No of course they don’t, but the lightning bolt design and build quality did momentarily make me think the sound barrier wasn’t necessarily out of reach. This distinctive product creation from Aussie company Furore has been created for those who run fast or slow (cape not included).

 

Running in Australia generally means your melon is a target for the big yellow thing in the sky. It’s essential of course that we protect our precious soul-windows and there are a multitude of options available, depending on budget and taste.

Some of us are happy with five-buck petrol station specs that promise budget savings and cataracts. Others splurge (I know no one who would btw) and many maximise their usage at a rave with one fist pumping and the other filming the damn thing, but that’s a rant for another time.

Whichever way you butter your bread, most of us appreciate that protection is essential and we buy our sunglasses accordingly. Furore came onto the scene in 2022 to cater to folk who like to make a statement just as much as they like a quality product.

I was sent the Helios sunglasses to test out and here are my first impressions from pinging around the Forest of Dean in the UK in them.

 

Enter ‘EXPLORER’ at checkout on the Furore website for a whopping 20% off

Design and Build Quality

Kyle Bullock and Nathan McCallum started Furore to create something distinctive, high-performing, and durable for the trail and beyond, something they’ve most certainly achieved with the Helios.

The first thing you’ll notice about the Helios is the lightning bolt stems – I like the boldness and the sleek modern aesthetic, but for those who prefer a more subtle set of shades, this may not be your cup of tea.

 

 

Available in a variety of colours, the frames are lightweight with sturdy polycarbonate construction that feels robust in hand but sits almost weightlessly on your face. The flexible arms and adjustable nose pads ensure a snug and comfortable fit, even during high-impact activities like pinging around the forest on foot or pedal.

Furore’s attention to detail is evident. The frames feature a subtle textured finish that adds grip and resists scratches. Hinges are reinforced, promising longevity even with frequent use. Overall, the Helios feels like a premium product that can withstand the demands of an active, outdoor lifestyle.

 

Lens Performance

Furore lenses are anti-shatter and coated with 100% UV protection and exceptional clarity. During our field tests, the lenses effectively reduced glare in bright sunlight, particularly on the magnificent but rare occasion that the low-lying winter sun shines here in the UK.

 

 

The colour contrast enhancement is particularly noteworthy, making landscapes pop with vivid detail. However, the lenses are not polarised, which may be a deal breaker for people considering the Helios.

One standout feature is the interchangeable lens system. With a quick-release mechanism, swapping lenses for different light conditions and colours is simple.

Comfort, Fit, and Performance

Comfort is often a dealbreaker with sunglasses, but Furore’s Helios sunglasses excel here. The adjustable nose pads are coated with soft silicone, ensuring a soft, secure grip without pinching.

Similarly, the arms are designed to avoid pressure points, even during extended wear. I wore mine on some fairly aggressive downhill runs and there was no discomfort or movement down my nose.

The lenses remained fog-free and the frames stayed secure even during vigorous activities. They also handled a couple of accidental drops like a champ, showing no visible signs of damage.

 

Final Thoughts

Furore’s Helios sunglasses live up to their ambitious promises. They’re versatile, durable, and stylish – a rare trifecta in adventure eyewear.

While the price point might be on the higher side, the Helios’ performance and adaptability justify the investment. For Explorers who need reliable gear that transitions seamlessly from trail to café, the Helios are a worthy contender.

 

Want to grab a pair for your noggin? Enter ‘EXPLORER’ in the checkout on the Furore website for a whopping 20% off. 

 

Sunglasses, Hats, & Gifts For Trail Runners

Our reviewer was given this product for testing and was allowed to keep it afterwards – they could say whatever the heck they wanted in the review. Check out our Editorial Standards for more info on our approach to gear reviews.