Product test
Quite expensive and (sadly) pretty good: React sports glasses
by Patrick Bardelli
All-new React Rev sport sunglasses: slightly higher price tag, slightly higher quality
27.3.2024
Translation: Katherine Martin
Pictures: Patrick Bardelli
What tops «the best sport sunglasses»? Rev, the latest eyewear from React. Compared to their predecessor, the sunglasses boast a number of comfort upgrades. The tried-and-tested technology used in the lenses, however, hasn’t changed.
In late November of every year, the sporting world gets together in Munich for the scene’s biggest trade fair, ISPO. There, industry giants and SMEs alike showcase their products. Swiss company React also hit the Bavarian capital to present its new sport sunglasses.
I’ve spent the last few months testing these new glasses in sunshine, fog, snow, rain and dry conditions. Here’s a round-up of how it went.
Why you don’t need the all-new React Rev
Let’s start off with the good news. If you already have the React Optray (the predecessor to the Rev) and are satisfied with them, you can safely click out of this article and do something else with your time.
I’ve linked my detailed review of that here:
If the Optray are a good fit for your face (as is the case for me), they’re all you’ll need in order to see well while biking or doing snow- or water sports.
Why you need the all-new React Rev
Here comes the bad news for your wallet. If you don’t already have a pair of React sports sunglasses or you aren’t entirely happy with the look of your current pair, the new Rev model is an expensive but brilliant option.
The glasses transition smoothly from protection category 2 to 4 (link in German), going from medium to dark to very dark tint. This means they can be used in the mountains too. Basically, the sunnier it is, the better they are.
According to the manufacturer, the technology in the glasses also works when you’re behind a car window. The lenses convert infrared radiation that’s not filtered by the pane of glass. What’s more, the glasses are designed to ensure faster reaction times, reducing your braking distance by up to 16 metres. Even at speeds of 80 km per hour. Since I don’t drive or have a suitable testing ground available, I wasn’t able to put this to the test.
Technical specs
In a nutshell
There’s good, there’s better and there’s Rev
I’m starting to run out of superlatives to describe React sunglasses. Whenever I deem something to be almost perfect, someone always pipes up to say it can’t be genuine. That it’s just paid marketing. With this in mind, I’ll quote my last review: «The manufacturer kindly provided me with these two models for me to review. There were no other ’favours’ from their side and, as always, no pressure whatsoever to write positively about the products. I’m impressed of my own free will.» That’s also the case now.
Since my previous review was published last year, I’ve coincidentally met three people who bought a pair of Optray sunglasses based on my verdict. All of them shared my opinion. However, «Swiss-made» comes at a price. At 339 francs, the Rev are fifty francs even more expensive than their predecessor. Are you inclined to spend that much money on sport sunglasses? If so, I’d highly recommend the Rev. If not, you’re sure to find a cheaper alternative in our range.
Pro
- made in Switzerland
- premium quality
- light-adaptive technology
- very comfortable to wear
Contra
- price
Patrick Bardelli
Senior Editor
Patrick.Bardelli@digitecgalaxus.chFrom radio journalist to product tester and storyteller, jogger to gravel bike novice and fitness enthusiast with barbells and dumbbells. I'm excited to see where the journey'll take me next.
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