Rudy Project has introduced the Astral ARC, a pair of frameless cycling sunglasses that weighs a mere 26g yet promises to remain stable no matter how rough the road gets. The Italian brand says the new model combines featherweight construction with a fit that accommodates a broader spectrum of riders and face shapes.
Featherlight frameless shades have long been a favourite for sweltering conditions, but in practice they have usually been limited to smooth tarmac. Once the surface turns choppy, they have a habit of shifting around. The Astral ARC sets out to change that reputation by pairing its minimal weight with a design intended to stay firmly in place.
According to Rudy Project, the secret lies in a fresh lens profile working together with a frame that is rigid but still able to flex. The company asserts that this combination keeps the glasses secure regardless of terrain or the wearer’s facial structure.
**A brand-new lens shape**
At the heart of the Astral ARC is an entirely new lens. The polycarbonate lens carries a mirror coating and a category 3 filter rating, meaning it lets through roughly 8% to 18% of visible light. It also delivers UV400 protection, making it well suited to riding under strong sunshine.
Rudy Project explains that the ARC lens uses a newly developed cylindrical geometry, engineered so that wearers with a wide variety of face shapes enjoy clear, undistorted vision.
The brand further claims that this lens shape, combined with the stiff hinged arms of the frameless Astral and soft, flexible temple tips, produces a hold that matches that of heavier, fully framed cycling sunglasses.
**Sustainable frame material**
The frame is built from Rilsan Clear, a bio-based polymer in which 45% of the material comes from castor oil. Rudy Project says this material is obtained through certified supply chains.
At just 26g, the Astral ARC ranks among the lightest performance glasses Rudy Project has ever produced. Perhaps more unexpectedly for such a minimal design, the glasses also accept an RX optical insert, which means riders who need prescription correction can now choose the Astral ARC as well.
**Dimensions and options**
The new glasses measure 13mm in temple length, 55mm in height and 147mm in width. Buyers can pick from seven standard colours plus two limited editions, one of which is the Vanilla Matte colourway shown here.
Pricing starts at €129.90 / $209 and rises to €149.90 / $241, depending on the lens specification chosen.
