When a long-term helmet manufacturer sets out to make a pair of riding glasses, it thinks about compatibility. As a result, Giro’s Havik has curtailed arms designed not to interfere with the plastic straps on the back of most modern helmets.
This system, which Giro calls Super Fit, does indeed mesh perfectly with almost every helmet we tried. The relatively short and slightly downwardly curved earstems lock on (almost too) securely without running into any helmet retention system hardware. The fit is secure, but a bit snug for pumpkin heads.
The shield-type single lens is manufactured by Zeiss (of camera lens fame) and offers superb clarity and lack of distortion that easily trounces the majority of single-lens competitors. Giro’s True Sight lens geometry almost seems to rival Oakley’s long-standing XYZ Optics, which is impressive considering this is Giro’s first stretch out of the gate.
The well-shaped, medium-sized polycarbonate lens delivers good coverage while remaining fog-free in most situations and has a hydrophobic Dura Clean hard coating which helps repel water, oil and fingerprints.
The only drawback we had, and one that depends on your head shape, is that the frame sits close to your brow, which tends to catch sweat. This can happen on all glasses but it’s harder to avoid on the Haviks.
Air flow is channelled behind the lenses, using what Giro calls ‘wind tunnel technology’, to stop them steaming up – this also dries up sweat.
About the only realm where Giro does fall slightly short is the range of Havik options. There are six frame colors and seven lens tints but only one lens shape for now and no fit adjustments to accommodate wider or flatter faces.
This may change, though, according to Giro's senior brand manager, Eric Richter, who told us: “As our eyewear program grows and we get the chance to work with a wider range of pro riders and consumers, the Havik - along with the rest of our line - will evolve to include more options for more riders.”
The Havik already represents a viable alternative to the big ‘O’ in terms of performance, but the glasses are pricey with just one lens, and replacements cost £35 to £60.
For those who place a high priority on style and personalisation, the king is still king. But the revolution is quickly gaining ground. Cake, anyone?