Mountain biking is an exhilarating sport that demands the right gear, and your MTB glasses are crucial for protecting your eyes and enhancing your vision on the trails. Whether you use cycling glasses, prescription cycling glasses, polarised MTB glasses, or photochromic MTB glasses, proper maintenance and cleaning are essential for ensuring their longevity and optimal performance. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you take care of your MTB glasses.
Why Proper Maintenance Matters
MTB glasses endure a lot of harsh conditions, from mud and dust to sweat and UV rays. Regular maintenance not only keeps them looking good but also ensures they function effectively, providing clear vision and protecting your eyes from debris and harmful UV rays. Proper care can extend the life of your glasses, making them a worthy investment.
Cleaning Your MTB Glasses
- Rinse Before Cleaning: Always rinse your glasses with lukewarm water before cleaning them. This helps remove dust and debris that can scratch the lenses when wiped.
- Use a Gentle Cleaner: Avoid using harsh chemicals or household cleaners. Instead, use a lens-specific cleaner or a mild soap diluted in water. For prescription cycling glasses, ensure the cleaner is safe for the coating on your lenses.
- Soft Cloth Only: Use a microfiber cloth or a lens-specific cleaning cloth to wipe the lenses. Avoid using paper towels, tissues, or your shirt, as these can scratch the lenses.
- Clean the Frame: Don’t forget to clean the frame of your glasses. Sweat and grime can build up around the nose pads and arms. Use the same gentle cleaner and a soft cloth for the frame.
- Drying: After cleaning, gently shake off excess water and use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to dab the lenses dry. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause scratches.
Maintaining Polarised and Photochromic Lenses
- Protect from Extreme Conditions: Extreme heat or cold can affect the performance of both polarised and photochromic lenses. Avoid leaving your glasses in hot cars or exposed to freezing temperatures for long periods.
- Handle with Care: Both types of lenses are delicate. Handle them by the frames to avoid smudging the lenses and always store them in a protective case when not in use.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your lenses for scratches, cracks, or any signs of wear. If your prescription cycling glasses or photochromic MTB glasses are damaged, it may be time for a replacement to ensure optimal vision and protection.
Tips for Long-Term Care
- Use a Hard Case: When not in use, store your glasses in a hard case to protect them from physical damage. This is especially important for prescription cycling glasses, which can be more costly to replace.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: While MTB glasses are designed for outdoor use, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight when not being worn can degrade the lenses and frames. Store them in a shaded area or in their case.
- Regular Adjustments: Over time, the fit of your glasses may change. Regularly check and adjust the nose pads and arms to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. This is particularly important for glasses MTB riders rely on for long rides.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance and cleaning of your MTB glasses are vital for ensuring they provide clear vision and effective protection on the trails. Whether you’re using polarised MTB glasses, photochromic MTB glasses, or prescription cycling glasses, following these tips can help extend their lifespan and maintain their performance. At Rad8, we offer high-quality cycling glasses designed to withstand the rigours of mountain biking. Explore our range and find the perfect pair to enhance your ride, and remember to keep them in top condition for many adventures to come.