Harry Kooros
Cycling sunglass brands are everywhere these days, with options ranging from excellent value through to eye-watering price tags. Dutch brand VALLON takes a different approach, producing eyewear that looks as though it belongs in the peloton alongside Greg LeMond, Laurent Fignon and Bernard Hinault.
The company doesn’t just cater to cyclists either. Its range extends across skiing, mountaineering, fishing, motorcycling and everyday lifestyle wear, all united by a distinctive blend of retro-inspired styling and modern performance.
Sustainability is another key part of the brand’s philosophy. Many of VALLON’s frames are made from recycled materials, while every pair sold helps fund the collection and recycling of 1kg of plastic waste. It’s an initiative that adds genuine substance to the brand’s outdoor credentials rather than feeling like an afterthought.
For this review, I spent time with two of VALLON’s most popular models: the cycling-focused Watchtowers and the versatile Ventures.
Watchtowers
The Watchtowers are VALLON’s dedicated performance cycling sunglasses and, at first glance, strike a nice balance between modern shield-style eyewear and classic 1980s designs. Think Oakley Factory Pilots reimagined for today’s road and gravel riders. The single-lens construction provides excellent coverage, while the rounded shape feels less aggressive than many race-focused options on the market.
Out on the bike, the first thing that stands out is the lens clarity. Developed alongside German optics giant ZEISS, the large polycarbonate lens delivers excellent contrast and sharpness across a range of conditions.
Comfort is another highlight. At around 32 grams, the Watchtowers disappear on your face after a few minutes of riding. The flexible frame, made from 85 per cent recycled fishing nets, feels secure without creating pressure points. Three interchangeable nose pieces are also included, making it easy to fine-tune the fit depending on your face shape and riding conditions. I particularly liked this, as comfort around the nose is something I’ve often struggled with.
After several longer rides, the Watchtowers proved to be a comfortable and capable option. The combination of a lightweight frame, generous lens coverage and secure fit makes them a good match for everything from fast road rides to rougher gravel adventures.
Most importantly, they don’t have the oversized, “look at me” aesthetic that a lot of modern cycling sunglasses have adopted. They’re stylish without trying too hard, while still delivering the performance you’d expect at this price point.
Ventures
While the Watchtowers are dedicated riding sunglasses, the Ventures occupy a slightly different space.
These are the sunglasses you throw on before a ride, keep on afterwards at the café, and continue wearing throughout the rest of the day. The styling leans more towards outdoor adventure and lifestyle use, but performance hasn’t been sacrificed in the process.
The frame design feels timeless, drawing inspiration from classic mountaineering and expedition sunglasses. Unlike many lifestyle-focused options, though, the Ventures are light enough and secure enough to comfortably wear during longer rides.
On the road, the lenses deliver excellent optical quality, with plenty of contrast and protection from harsh sunlight. The frame coverage is generous without being as imposing as the Watchtowers.
What impressed me most was their versatility. Some sunglasses excel on the bike but feel out of place everywhere else, while others look great off the bike but become uncomfortable after an hour in the saddle. The Ventures manage to strike a great balance between both.
For touring riders, gravel cyclists, commuters and anyone who values gear that performs across multiple environments, the Ventures are an easy recommendation. They’re now one of my go-to all-rounder options for almost any outdoor occasion.
The Verdict
After spending time with both models, it’s easy to see why VALLON has built a strong following among riders looking for something a little different.
The Watchtowers are the pick for riders wanting a dedicated cycling sunglass. They’re lightweight, comfortable and offer excellent coverage, while the retro-inspired design helps them stand apart from the sea of oversized shields that currently dominate the market.
The Ventures, meanwhile, are the more versatile option. They perform well on the bike but look equally at home off it, making them a great choice for cyclists who want one pair of sunglasses for riding, travelling and everyday wear.
In a market crowded with products that can often look remarkably similar, VALLON offers something genuinely different. The vintage aesthetic won’t be for everyone, but for riders looking for high-quality eyewear with a point of difference, both the Watchtowers and Ventures are well worth considering.
Pricing
