Melon Optics Alleycat Review
Summary
The Melon Optics Alleycat sunglasses are designed to give mountain bikers protection when riding in constantly changing light conditions. The photochromic lens transitions smoothly between different light conditions, so you only need one lens.
These glasses are known for their sturdy build quality, scratch-resistant lenses, and robust frames. Their coverage also provides excellent protection for your eyes.
They have a sporty, modern, and edgy design while being incredibly lightweight and comfortable.
Pros
- Photochromic lenses adjust to changing brightness with noticeable speed.
- Wide coverage keeps your eyes protected from debris and glare.
- A lightweight frame reduces pressure on your nose and ears.
- Grippy contact points help these glasses stay put on rough terrain.
- The sturdy construction means they are resistant to the odd drop or knock.
- Good ventilation avoids fogging, even during sweaty climbs.
- Customisable to suit your style and needs
Cons
- The styling might not appeal to more traditional riders.
- High price could deter those on a strict budget.
- Some riders report that lens transitions may seem too dark or too light for some conditions.
User Review
( votes)
After a recent ride in one of my local forests, I thought I’d give the Melon Optics Alleycat photochromic sunglasses a try.
I don’t know about you, but the temporary blindness from the constant changes in lighting when mountain biking through trees frustrates me and makes me nervous. Going from bright sunlight into dark forests can often mean you can’t see the details in the trail ahead, especially if your sunglasses have a dark lens.
On the other hand, emerging from the forest into bright sunlight can leave you squinting until your eyes have adjusted. So, I wanted to see how effective photochromic lenses are for mountain biking.
Here’s my review of the Melon Optics Alleycat photochromic sunglasses.
What Is The Melon Optics Alleycat Sunglasses?
The Melon Optics Alleycat sunglasses are specifically designed for mountain bikers.
They don’t provide as much coverage as their goggles, such as the Diablo, but their wide and almost wrap-around shape offers lots of protection. This means you don’t get dust and mud flicking into your eyes.
You have a range of customisable options when you buy our Melon Optics Alleycats. For example, you can select a range of colours for the frame, nose pieces, and lens types. I chose the photochromic lens that automatically shifts its tint as lighting changes.
As the Alleycats are designed specifically for mountain biking, they are incredibly durable. They also have an adjustable nose piece and temple tips for enhanced stability on bumpy terrain.
Features
One of the main highlights is the photochromic lens technology. However, there are other lens options if you don’t like the idea of photochromic lenses.
But the way the tint shifts depending on ambient UV levels means you don’t need to carry different lenses according to the conditions.
Durability comes from the frame’s TR90 material, which is known for its solid strength-to-weight ratio. That means the glasses can take punishment without feeling too heavy on your face. Additionally, the ventilation channels along the top edge help minimise condensation on the lens.
An anti-fog coating adds extra clarity when you’re sweating up tough climbs. Melon Optics also offers lens upgrades or replacements, although some people have reported that availability can be limited.
However, I have ordered replacement lenses for my Melon Optics Diablo goggles with no issues.
Performance
On the trail, the Melon Optics Alleycats are great. They are super lightweight and comfortable, almost to the point where you forget they are there.
I have never tried mountain bike glasses with photochromic lenses before, and I am impressed by this lens. The lens’ tint shifts relatively fast, sparing you that moment of temporary blindness.
You’ll appreciate the rapid change when riding from bright open trails to tree-covered singletrack. Some riders have reported they are too dark in heavily wooded areas, but I have yet to experience this. I think most people will find them more than good enough for most moderate-lighting transitions.
In the past, I’ve worn mountain bike glasses that constantly slip down my nose. This isn’t a problem I’ve had with the Melon Optics Alleycats. During intense descents, they resist slipping thanks to the rubber grips on the nose and temples.
I’ve only ridden in nice weather with these glasses so far, but judging by my experience with the Diablo goggles, I’m confident they won’t fog up too much. This is because Melon has given the Alleycats excellent built-in ventilation that circulates air effectively.
I’ve also found that the lens clarity remains consistent, even after extended use. On top of this, I’ve found the coverage to be excellent, preventing dust or bugs from sneaking through.
Overall, they perform confidently, matching the expectations set by their design.
Living With Melon Optics Alleycat Photochromic Sunglasses
The Melon Optics Alleycats are versatile enough for all kinds of rides. They are my go-to eyewear when I’m not smashing downhill trails. So, I wear them for e-bike rides, light enduro, and fitness rides when the terrain isn’t so techy; basically, for any ride, I don’t wear my full-face helmet.
I actually bought the Alleycat bundle, which comes with a nice hard case, a microfibre case, a clear lens and another darker lens of my choice. In hindsight, I probably didn’t need to do this, but at least I’ve got a couple more lenses if something happens to my photochromic one.
It’s important to look after the lens. Even though the lens is tough, it will scratch if you handle it roughly. Cleaning these glasses is straightforward: a mild rinse and wipe with a soft cloth. You’re set.
It took me a couple of wears to grow to like the look of the Melon Optics Alleycats. This is because they are very different and bolder than anything I’ve worn before.
They are customisable when you buy, allowing you to choose the colour of their components. You can really go to town with the design with bright colours and funky patterns. I’m glad I didn’t go silly and went with a reasonably subtle design with a turquoise frame and grey nosepiece.
Final Verdict
I really like the Melon Optics Alleycat Photochromic sunglasses. I’ve grown to like how they look, but I’m more impressed with their performance. I like how I can ride in and out of sunlight without fear of temporary blindness, especially when the trail has some sneaky rocks and routes.
The secure, lightweight build provides confidence on rugged terrain, and you can focus on your ride rather than being annoyed by your glasses constantly slipping down your nose.
Although their edgy looks might not please every taste, you can dumb them down by speccing subtle colours. If you dislike switching lenses mid-ride, these glasses offer a welcome one-lens solution.
They do come at a premium price, which might deter budget-conscious riders. But the performance and versatility often justify the investment for serious mountain bikers.
Tom Fortune has been reviewing cycling products for several years from his home in the French Alps. As the owner of mtb-threads.com, he mainly reviews mountain bike products but also reviews road cycling products independently.
