DrFranklin Athletic Thunder Photochromic Sunglasses — One Pair, Every Pyrenean Ride
Sunglasses might feel like minor kit, but after two weeks deep in the Pyrenees, I’ve learned this: the right pair makes the difference between a ride remembered for clarityor for squinting through disorienting light changes.
Enter the DrFranklin Athletic Thunder Photochromic Sunglasses. They were the wild card that quickly became my go-to one pair that effortlessly handled all the highs, lows, sun, and shade the mountains could throw.
DrFranklin in a Snapshot
DrFranklin Athletic is a brand that blends clean style with thoughtful engineering. The Thunder model sits at the intersection of form and function: sleek enough for daily wear, smart enough for alpine adventures.
These come with Smoke Revo photochromic lenses that automatically shift tint in response to light. They block UV rays, reduce glare, and enhance contrast, all critical when riding through mountain terrain and changing weather. What caught my attention as well: the frame is ultra-light TR90 plastic, flexible but sturdy, with rubber grips on the nose and temples. The wraparound 6C curvature means everything stays snug, wind and sun feel minimise , and worst airs are blocked from the sides.
The Pyrenean Trial: When the Real Test Happens
Here’s where it got interesting: I rode three iconic climbs wearing these shades: the famous Col du Tourmalet, pastoral Col d’Aspin, and rugged Col d’Aubisque.
Col du Tourmalet
Sunrise greeted us with pale light, shifting to glaring alpine glare near the summit. The Thunder lenses transitioned beautifully, smoothly darkening as the first bright snowfields appeared, and instantly lightening again into shaded sections.
Col d’Aspin
Shaded lanes, filtered sun, alternated through forested stretches. The glasses offered just enough tint change to stay visually grounded throughout, without drama or distraction.
Col d’Aubisque
This was the weather war. Fog, sunlight, cloud and a tunnel. The eyewear adapted in real-time. No delays, no tunnel vision. Just clickable clarity, from stone-strewn switchbacks to green-clad descents.
The visual difference? No more reaching to shade in instinct or taking fingers off handlebars to swap lenses mid-ride. Vision stayed balanced throughout.
Fit, Feel, and Fashion
Once you put them on, the Thunder frames seem to conspire with your head. They're featherweight and the rubber grip points keep them locked even when your brow's sweating and heart’s pumping. Zero sidestep or slip, even after hours. No pressure points either, days behind and no headaches, no marks. Style-wise, they walk the line between minimalist and sporty. Technical, for sure, but without shouting, perfect with both race kit and café chic.
Beyond Cycling — Everyday Versatility
These aren’t just for epic climbs. I’ve worn them running, walking, and even grocery shopping, every light environment adapts, and they never feel out of place. They’ve become my universal go-to, one pair that does it all.
Care & Long-Term Thoughts
These sunglasses held their composure post-trip, no sag, no scratches, no grip loss. Cleaning is simple: rinse, dry, microfiber cloth, repeat. Hard riding, washes at the camper and still sharp.
Pros & Considerations
| Pros | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Auto-adjusting tint for ever-changing light conditions | You should buy a pair...honestly. |
| Weightless fit with solid grip and no slipping | |
| Sharp, clear visual clarity in all environments | |
| Clean, versatile design that balances tech and everyday style |
Final Thoughts
If your rides wander from shaded groves to exposed summits, or anywhere light and terrain shift, I’d confidently say the DrFranklin Athletic Thunder are worth it. They simplify your kit, sharpen your experience, and help you ride with visual calm. One pair, every ride, especially when the road takes you through light and shade, sun and shadow.
Like the glasses you see? You can buy a set here:
Thunder Rimless Green / Green Revo
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