Reviewed: 100% Hypercraft

100% Hypercraft Review

Starting at $155, 23g (as measured), 100percent.com

Italian-made (but San Diego-based) eyewear company 100% has always been a roadie-focused brand with super cutting-edge designs favored by the highly Euro. While the 100% Hypercraft is no exception to their style rule, this is also a pair of sunglasses that most triathletes could appreciate. Unlike the popular Speedcrafts, the Hypercrafts boast a frameless bottom and sides with only small coverage up top by the earpiece and nosepiece. And yet these minimalist frames still somehow seem to fit with 100%’s “maximum” attitude. In other words, these will definitely get you noticed from the outside, but from behind them, you’ll likely not notice very much. Super crisp lines on almost every surface are in direct contrast to the bulbous shape from POC’s and Bolle’s offerings, giving triathletes an alternative to the prevailing style over the last five years. Aerodynamically, there’s no proof behind it, but while other styles scream “coverage!” this pair screams speed—they just look fast. 

In terms of fit and feel, the crazy lightweight 100% Hypercraft sunglasses feel excellent either riding or running (but don’t tell roadies that!) with no bouncing and minimal weight on the face. While we found the earpieces a little sharp on the temples while riding, everyone’s head/helmet interaction is different, though it would be helpful if the earpieces were bendable, like the fantastic earpieces on the Bolles. Though they’re not exactly cheap, the lens clarity and quality are both very good with almost no distortion across the whole field of vision. We also liked the vents on the top and bottom of the lenses to help with air flow while climbing or running, though they didn’t let so much air in that descents felt sketchy. In terms of value, the 100% Hypercraft sunglasses also come with a clear lens, so you get a lot of good Italian bang for your North American buck.

Read the complete roundup of the hottest shades of 2020 here.