the grey/black lens. They were so light and flexible and they stuck to my face because of the anti slip material on the nose piece and arms. I hardly noticed I had them on. I was down the road a couple of miles when BAM! A bug reminded me I was wearing the Catlike Shadow sunglasses. Thanks Catlike, as my eyes were covered and well protected. Feeling blessed, I continued on into a stiff warm wind. I was pushing the pace and had a good sweat going, but the lenses stayed dry. No sweat dripped on the inside of the glasses like it has done with others I have used. Nice touch Catlike!

The clarity of the photochromatic (high optical quality) lenses was fantastic. I enjoyed the scenery with no distortion or changes in natural color. When I got home the lenses cleaned up well with the cleaning cloth Catlike provided and the glasses fit nicely into the shell carrying case. My additional rides with the Shadow yielded similar positive results. I used the other lens types and found them to provide excellent optical quality in lower light conditions.

I did have some nervous moments changing lenses. The lens itself snaps into the arm. Because it needs to secure to the arm for it to be stable, you have to use some force (elbow grease) to get it into place. Each time I did this I felt like I would break the wings that secure the lens to the arm. The Shadow lens also has 3 pivot points that allow you to change the angle of the lens to up, center or down. This is a nice feature that would help divert the wind away from your eyes depending on your riding position. In the drops you might want the lens in the up position or when climbing you might like them in the down position. I found the standard (center) position to be the best for me.

Overall, the Catlike Shadow sunglasses gave me confidence in their ability to protect my eyes. I also liked the 3 lens options to choose from which is nice in areas that have varying weather conditions. Some additional features riders can appreciate are the 100% UVA and UVB ray protection and anti fog lenses. The 3 angle lens has its use, but I rarely found a need to change it. I was also fearful when I changed lenses as they seemed delicate. They did hold up during multiple changes while testing.

If you would like more information about the Shadow sunglasses or other Catlike products visit www.Catlike.es.