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On Test: Giro Havik, April 4, 2008
Taking on Goliath
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Giro leaped into the eyewear market earlier this year with a four-model portfolio touted as the next step in sunglass evolution. Cyclingnews technical editor James Huang tries them on for size to see how they fare.
The Giro Havik is the most bike-specific model in the lineup and certainly offers a compelling mix of draws: an interchangeable shield-type single lens bolstered by the well-respected Carl Zeiss stamp of approval, a multitude of useful tints, a hydrophobic Dura Clean hard coating and a so-called Super Fit nylon frame that is specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with helmets.
As promised, the Super Fit frame meshes perfectly with almost every helmet we tried. The relatively short and slightly downwardly curved earstems lock on (almost too) securely without running into any helmet retention system hardware and the well-shaped, medium-sized lens delivers good coverage while remaining fog-free in most situations (we have yet to find something that never fogs up, though).
The Zeiss-certified lens is an impressive bit of polycarbonate with superb clarity and lack of distortion that easily trounces the vast majority of single-lens competitors. Dare we even say it, Giro's True Sight lens geometry almost seems to rival Oakley's long-standing XYZ Optics which is duly impressive considering this is Giro's first stretch out of the gate.
About the only realm where Giro does fall slightly short, however, is the range of Havik offerings. There are six frame colors and seven lens tints but only one lens shape for now and no fit adjustments to accommodate wider or flatter faces. This may change, though, according to Giro senior brand manager Eric Richter: "As our eyewear program grows and we get the chance to work with a wider range of pro riders (Slipstream, Bissell and BMC riders) and consumers, the Havik - along with the rest of our line - will evolve to include more options for more riders."
Even so, the Giro Havik represents a very viable alternative to the big 'O' and the substantially lower price is absolutely a key selling feature. Performance-seeking consumers that can live with the very slight limitations will likely be as happy as Homer Simpson with an endless supply of donuts. For those that place a high priority on style and personalization, though, the king is still king but the bourgeoisie revolution is quickly gaining ground. Cake, anyone?
Price: Price: US$139-169 (depending on lens tint)
Pros: Super Fit frame fits perfectly with helmets, superb lens optics,
good range of lens tints, attainable price tag
Cons: Tight fit for wider heads, no fit variations for wider/flatter
faces, range of lens tints and frame colors not quite on par with industry leader
Cyclingnews rating: 
Photography
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Images by James Huang/Cyclingnews.com
- Giro jumps into the cycling eyewear market with four models including the single-lens Havik.
- Optical quality on our test sample is excellent and the Super Fit frame meshes perfectly with every helmet retention system we tried.
- Temple vents help prevent fogging although we still experienced a little in some particularl demanding conditions.
- The Havik offers a snug fit but it might be a little too snug for those with wider heads.
- Should we get used to seeing this logo on more eyewear in the future? Sounds like it.
