KOO Open Sunglasses Black Matt
Whether you’re clearing show jumps, navigating technical eventing courses, or delivering precision in the dressage arena, clear vision and focus are non-negotiable. Enter KOO sunglasses—designed in Italy and equipped with premium Zeiss® lenses—offering the ideal combination of optical clarity, featherlight comfort, and secure fit for competitive riders.
Why KOO Sunglasses Excel in the Saddle
-
Wide field of vision – unobstructed awareness of surroundings
-
Anti-fog ventilation – helps keep lenses clear during intense rides
-
Featherlight fit – you’ll forget you’re wearing them
-
Helmet-ready stability – stays put even during gallops or drops
👓 Model Highlights
Supernova
KOO Supernova Sunglasses
-
Frameless, ultralight design (just 21 g) for full peripheral visibility
-
Zeiss® nylon toric lens: ultra-sharp optics with 100% UV protection
-
Ventilated, flexible temples + interchangeable nose pads = a secure, customisable fit
-
Available VLTs:
-
Green 23% (mid-light conditions)
-
Silver/Turquoise 11% (bright sun)
-
Cosmo
KOO Cosmo Sunglasses
-
Sleek lifestyle frame in sport-tough Grilamid® TR90
-
Zeiss® polycarbonate lenses; Black Matt version offers optional polarisation
-
Grippy temple tips and nose bridge ensure all-day hold
Open
-
Semi-rim frame (≈33 g) with airflow channels for fog prevention
-
Rotating temples + dual-adjustable rubber nose pads for helmet-friendly fit
-
Compatible with clear, tinted, and photochromic interchangeable lenses
KOO Open Sunglasses Blue Matt
What Is VLT—and Why Does It Matter?
VLT (Visible Light Transmission) indicates how much visible light a lens allows through:
VLT % | Category | Use Case |
---|---|---|
80–100% | 0 | Very light tint – indoors, safety |
43–80% | 1 | Low light – cloudy days, dusk/dawn |
18–43% | 2 | Medium tint – general use |
8–18% | 3 | Dark tint – full sun, open arenas |
3–8% | 4 | Very dark – extreme brightness |
🕶️ Tip: VLT ≠ UV protection. Even clear lenses can block 100% UVA/UVB if properly treated—always check for both.
Why Photochromic Lenses Are a Game-Changer for Riders
Photochromic lenses—also called transition lenses—automatically darken in sunlight and lighten in low UV or indoor conditions.
Top Benefits:
-
Auto-tint adjustment – No need to switch glasses mid-ride
-
Reduced eye strain – Ideal for shifting light (e.g. woods to open field)
-
100% UVA/UVB protection – Full-spectrum safety
-
One-pair simplicity – Especially helpful for prescription wearers
A Few Considerations:
-
May take ~30 seconds to darken, a few minutes to fully clear
-
Standard photochromics don’t activate behind most car windshields
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
How to Choose the Right Sunglasses for Equestrian Sports
When selecting your KOO sunglasses for riding, consider your discipline, light conditions, and helmet fit. Eventers and trail riders may prefer photochromic lenses or models with interchangeable tints to handle changing terrain and lighting. Show jumpers benefit from a wide field of view and anti-fog design during short, intense rounds. Dressage riders, who spend more time in consistent light, may prioritise lightweight comfort and non-slip grip to stay focused on precision.
People who have suffered a concussion in the past will benefit from full wrap around sunglasses that prevent any glare reaching the eye and causing migraines. Regardless of discipline, always look for 100% UVA/UVB protection, secure fit under a helmet, and lenses that reduce glare and eye fatigue without distorting colour or depth perception.
Final Thought: Smart Specs for Smart Riders
Whether you’re in the show ring, cross-country, or schooling at home, KOO sunglasses provide elite-level performance with Zeiss® clarity, helmet stability, and full UV protection. With models like Supernova, Cosmo, and Open, riders can choose the perfect fit and features for their discipline, lighting conditions, and riding style.
Ready to upgrade your vision in the saddle?
Let the sun shine—you’ve got it covered. ☀️🕶️
Find you next pair of favourite KOO sunglasses here and enjoy your KOO journey.
Looking for something different? You can find the entire KOO Sunglasses range here. Let us know what you like the look of and we’ll get them ordered!