Catlike Fusion Super Wing eyewear

The Fusion Super Wings form part of a wide range of cycling specific eyewear from Catlike. We have been ticking through the reviews since last summer with some Catlikes scoring pretty high. Unfortunately, a peculiar fit and poor eye protection mean the Fusion Super Wing just don't hit the mark.

Not all of us can afford Oakleys, and equally not all of us want Oakleys. Thankfully, the choice of cycling-specific sunglasses across a range of prices is expanding. Catlike carry an appealing price tag of around £75, making them a premium, Pro Tour associated brand for substantially less than other big names. What's more you can get a helmet to match, if you are that way inclined, completing your road look with style.

Sunglasses are one of the most important pieces of kit, and as much so in winter as summer. Over four hours on a sunless but cold and blustery winter's day it is just as important to look after your vision as it is riding in bright sunlight; same body part, different enemy. Lack of eye protection is unfortunately a major downfall of these sunglasses. The fit of the nose piece means the lenses sit too high, which not only looks peculiar but means about 30% of the lens is protecting your eyebrows, not your eyeballs. Due to a non-adjustable nose clip it is seriously worth checking the fit before purchase.

My gripes don't stop there. The arms of the frames are both pointed at the end, and the fit is slightly too tight for my head, despite only requiring a medium lid. Over the duration of a ride the Fusion Super Wings actually became quite uncomfortable. When taking them off, the arms firmly spring back into place. This means you can easily stab yourself in the eye with the ends of the frames. To double check this I gave these to a third party to try. Without mentioning my problems with the sunglasses he diagnosed exactly the same troubles within seconds. They can be removed without harm if you pull out the arms to guide them away from your face, but whilst riding and racing you are often in a situation where that is not possible. For me one handed operation is essential. I simply found this aspect dangerous.

Looks are subjective and will often divide opinion. I doubt it here. The Fusion Super Wing's large plastic clip-on sideburns are 'different' and completely unnecessary; more sci-fi than cycle-sport. A quick Google image search of the product will reveal no pictures of people actually wearing them. Interesting.

It's not all bad news for Catlike; there are some good features. The Fusion Super Wings come with a range of lens options, included in the price, and they are not too difficult to change, although not fully confidence-inspiring. The well-made storage zip-case is a nice feature too. The lenses and frames are well protected and easy to store without risk of scratching or damaging anything; plus convenient enough to chuck in a kit bag.

Verdict

Poor eye protection and tightly fitting frames - just not their finest effort.