REVIEW: POC goes big on SS21 Devour sunglasses

SUMMARY READ: A massive pair of shades aptly named the Devour. Features POC’s clarity lens technology, exceptional coverage, and is geared towards off and on-road (equally at home in either scenario). Adjustable temple lengths, easy swaps, Zeiss lenses, and a bright light spectrum star in this show. And they shine brightly.

USE CASES It’s stage 20 of the 2021 Giro D’Italia. We are roadside of the Splugenpass, spectating two-thirds on the way up the climb, now perched in city clothes, drinking a panache, and settling in to watch a little bike pedaling. Sunglasses on, a passerby shouts out, “now those are some big cycling shades.” Damn straight.

When the Devour frame was released, our reaction, coupled with the Internets’, was that POC broke the mold for oversized eyewear, following a trend blazed by 100%, Oakley, Smith, and others. Measuring nearly three inches top to bottom and six and one quarter inches side to side, yes, these are absolutely massive and equally divisive.

The undeniable constant however is the quality POC belts out with each collection (owing to their lens partners + in-house design?). In forests and brightly lit mountain passes (the latter not being their intended playground), they are so overwhelmingly capable. And their functionality - with three-tiered temple adjustment which creates complete customization - they are exceptionally good.

After 6 weeks of abuse, the Hydrogen White frame is showing some signs of wear (not as bright white anymore), but they are still rather resplendent. The MTB Silver Mirror Lens, while rated Cat 2 for light, is much more versatile than described, IOP.

Roadside atop the Albulapass. Even in bright light, these shades were great uphill and on descents.

ARE THESE SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES? Yes, good question. These are very big sunglasses that definitely favour large faces. But never so much so that they look too big or out of place; the vibe is more performance and protection, not hilarity and irony. You will love them if you love the general Scandinavian POC aesthetic, a cool day out on the bike without convention, or just a great all-around sunglass to transition from road to trail with style to spare.

Comes with a clear lens for extra low light and trail rides. Priced at SFr. 299.00 and available in seven different frame colours and various lens types.